Valdres, Norway – Hiking, cycling, fishing, skiing

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According to National Geographic, the Besseggen ridge is one of the top 20 hikes in the world. Not surprisingly, it’s located near Valdres – the home to some of the most impressive mountains in Norway.

The eye-catching region of Valdres extends from the lush and water rich valleys in the south to the Jotunheimen mountain range in the north. The region is known for its various outdoor activities throughout the year, such as hiking, cycling and fishing in the summer, and cross-country and downhill skiing in the winter. Just remember to familiarize yourself with the mountain code beforehand. Valdres is centrally located in southern Norway, and it is easy to get here by car and public transport.

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The town of Fagernes is the regional center in Valdres with restaurants, shopping, the Valdres Folk Museum and many different choices of accommodation.

For food-lovers, Valdres is well worth the visit. The region boasts a variety of locally produced food, such as cheese, ice cream, cured meats, sour cream porridge and the semi-fermented trout (known as “rakfisk”). During the first weekend in November you can even visit the popular Rakfisk Festival in Fagernes. Believe us: It tastes better than it sounds.

Valdres is in the process of being certified as a Sustainable Destination, a seal of approval given to destinations that work systematically to reduce the negative impact of tourism. In addition to providing visitors with enjoyable experiences, Valdres wishes to preserve the local nature, culture and environment, strengthen social values, and be economically viable. The municipality and the travel industry cooperate closely to assure that the destination is a great place both to live in and to visit.

Find more inspiration on Valdres’ official website.

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valdres.com

Fishing in Valdres.
Photo: Nils Rogn

Hiking at Besseggen.
Photo: Morten Helgesen

Dog sledding at Beitostølen.
Photo: Terje Rakke / Nordic Life AS / Visitnorway.com

Cross-country skiing at Beitostølen.
Photo: Terje Rakke / Nordic life / Visitnorway.com

Off-piste skiing at Beitostølen.
Photo: CH / Visitnorway.com

Sørre Hemsing farmyard in Valdres.
Photo: Tina Stafrèn / Visitnorway.com

Fermented trout "Rakfisk".
Photo: Cathrine Dokken

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Safety in the mountains

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Norway is an incredible place to explore, with untamed mythical landscapes, mountains, valleys, and fjords. Before you enter the outdoors, get familiar with the nine simple rules of the Norwegian mountain code to help you stay safe.

Plan your trip and inform others about the route you have selected.
Adapt the planned routes according to ability and conditions.
Pay attention to the weather and the avalanche warnings.
Be prepared for bad weather and frost, even on short trips.
Bring the necessary equipment so you can help yourself and others.
Choose safe routes. Recognize avalanche terrain and unsafe ice.
Use a map and a compass. Always know where you are.
Don’t be ashamed to turn around.
Conserve your energy and seek shelter if necessary.

Read the mountain code with supplementary comments.

Seasons and climate

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Getting here and around

Get in-depth travel information on Valdres’ official website.

Statens Kartverk, Geovekst og kommuner - Geodata AS

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Valdres