Bondhusvatnet is a stunning, glacial-fed lake in Folgefonna national park,which is located in western Norway near Sundal. It is at the height of 190 metres from sea level in Bhundusdalen valley,Kvinnherad municipality and 20 minutes away from Odda and 2.5 hours from Bergen. This lake possesses surreal turquoise green water. The colour of this lake’s green to make it worth watching and it produces when the glacier passes over the rocks, it grinds them into particles which float over the water and scatter the sunlight to glow the lake’s aquamarine.
The lake is a designated drinking water source for the locals. Swimming and bathing are banned in this lake to protect it from contaminating pollutants like sunscreen, soaps, and human waste.
The Isvegen Trail for Hiking
Isvegen is the path you follow and literally “THE ICE ROAD”. This path is considered an easy walk for families and kids. This route carries some scenic views of Bondhusvatnet lake and it leads towards scenic Bondhusbreak glacier arm of the larger Folgefonna glacier. Historically It was built in 1863 with a primary goal to haul ice blocks cut from the glacier Folgefonna to the fjord for export purposes across Europe. The same route ice-cutters have been using since 160 years.
Isvegen Trail lead to the two routes for incredible hiking experience:
Route 1 — To the Bondhusvatnet lake (4.6 km return) This route takes about an hour to get Bondhusvatnet lake. Fully constructed flat road easily penetrable for stroller and wheelchairs with an altitude of about 60m to 190m.
Route 2 — To the moraine below Bondhusbreen (8.6 km return): This path continue along the far shore of the Pyttelva waterfall (there’s a river crossing with no bridge, so you may expect cold and numb feet). The trail enters forested terrain and climbs toward the glacial moraine. This part is rougher and less-marked. May take 4 hours to climb with proper footwear.
Get to Bondhusvatnet Lake
By car: Drive to Sundal village through the E134 highway and then follow local signs toward Bondhus. The highway is narrow with oncoming traffic and 30 km/h speed limit. The parking lot at the trailhead is sizable but fills up on summer weekends.
- From Bergen: ~2.5 hours by car via E16 and ferry, or the E134 mountain route
- From Odda: ~20 minutes
- From Rosendal: ~1 hour — you’ll pass Furebergfossen waterfall on the way, worth a stop
Best Time to Visit to Bondhusvatnet Lake
June to September is the ideal window to snow free and most accessible time to hike to Bondhusvatnet lake. While snow remains on the upper valley well in May and by October the light drops fast and temperatures get cold.
- June: Quieter, lush with fresh growth, waterfalls at their most powerful from snowmelt.
- July–August: Peak season. Arrive before 10am or after 4pm to avoid crowds at the lakeshore.
Practical Tips to Consider while your Visit
- Pay parking immediately on arrival — the receipt needs to be visible in your car window.
- Toilets are only available at the parking lot, nothing on the trail.
- The path maybe be soft and muddy near the lake, especially early season. So, it is highly advisable to wear waterproof shoes.
Weather in Hardanger turns fast. A waterproof layer is madatory, even in July.
- Olaløo Farm Restaurant, near the trailhead, serves local food during summer (late June to early August). Book ahead outside those months.
- Dogs must stay on leash for the entire route.