A small Norwegian town at the southern tip of Sørfjorden, known for its industrial past and access to Trolltunga cliff. Gateway to Folgefonna glacier hiking trails.
Odda sits at the southern end of Sørfjord in western Norway, where mountain peaks rise 1,500 meters from the water's edge. You can hike to Trolltunga, a rock formation jutting out 700 meters above Ringedalsvatnet lake, or visit the twin cascades of Låtefossen waterfall. The town served as a filming location for Netflix's Ragnarok series and gives you access to the Buarbreen glacier, where you can walk on ancient ice with experienced guides.
Getting to Odda
You can reach Odda by car from Bergen in about 3 hours, or from Oslo in 6 hours. Regular bus services connect the town with Bergen, running twice daily. If you're driving from Bergen, take note of the ferry schedules across Hardangerfjord, as these might affect your journey time. The town sits at the intersection of two major roads: the E134 highway and National Road 13, making it accessible from multiple directions.
Hiking to Trolltunga
The Trolltunga hike starts from Skjeggedal, a short drive from Odda's center. The trail stretches 27 kilometers round trip with an 800-meter elevation gain, typically taking 10-12 hours to complete. During high season (June-September), shuttle buses run regularly from Odda to the trailhead. The hike demands proper preparation - you'll need sturdy boots, weather-appropriate clothing, and enough food and water for a full day in the mountains.
The Valley of Waterfalls
A 15-minute drive south of Odda takes you to Oddadalen. Here, two separate streams of Låtefossen fall 165 meters before joining beneath an old stone bridge. You can walk along paths connecting seven major waterfalls within a 10-kilometer stretch, getting close enough to feel the spray from the rushing water.
Glacier Adventures
The Buarbreen glacier, part of the larger Folgefonna ice field, lies just 15 minutes from town. A three-hour round trip hike leads you through mountain terrain to the glacier's edge. During summer months, you can join guided glacier walks with all necessary equipment included. In the nearby Folgefonna National Park, you'll find additional hiking routes and can even go skiing in summer.
Where to Stay and Eat
You can choose from traditional hotels, guesthouses, and camping sites in Odda. At the Trolltunga Hotel restaurant, you'll find local dishes including salmon and venison stew, along with house-made cider. For quick meals, stop at Odda Grillen, which appeared as a filming location in the Ragnarok series.
Industrial Heritage
In the early 20th century, Odda transformed from a tourist town into an industrial center. The zinc smelting plant, Boliden Odda, appeared in the Netflix series Ragnarok as the fictional Jutul Industries. Visit the Norwegian Museum of Hydroelectric Power and Industry to learn about this period through exhibits and guided tours.
Weather and Timing
Summer temperatures (June-August) average around 13°C, making it the best time for hiking. Winter temperatures drop to -5°C, limiting hiking possibilities. Rain occurs frequently throughout the year, so check weather forecasts carefully when planning your activities.
