The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Bergen

There are over 180 family-friendly hiking routes around Bergen, with more than 110 of them rated as easy, making them suitable for various ages and skill levels. These trails offer a wonderful way to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

Bergen, known as the 'Gateway to the Fjords,' is surrounded by seven mountains, offering a unique blend of accessible urban trails and stunning natural beauty. Families can enjoy everything from leisurely walks with panoramic city views to more adventurous paths through forests and along fjords, often with the convenience of funiculars or cable cars to reach higher elevations.

Yes, Mount Fløyen is an excellent choice for families. You can take the Fløibanen Funicular up to 320 meters above sea level, where numerous marked trails branch out. The enchanting Troll Forest path, with its moss-covered rocks and wooden troll sculptures, is particularly popular with children. The views of the city, harbor, and fjords from the top are spectacular.

Many trails offer incredible vistas. From Mount Fløyen, you'll get panoramic views of Bergen and the surrounding fjords. Mount Ulriken, the tallest of the seven mountains, provides sprawling views extending to the North Sea. For a unique experience, consider visiting the Alte Fuhrmanns-Schänke Dehningshof or the Forest Classroom Bergen, which can be interesting stops along your route.

Yes, many of the trails around Bergen, especially on mountains like Fløyen and Ulriken, offer options for circular walks. These allow families to experience varied scenery without retracing their steps, often returning to the same starting point or a convenient public transport link.

The best time for family hiking in Bergen is generally from late spring through early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is milder, trails are more accessible, and the days are longer. Summer offers lush greenery, while autumn brings beautiful fall colors to the landscapes.

For families seeking a bit more challenge, Mount Ulriken offers more demanding trails. You can hike up or take the Ulriken Cable Car to the summit. The trails pass through dense forest and open moorland, providing a rewarding experience with stunning views. The Vidden Trail, connecting Mount Ulriken and Mount Fløyen, is a classic five-hour trek for older, more experienced families.

The family-friendly trails around Bergen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 360 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning fjord and mountain views, the accessibility of many trails, and the variety of options suitable for different family members.

Many popular hiking areas, especially near the mountain tops like Fløyen and Ulriken, have cafes or restaurants. Along some routes, you might also find shelters or picnic areas, such as the Königsplatz Shelter or the Wolthausen Canoe Launch and Picnic Area, perfect for a break. It's always a good idea to pack snacks and water, especially on longer excursions.

Many of Bergen's popular trailheads, such as those for Mount Fløyen and Mount Ulriken, are easily accessible from the city center. The Fløibanen Funicular and Ulriken Cable Car provide direct access to higher trails. For other trailheads, public transport options are generally available, and parking can often be found nearby, though it's advisable to check specific locations in advance, especially during peak season.

Hiking trails in and around Bergen showcase a rich variety of natural beauty. You can expect to see pristine wilderness, dense forests, serene lakes, wetlands, and meadows. The dramatic mountain scenery and unparalleled vistas of the Norwegian landscape, including fjords and distant islands, are constant companions on these family adventures.