Haugsvarden Vandring

This hike starting from the Hereiane rest area is a real hidden gem. This trail is mostly only known to locals and there is a good chance you will enjoy this hike without seeing any other hikers.

The entire hike has great views as almost all of the trail goes across bedrocks with very few trees. Choose if you just want to go up to the Hereiane Upper Viewpoint or if you want to continue onwards to Haugsvarden. From Haugsvarden you have great views of the Hardangerfjord and Herand village.

By car
Hereiane rest area is located between Jondal and Utne along Norwegian Scenic Route Hardanger. Follow road 550 and the drive from Jondal takes only about 10 minutes. From Utne, it’s about 40 minutes.

By public transportation
You can take the local bus from Jondal or from Utne to Hereinane bus stop. However, there are only a few departures per day so make sure to check the timetable before you go.

Starting from Hereiane rest area walk along the road towards Utne. After a few hundred meters you will see a small gravel road with a sign towards Haugsvarden. The trailhead is clearly marked and the trail follows the ice-scoured rocks upwards. Look for red markers on rocks and cairns as you move upwards.

Just a few hundred meters into the hike the trail takes a right turn and follows along a light pine forest for about 100 meters. It then continues to ascend up the bedrock and very soon you can see all the way up to Hereiene Upper Viewpoint. Follow the marked trail up to the viewpoint. 

From the viewpoint, you can continue on to Haugsvarden. The trail starts by descending a bit from the viewpoint. The terrain changes a bit now and you will hike through some small patches of forest and some marshes. Head further up and you will reach a small pond. The trail now goes around this pond and veers left as it closes in on Haugsvarden. 

• It is not recommended to hike this trail if there is fog or if the ground is wet. The trail is fairly steep and will be very slippery if wet. 

• Toilets at the Hereiane rest area