If you're dreaming of a getaway that involves raging rapids, dramatic landscapes, and the kind of outdoor adventures that make you feel more alive, we’ve got you. Welcome to Voss, our hometown: Norway’s adventure capital.
With whitewater rafting, mountain hiking, waterfall walks, and winter skiing, Voss in Norway is a year-round outdoor base for any level of experience.
This comprehensive guide covers the best outdoor activities, practical tips, and insider recommendations to help you plan the ultimate adventure getaway to Voss.
Whitewater Rafting on the Raundal River near Voss
One of the top things to do in Norway is whitewater rafting and for good reason. The surrounding rivers in Voss deliver the perfect mix of breathtaking scenery and thrilling rapids. It’s home to the Raundal River, one of the country’s most exciting whitewater spots.
Whether you're new to river rafting in Voss (or anywhere else) or a seasoned paddler, guided rafting trips cover the full range: Class II-III sections for beginners through to Class IV runs that require real technique.
Why Voss is different:
- The water is unbelievably clear, straight from snowmelt and glacier-fed sources.
- The scenery makes you want to pause mid-rapid, if only you could.
- It's the perfect mix of technical challenge and pure fun.
- The guides here are seasoned pros who know every eddy and bend. You're in good hands.
Local tip: Spring snowmelt makes May and early June the best time for high water and fast rides. Book your rafting trip ahead, spots fill quickly during peak season.
Looking for something slightly different? Try tandem kayaking, where you sit in the front while a guide navigates from behind. It’s a thrilling way to explore whitewater without needing prior experience.
What to Expect on the River
Getting geared up: We invest in high-quality wetsuits to ensure you stay warm and cosy during your adventure.
A typical day on the water isn’t just about the rapids, it’s a full adventure.
- Gear up: No need to bring your own wetsuit or helmet, everything is provided.
- Safety briefing: Your guide will walk you through all the basic commands. Yes, you’ll remember “Get down!” when it counts.
- The ride: Expect a few hours of paddling, swimming, laughing, and conquering rapids with names like “Washing Machine” and “Thor’s Hammer.”
- The extras: Swim stops, shared jokes, the adrenaline high after nailing a rapid, these moments are just as memorable as the whitewater itself.
Local tip: Don’t skip the post-raft hangout by the river. It’s a great time to relax, swap stories with your group, and take in the mountain air.
Waterfalls Near Voss, Norway: Three Worth the Detour
Tvindefossen waterfall: When it comes to waterfalls, Norway goes big—roaring, breathtaking, and straight out of a postcard.
Voss is surrounded by some of Norway’s most spectacular waterfalls, all within a short drive or cycle from town. We're talking massive water shows that'll make your jaw drop. Here are three that stand out:
Tvindefossen – Easy Access, Big Views
Just 20 minutes from Voss, this 152-meter cascade is easy to reach and even easier to love. You can drive right up, walk a few steps, and be face-to-face with one of the region’s most iconic falls. It’s a great stop for those short on time or traveling with family.
Local tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and catch the waterfall in soft golden light for the best photos.
Skjervsfossen – Off the Beaten Track
This double waterfall is about half an hour from Voss and less crowded than some of the others. A series of pathways and viewing platforms lets you explore from different angles.
Local tip: Don’t skip the rest stop here, it’s not your average bathroom. One side of the building is all glass and looks directly out onto the surrounding forest and water.
Cycling suggestion: Combine Tvindefossen and Skjervsfossen into one scenic bike loop. The road curves like a snake through the valley, and the views are worth every uphill climb.
Bordalsgjelet Gorge – A Hidden Gem
This is more of a gorge than a single waterfall, but it’s one of our favorite close-to-town walks. A well-maintained path takes you along the edge of a deep canyon with water rushing below.
Local tip: It’s especially dramatic after rain when the water is higher. Wear good shoes, it can be slick underfoot.
Outdoor Activities in Voss Beyond the River
Voss is the kind of place where you can hike a mountain in the morning and kayak a river by afternoon. Its terrain is wild, varied, and made for exploring.
Voss mountain vista: The view after hiking up one of Voss's trails – worth every drop of sweat
Hiking in Voss: Trails for Every Type of Trekker
Whether you're after an easy lakeside walk or a challenging mountain summit, Voss has it all. The area offers guided hiking tours that get you off the tourist path and into lesser-known landscapes.
A hike to Mt. Oksen in Voss offers an exceptional hiking experience with an impressive payoff for your effort. Reaching the top at 1241m, you are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Samlafjorden, Sørfjorden, Eidfjorden, and Granvinsfjorden, as well as panoramic vistas of the mountain ridge surrounding Voss and Norway's third largest glacier, Folgefonna.
Local tip: Some of the best trails are on private land, accessible only through local guides. Booking a tour gives you access to places most visitors never see.
Summer Highlights:
- Zipline and high ropes park: A thrilling way to experience the forest canopy near town.
- Mountain biking: Choose from relaxed valley rides or intense downhill trails.
- Tandem kayaking: A great way to test the rapids if you're new to paddling but want the full thrill.
Voss: Norway’s Extreme Sports Hub
Voss is the kind of place where you can hike a mountain in the morning and kayak a river by afternoon. For water activities in Norway, the range here runs from lake SUP and kayak rentals to canyoning and guided fjord tours, all within 30 minutes of the train station.
Ekstremsportveko: The World’s Biggest Extreme Sports Festival
Every June, Voss hosts Ekstremsportveko, the world’s largest extreme sports festival. Athletes from around the globe gather here to compete in skydiving, BASE jumping, whitewater kayaking, paragliding, longboarding, climbing, and more. It’s an epic week of action, music, and adventure culture.
Tip: Book accommodation early, this event draws a big crowd!
Skydiving in Voss
With stunning views over fjords and mountains, Skydive Voss offers one of Europe’s most scenic jumps. No experience? No problem. Tandem skydives are available for beginners, while seasoned jumpers can join group formations.
Indoor Skydiving at VossVind
Try skydiving in a wind tunnel at VossVind, it's perfect for all ages and weather conditions. It’s also where pro skydivers train, but anyone can book a flight.
Other Must-Try Outdoor Sports
Voss is packed with ways to get outside and get moving:
- BASE jumping from nearby cliffs
- Longboarding down winding mountain roads
- Paragliding over the valley
- Climbing and bouldering
- Fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Lake Vangsvatnet
Winter Adventures in Voss
When the snow falls, the adrenaline doesn’t stop.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Head to Voss Resort or Myrkdalen. Both offer slopes for beginners and off-piste runs for seasoned pros.
- Snowshoeing: Join a guided snowshoe tour along old trapper trails through quiet forests.
- Backcountry Skiing: With an experienced guide, venture beyond the resort and into untouched alpine terrain.
Local tip: Myrkdalen tends to have more reliable snow earlier and later in the season compared to Voss Resort.
Explore more adventure trips ↗️
Planning Your Voss Adventure: What to Know
Where to Stay
Voss offers a full range of accommodations, from hostels and mountain cabins to boutique hotels. For easy access to tours and transport, staying in the center of town is your best bet.
Getting Around
A rental car gives you the freedom to explore the waterfalls and surrounding valleys at your own pace. Local buses and trains are also reliable for day trips.
What to Pack
- Quick-dry clothing for water activities
- Water shoes or sandals that stay secure
- A windbreaker or waterproof jacket
- A waterproof phone pouch or GoPro if you want to capture the action
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips
A few things we always tell visitors before they come:
- Book rafting and hikes early in summer, it can get busy, especially on weekends.
- Renting a car makes it easier to explore the surrounding areas, especially waterfalls.
- Where to stay: Voss has everything from hostels to boutique cabins and mountain lodges.
- What to pack: Quick-dry clothes, warm layers, proper hiking shoes, and a waterproof camera or phone case.
When to Come
- April–June: Best for rafting and strong river conditions.
- July–August: Warmest weather and all outdoor activities running.
- September–October: Fewer crowds, fall colors, and calmer conditions on the river.
- December–March: Snow season, great for skiing and winter activities.
Things You Need to Know for Your First Trip To Voss
IS WHITE WATER RAFTING in Voss SUITABLE FOR COMPLETE BEGINNERS?
White water rafting in Voss can mean two separate experiences. The beginner route covers Class II-III rapids with a guide managing all navigation; no specialist equipment or prior experience is required. The advanced route covers Class IV and suits paddlers with experience.
If you're visiting with family, keep in mind that white water rafting in Voss, Norway has a typical minimum age of around seven on beginner tours.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RIVER RAFTING AND TANDEM KAYAKING in Voss?
River rafting in Voss puts you in a shared raft with a group and a guide steering from the back. Tandem kayaking puts you in the front of a two-person kayak while the guide controls from behind. Both run on the Raundal River.
Rafting is a better pick for groups and first-timers who want more of a social experience. Go for tandem kayaking if you don't mind the more physical paddling.
WHICH OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES in Voss REQUIRE ADVANCE BOOKING?
Rafting, canyoning, paragliding, guided hikes, and backcountry ski tours all need advance booking, especially in July and August and around Ekstremsportveko, Norway's extreme sports festival, in June.
Some outdoor activities in Voss that are walk-up friendly are the gondola rides and the Lønahorgi trail system. Please be aware that walk-up availability drops sharply on weekends regardless of season.
WHICH WATERFALL NEAR VOSS, NORWAY IS the BEST FOR FAMILIES to visit?
Tvindefossen is the most practical waterfall near Voss, Norway for a family visit: 20 minutes from town, direct road access, and a short flat walk to the viewpoint.
Skjervsfossen will work for you if you have older children; multiple viewing platforms and a glass-walled rest stop make the 30-minute drive worthwhile. Bordalsgjelet Gorge is the closest walk to town but make sure to bring proper footwear on wet rock.
WHICH WATER ACTIVITIES IN NORWAY CAN YOU DO FROM VOSS YEAR-ROUND?
Not many.
Kayak and SUP rentals on Lake Vangsvatnet run spring through autumn.
Whitewater rafting runs April through September, peaking in May and June. Canyoning operates through summer.
In winter, Voss shifts from kayaking and paddleboarding to snowshoe trips and ski tours, but select fjord kayaking dates on Nærøyfjord run year-round depending on conditions.
Your Voss Adventure Starts Here
We’ve lived and worked in Voss for years, and what keeps us here is the balance of nature, adventure, and everyday life. It’s not flashy but it doesn’t need to be. The rivers, trails, and waterfalls speak for themselves.
If you’re someone who enjoys being outdoors, trying something new, or just seeing a different side of Norway, we think you’ll feel right at home here too.
Want help planning your trip? Reach out to local guides, check tour availability, or just stop by the tourism center when you arrive. We're always happy to share our favorite spots.
What are you still doing here? Norway's rivers are calling your name!
Book Your Voss Adventure Today