If I had to describe Valldal in one sentence, it would be: deep-blue fjords, peaks covered in eternal snow, a rushing river, and a village that smells like strawberries. The valley (between Trollstigen and Geiranger) isn’t called “the adventure valley” for nothing: here, you can step right out of the fjord into your kayak, from the shore onto a trail, and from the valley into the high mountains. And strawberries? They’re grown in abundance there.
The valley lies on the Norddalsfjord (part of the Storfjord) and serves as a gateway to Tafjord, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “West Norwegian Fjords (Geirangerfjord Area).” That means spectacular geology, waterfalls, and protected landscapes—and above all, nature that feels like an open-air museum.
Along the Valldøla River, you’ll find farms and stalls selling strawberries (season roughly from late June through July, depending on the weather). The valley has been growing berries and fruit for over a century. Try them fresh or as a dessert at local cafés.
It’s best to stop by and ask for advice on the best routes and the current conditions of the trails.
1. Ruggå: Family-friendly lookout point (1.5–2.5 hours)
A leisurely hike through meadows and woods to a massive rock offering a panoramic view of Valldal and the fjords. There’s even a simple shelter near the rock. Start: Hauge.
2. Mefjellet (1,104 m): a classic hike with spectacular fjord views (4–6 hours)
Rugged, occasionally steep, but every meter of elevation gain is worth it: views of Norddalsfjord, Tafjord, and the surrounding villages. Perfect if you’re looking for a “real” day in the mountains.
3. Loop between Nysetra, Heggsetra, and Heggesetra (about 6 hours). Optionally, including Klovseter and Åsesetra.
4. Seter Loop (each leg approx. 2–3 hours): Klovseter – Heggesetra – Nysetra – Nestestølen – Åsesetra
Hike through old summer farms (seters) with traditional cottages (“sel”). Pure Norway: open meadows, history, and the scent of wood. The hikes between the various locations take about 2–3 hours.
One of those farms is Meretes Garden. Today, it’s a delightful place to stay with 6 glamping tents and 1 double room.
4. Muldalsfossen: a waterfall with a “wow” factor (about 2 hours round trip)
Near Tafjord, you’ll climb up 13 hairpin turns to a viewing platform overlooking one of Norway’s tallest single-drop waterfalls (free fall ~200 m; due to hydropower regulation, the flow is reduced, but it’s still impressive).
Leave no trace: close gates, leave herders and animals undisturbed, stay on the trails, and take your trash with you.
Met een passie voor reizen en fotografie én meer dan 30 jaar ervaring in de reisbranche, deel ik graag mijn bijzondere natuur-reistips. Reizen is heerlijk en belangrijk, je ontmoet nieuwe mensen en culturen en het opent je blik op de wereld.
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Ben je op zoek naar de mooiste wandel- en fietsroutes? Of wil je informatie over reizen met de trein of advies voor de mooiste roadtrips door de natuur. Laat je inspireren voor je volgende reis in het groen; ideeën om je eigen reis te plannen of te kiezen voor een georganiseerde reis.
