Hike to the old yew at Varaldsøy

Location
Varaldsøy

Map
Norway 1:50 000 sheet 1215 11, Varaldsøy.
Folgefonna National Park
Folgefonna – Hardanger fjord

Start and stopping point
Glebakka

Parking
From the ferry dock in Varaldsøy, follow the main road for approx. 1 km. Turn right at the intersection immediately after the chapel (large white building on the right hand side). After 500 meters, turn left by the Øyerhamn sign. Follow the road for approx. 5 km. to Glebakka, there is a sign on the right side of the road. Park at the lumber storage yard by the river.

Signs and Markings
Information Board at the starting point.
T markings and signs.

Grading
Green
Easy hike, one boot according to the DNT system.

Difference in altitude
230 - 280m AMSL (Above Mean Sea Level).

Estimated Time
1 hour round trip.

Recommended Advice
The river by the parking lot is the source of drinking water at Varaldsøy, please show consideration.
The Taxaceae (Taxus baccata) is the largest of its kind in northern Europe. It is protected by Norwegian law. The tree is hollow and children enjoy climbing it.

Overview
There is a forest road going northeast from the parking lot along the left hand side of the river. After 400 meters, the forest road crosses a stream while the path to the Taxaceae goes along the left bank for 200 meters, almost to a cabin. Then the path goes to the left up the hill to the Taxaceae.
This is a pleasant hike for the whole family through a beautiful forest area. The path may be a be difficult to find due to vegetation.