New attraction for cruise guests at Vøringsfossen waterfall

The Norwegian Public Roads Administration (NPRA) has opened a new step bridge above Vøringsfossen waterfall, the most popular attraction for cruise guests sailing into Cruise Port Eidfjord in Hardangerfjord, Norway.

Located 25 minutes’ drive from the cruise port, the new bridge was designed by architect Carl-Viggo Hølmebakk and spans 47 metres. It includes 99 steps, resulting in a height difference of 16 metres between the two ends of the bridge.

“Many factors have had an impact on the design of the bridge,” said Hølmebakk. “The structure must be safe and robust, the bridge must fit in with the old pack road and the landscape, and of course emphasis has been placed on the view and the experience it will provide. The bridge creates a new way to see and perceive the landscape space.”

The steel bridge was assembled on site, with each of the seven components being hoisted into place by a crane and secured with bolts drilled into the surrounding rocks.

“Small or no allowable tolerances in the assembly of parts have placed great demands on engineering design and production,” said Kjersti Wold, project manager. “The installation of the bridge for nine hectic days in June at a place with steep precipices into a fast river was also a very demanding task in terms of safety, staff and equipment.”

The bridge is the second phase of NPRA’s project to develop a safe walking route around Vøringsfossen gorge from Måbødalen, Eidfjord. In the first stage, which was completed in 2018, NPRA added footpaths, viewing platforms, safety barriers, parking and a service building. The organisation will start the third and final phase of the project in 2021, adding more viewpoints, footpaths and toilet facilities.