Balestrand
Raudmelen is a mountain which towers 972m over the centre of Balestrand. A hiking trail goes up the mountainside from Balestrand to the top of Raudmelen.
Raudmelen (972m) From the top you have fantastic views over the Sognefjord, both out towards Stølsheimen and in towards Fjærland and Leikanger.
Start by Belehalli sports hall, at the same place as the starting point for the nature trail. Take the red route to Raudmelen. The first part goes along the marked nature trail, but soon turns off upwards. After following the relatively steep path up through the woods it is nice to take a break at Orrabenken (370m) where you get a wonderful view over Balestrand centre and the Sognefjord.
From Orrabenken follow the path on upwards. The blue route turns off towards Balastølen and Fjærestedstølen and the red route continues up towards Raudmelen. At Burasi (575m), another fine resting place, you get a marvellous view over Sognefjord and Esefjella. The path goes on up and along the ridge towards the top with wonderful views on both sides. On one side you see down over the green slopes to Balestrand and on the other dramatic rocky mountainsides towards Esedalen.
At the top you are rewarded with fantastic views over the Sognefjord.
This is a demanding hike and takes approx. 6 hours. Good advice: Get a map from the tourist office. Be sure to take plenty of water as there is no drinking water on this route.
Important information:
Parking: Parking at Belehalli
Distance: 10 km
Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to demanding
Season: June - October
Toilet: Please note that there are no public toilets on the tour to Raudmelen.
Water: Fill your bottle with water before the tour as there may be limited access to water on the tour.
Leads are mandatory between April 1 and November 1. Your dog must not run loose.
Getting there:
From Balestrand quay/tourist office walk up Lærergata and on to Kreklingevegen until you get to Belehalli sports hall. The roads are signposted with white nature trail signs.
Transport
To reach Balestrand take the express bus from Oslo, Bergen or Trondheim or express boat from Bergen. If you come by car from Oslo take the E16 and route 55. From Bergen or Trondheim take the E39 and route 55.
For more information: www.ut.no
Planning your hike
Before embarking on any hike, it’s essential to check current trail conditions, weather forecasts, and ensure you have the necessary equipment, especially for challenging hikes. The overview maps and information about the trip in this brochure is only for inspiration. Do not use this map for the hike. Buy a proper map or contact a guiding company in the Sognefjord.
We're delighted to have you visiting - thanks for showing respect and care during your stay.
1. Use marked toilets and trash bins
2. Stick to marked trails and roads
3. Don't feed the animals
4. Respect private property
5. Keep left on roads and use sidewalk to give way to local farmes
I am Sognefjord
Source: Visit Sognefjord AS