7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Bergen

Bergen, known for its picturesque harbor and historic charm, is not only a haven for digital nomads seeking a vibrant city life but also a gateway to some of Norway's most beautiful natural landscapes and unique destinations. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, dive into the local culture, or find a quiet retreat away from your screen, there's a weekend getaway near Bergen that's perfect for you. From the most popular spots to hidden gems off the beaten track, here are seven destinations that offer a refreshing break from your work routine.

Flåm

Flåm is a must-visit for anyone living in Bergen, offering breathtaking views of the fjords and mountains. This small village is famous for the Flåm Railway, one of the steepest train lines in the world. The journey provides stunning panoramas of the surrounding nature. Once there, you can enjoy activities like fjord cruises, kayaking, and hiking. The Stegastein Viewpoint is also a popular spot, providing a dramatic overlook of the landscape.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Flåm from Bergen is by train, which takes about 2.5 hours. You can catch a scenic ride on the Bergen Railway to Myrdal and then transfer to the Flåm Railway.

Travel Tip: Don't miss out on the Rallarvegen bike ride, which takes you along an old construction road with historical significance and stunning natural beauty.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Flåmsbrygga Hotel, known for its brewery and incredible fjord views, or the Fretheim Hotel, which combines historical elegance with modern comfort.

Where to Eat: Aegir BrewPub is not only famous for its craft beer but also for its Viking-inspired architecture and hearty local dishes like the traditional "Viking plank."

Hardangerfjord

The Hardangerfjord region is renowned for its fruit orchards, majestic waterfalls, and cultural experiences. In spring, the blossoming fruit trees are a sight to behold. You can visit the Hardangervidda Nature Centre, hike to the Trolltunga rock formation, or explore the Vøringsfossen waterfall. The region is also rich in cultural heritage, with opportunities to learn about traditional crafts and music.

How to Get There: You can reach Hardangerfjord by car or bus from Bergen in approximately 2 hours, making it an easy weekend trip.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit during the fruit season to taste the locally produced apples, cherries, and plums, which are said to be some of the best in the world.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Ullensvang offers a luxurious stay with an indoor pool and views of the fjord, while the Hardanger Hotel provides a more budget-friendly option.

Where to Eat: The Utne Hotel, one of the oldest hotels in Norway, offers a historical dining experience with a menu that highlights local ingredients.

Rosendal

Rosendal is a charming village that boasts the only Barony in Norway, complete with a beautiful rose garden and an impressive manor house. The surrounding mountains and the nearby Folgefonna glacier offer great hiking opportunities. The village also hosts cultural events and concerts throughout the year, making it a vibrant place to visit.

How to Get There: The fastest way to get to Rosendal from Bergen is by express boat, which takes about 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Barony's rose garden during the summer months when the flowers are in full bloom.

Where to Stay: Rosendal Turisthotell is a cozy option with a homely feel, and the Rosendal Fjordhotel offers stunning views of the fjord.

Where to Eat: The Baroniet Rosendal Avlsgård & Fruehus is known for its exquisite meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients and offers a historical setting for your dining experience.

Voss

Voss is the adventure capital of Norway, offering year-round activities such as skiing, white-water rafting, and skydiving. The town also hosts the annual Ekstremsportveko (Extreme Sports Week), which is the largest sport and music festival of its kind. For a more relaxed experience, you can enjoy the beautiful Vangsvatnet lake or visit the Voss Folk Museum.

How to Get There: Voss is easily accessible by train from Bergen, with a journey time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting in winter, don't miss the chance to ski at the Voss Resort, which offers slopes suitable for all levels.

Where to Stay: The Fleischer's Hotel is a historic hotel with a unique, old-world charm and modern amenities, including an indoor pool.

Where to Eat: Tre Brør Café & Bar is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious homemade burgers.

Modalen

Modalen is a lesser-known gem, perfect for digital nomads looking for tranquility and a chance to disconnect. This small municipality is nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains and offers excellent opportunities for fishing, hiking, and kayaking. The Mostraumen fjord cruise is a great way to explore the area's natural beauty.

How to Get There: The journey to Modalen from Bergen involves a combination of bus and ferry and takes approximately 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit the Modalen Museum to learn about the local history and culture, which is deeply connected to the surrounding nature.

Where to Stay: Modalen Resort provides comfortable accommodations with stunning views of the landscape, and they offer activities like guided hikes and fishing trips.

Where to Eat: The Mo Laksegard is not only a place to stay but also offers a restaurant with a menu featuring local salmon and other regional specialties.

Østerøy

Østerøy is an island just a short drive from Bergen, known for its rural charm and traditional Norwegian culture. It's a great place to experience the quiet countryside, with activities like hiking, fishing, and visiting local farms. The island is also home to several historical sites, including the Havråtunet farm cluster, which is protected by the Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage.

How to Get There: Østerøy is accessible by car from Bergen, with a journey that includes a short ferry ride and takes about 1 hour in total.

Travel Tip: Explore the island's many marked trails for a chance to see some of Norway's traditional farm landscapes and stunning natural vistas.

Where to Stay: There are several cozy bed and breakfasts on the island, such as the Østerøy Minihotell, which offers a comfortable stay in a peaceful setting.

Where to Eat: The local café, Kafé Krydder, serves homemade cakes and light meals, and is a perfect spot to relax after exploring the island.

Solund

Solund is an archipelago off the coast of Norway, offering a unique escape for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. It's the westernmost municipality in Norway and is known for its rugged coastline, rich birdlife, and excellent boating opportunities. You can explore the islands by kayak or join a guided boat tour to discover hidden coves and watch the sunset over the North Sea.

How to Get There: To reach Solund, take a bus from Bergen to Rysjedalsvika, then a ferry to the islands. The total travel time is around 4 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit the Utvær Lighthouse, Norway's westernmost point, for an unforgettable view and a sense of the area's maritime history.

Where to Stay: Solund Leileghetshotell offers comfortable apartments with sea views, and the Solund Rorbuferie provides traditional fisherman's cabins for an authentic stay.

Where to Eat: The local eatery, Solund Mat, prides itself on serving fresh seafood dishes and other local delicacies in a cozy, welcoming environment.