About This Hike
Bondhusdalen is an easy valley walk in Mauranger, Kvinnherad, from the Sunndal parking area to Bondhusvatnet below Folgefonna. The historic Isveien gravel road follows the Bondhuselva through the valley and gains only about 135 metres. It is around 2.5 km each way, normally taking about two hours return, and is suitable for families, sturdy prams and powerful wheelchairs in good conditions. The lake mirrors the surrounding peaks and ice on calm days. Paid parking is about 500 metres from Fv551; use the marked spaces, follow any parking attendant’s instructions and pay before setting out. Bondhusvatnet is a local drinking-water source, so swimming is not allowed and camping must follow local rules, including keeping well away from the water. The main gravel road to the lake and picnic area remains the easy option. The path beyond the lake towards Bondhusbrea is less developed and may be subject to temporary restrictions; follow all signs and barriers, particularly around the river, delta and glacier area.
Highlights
- ✓ Bondhus glacier views
- ✓ Turquoise glacial lake
- ✓ Lush valley scenery
- ✓ Family-friendly trail
Getting There
Paid parking at the entrance to Bondhusdalen, about 500 m from Fv551. Park only in marked spaces, pay on arrival, and use the trailhead toilet during its opening period.
Municipality: Kvinnherad (Sunndal), Vestland
Trailhead: 60.110030, 6.270900 · Open in Google Maps
Before You Go
Bondhusdalen is the easy gravel-road walk to Bondhusvatnet, not a glacier hike. Make the lake and picnic area your destination unless current local signage says otherwise. In 2026, police barriers were put in place beyond Holgersneset at the inner end of the lake because of a potential glacier-outburst hazard; the valley walk remained open, but the restricted area is not a viewpoint detour. Read the latest notice at the trailhead, keep children away from the river and delta, and do not plan on swimming in the drinking-water lake.
Information checked: September 2026, against Kvinnherad municipality's current Bondhusdalen access and natural-hazard information
⚠️ Safety Notes
- The river and delta at the far end of Bondhusvatnet can be affected by sudden glacier-related flooding. Stay clear of any marked risk area and follow all signs and barriers.
- Stay on the gravel road and marked trails, and supervise children near the river and lake.
- Do not swim in Bondhusvatnet, which is a local drinking-water source. Camp only in accordance with local rules and away from the water.
- Beyond the lake, the path towards Bondhusbrea is rougher and less developed. Keep a safe distance from the glacier front, where ice can fall without warning.
- Keep dogs on a leash around grazing animals and carry all rubbish home.