St. Michael´s chapel

In the beautiful Vinstradalen, which springs from Drivdalen in Oppdal, you’ll find St. Mikael’s Chapel. The chapel was built and consecrated in 2012. Originally intended to provide pilgrims with a break on a long journey, the chapel has also become a popular destination for people of all ages. The peace and quiet at the chapel are appreciated by most visitors. It’s a great spot for a visit for everyone.

As you walk down Vinstradalen along the pilgrim trail, you get a fantastic view of Oppdalsbygda from St. Mikael’s Chapel. Pilgrims can take the opportunity to meditate and learn about the area before continuing their journey to Nidaros. The chapel is constructed in a timber frame style, with vertical timber paneling. The roof is wooden. Inside, there is an amphitheater with twelve seats, set on a concrete slab and surrounded by “steps” of brick and wooden benches. Some of the interior is made of slate.

This small chapel hosts weddings, baptisms, and outdoor services. It is open year-round for hikers and pilgrims.

The “altar” is a large window facing north, offering a beautiful view of Drivdalen and Oppdal, and you can even see “Marit på Vang” – Oppdal Church on the other side of the village. The name of the chapel is inspired by the “Riseengelen” – a bronze figure of the archangel St. Michael found in the burial field at Rise, about 500 meters north of the chapel.

By car or bike: Drive/bike on the E6 (walking and cycling path) 8 km south to Driva. Turn left off the E6 towards Vinstradalen. Follow this road for about 3 km and park at the barrier. Then follow the gravel road for a couple of kilometers until you see the chapel on the left side of the road. You can also pay at the barrier and drive up, but it is recommended to walk the last two kilometers up Vinstradalen to the chapel.

The pilgrim trail also branches off here and continues on its own path, which you can follow back to Oppdal.