Top 20 Lakes around Voss

For families,

Lake Vetlavatnet is a cozy option with a tiny beach and rocks for lounging, offering great views. Evangervatnet, near the village of Evanger, also has swimming spots, a small beach, and a playground. Lake Vangsvatnet, centrally located in Voss, is excellent for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and cycling along its gentle path. Additionally, the Old Railway Cycle Path Along Grandvinsvatnet is a family-friendly cycling route.

Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. For a rewarding experience, hike to Valbergstjørni, a small mountain lake accessible via a marked trail from the gondola's top station, Bavallen, or the Voss folk museum. This hike culminates in a refreshing swim with panoramic views of Mount Lønahorgi. For more general hiking and running trails in the region, you can explore the Running Trails around Voss guide.

Voss offers diverse cycling routes near its lakes. You can cycle along the gentle path circling Lake Vangsvatnet, which is perfect for a leisurely ride. Another popular option is the Old Railway Cycle Path Along Grandvinsvatnet, a restored section of an old railway line ideal for cycling. For more challenging rides, explore the Cycling around Voss guide, which includes routes like the 'Vangsvatnet Loop'.

Many lakes around Voss reach comfortable swimming temperatures in the summer. Lake Vangsvatnet has an accessible beach just a five-minute walk from the town center. Evangervatnet, near Evanger, also features several swimming spots, including a small beach on its south side. For a unique mountain swimming experience, hike to Valbergstjørni.

The lakes in Voss are surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Lake Vangsvatnet offers mirror-like reflections of the sky and mountains on clear days. From Valbergstjørni, you get a splendid view of Mount Lønahorgi. Lake Vetlavatnet provides fantastic views of both Gråsida and Lønahorgi. You can also find the Orchards by the Lake in the Hardanger region, known for its fruit-growing landscape.

The best time to visit the lakes in Voss largely depends on your desired activities. Summer (June to August) is ideal for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and enjoying the warmest temperatures. Spring and autumn offer beautiful scenery for hiking and cycling, with fewer crowds and vibrant foliage or blooming orchards. Winter provides opportunities for snow-related activities, though lake access might be limited by ice and snow.

While the lakes themselves are primarily natural attractions, the nearby village of Flåm, accessible from some viewpoints, offers cultural insights. You can see the Red rorbuer in Flåm, distinctive red boathouses that showcase traditional Norwegian village architecture by the fjord. Flåm also has a 17th-century wooden church and is connected by the historic Flåm Railway.

Beyond hiking and cycling, the lakes in Voss are popular for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, especially on Lake Vangsvatnet. Fishing is also a significant activity, with over 500 lakes and rivers in the Voss region offering freshwater fishing opportunities. Paragliders often land on the shores of Vangsvatnet, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Visitors particularly appreciate the serene beauty and diverse activities offered by the lakes. Many enjoy the calm and scenic atmosphere of lakes like Vangsvatnet, perfect for relaxation or water sports. The opportunity to combine hiking with a refreshing swim in mountain lakes like Valbergstjørni is also highly valued. The charming village settings and accessible amenities near lakes like Evangervatnet also contribute to a pleasant experience.

While specific dog-friendly trails are not explicitly detailed for each lake, the general outdoor areas and many hiking paths around Voss are welcoming to dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. Always check local regulations or signage at specific trailheads or lake access points for any restrictions.

Lake Vangsvatnet, being centrally located in Voss, is surrounded by the town's amenities, including cafes and pubs where you can enjoy views of the lake. The village of Evanger, near Evangervatnet, also has a shop, café, and pub, offering local charm alongside the lake.