Hallingdal

Hallingdal represents one of southern Norway’s grand classic valleys, extending roughly 150 kilometers from the quiet waters of Lake Krøderen up to the windswept tundra of the Hardangervidda plateau. Encompassing six distinct municipalities, the valley exhibits rich historical significance as an east-west trading artery, evidenced by heritage wooden stave churches and historic turf-roof farmsteads. Today, the valley unites world-class outdoor recreation infrastructure with serene pastoral landscapes.

Geographically diverse, the lower valley around Flå and Nesbyen features dense evergreen forests, while the upper branches lead toward Geilo and Hemsedal—internationally recognized epicenters for downhill skiing and freeride terrain. In recent years, Hallingdal has emerged as a premier mountain biking destination in northern Europe, investing heavily in dedicated machine-built flow trails and natural backcountry singletrack. Whether navigating the iconic rails of the Bergensbanen or traversing remote gravel roads, travelers encounter an authentic cross-section of Norwegian mountain living.

Reasons to Visit

• World-class mountain biking networks featuring flow trails in Nesbyen and alpine paths in Geilo.
• Exceptional winter sports infrastructure across premier ski resorts like Hemsedal and Geilo.
• Direct rail connectivity via the renowned Bergen Railway (Bergensbanen), one of the world's most scenic train routes.
• Access to raw sub-arctic nature and wildlife at Hardangervidda National Park and Bjørneparken in Flå.
• Rich cultural traditions showcased through preserved stave churches, local folk music, and distinct mountain culinary heritage.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid venturing onto alpine trails without checking localized mountain forecasts, as temperatures can drop precipitously within minutes.
• Do not rely entirely on public buses for reaching remote trailheads; car rentals or planned shuttles provide far greater flexibility.
• Avoid driving high-altitude mountain passes in winter without emergency provisions, snow shovels, and proper winter equipment.
• Do not ignore private property and livestock boundaries when practicing the Right to Roam (Allemannsretten).

Local Transportation Tips

Transit through Hallingdal is facilitated by the Bergensbanen railway, operating daily passenger services between Oslo and Bergen with scheduled stops in Nesbyen, Gol, Ål, and Geilo. Local regional buses managed by Brakar link intermediate towns and ski centers like Hemsedal, though service frequencies taper off on weekends. For full access to backcountry trailheads, remote fishing lakes, and high-plateau cabins, renting a car is strongly recommended.

Travel Etiquette

• Honor 'Allemannsretten' by keeping at least 150 meters away from inhabited houses or cabins when pitching wild tents.
• Strictly carry out all trash; leave zero trace in wilderness areas and national parks.
• Close all wooden gates behind you on mountain trails to prevent grazing sheep from escaping pasture boundaries.
• Remove your outdoor shoes at the entrance when entering private Norwegian homes, cabins, or certain rural guesthouses.

Recommended Age Group

Hallingdal provides diverse activities tailored to different physical comfort and interest levels.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. Log cabins and valley hotels offer comfortable stays, but rugged trails and sub-zero winter temperatures can be demanding for infants.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Highly suitable due to interactive wildlife encounters at Bjørneparken, kid-friendly beginner ski schools, and accessible lakeside nature paths.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. Excellent destination for high-energy teens interested in terrain parks, downhill mountain biking, river rafting, and via ferratas.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Ideal for active hiking, ski touring, cultural visits, and scenic road trips.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The Bergensbanen provides effortless, scenic access to peaceful mountain lodges, historic museums, and level lakeside walks.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The Bergen Line trains feature dedicated wheelchair lifts, priority seating, and accessible restrooms at primary stations like Geilo and Gol.
• Modern visitor centers, including the Hardangervidda National Park Centre, are equipped with step-free entries and accessible boardwalks.
• Major ski resort lodges and contemporary hotels offer barrier-free accommodation, though backcountry trail surfaces consist mostly of uneven rock and roots.
• Paved pathways are available along select sections of the Hallingdalselva river and around central village cores.

Did You Know?

Hallingdal is home to the 'Hallingdans', a traditional acrobatic folk dance where male dancers attempt to kick a hat off a wooden stick held high in the air, a display of strength and agility that remains celebrated at local cultural gatherings.

Cool Statistics

• Covers an area of approximately 5,830 square kilometers across Eastern Norway.
• Contains more than 2,000 kilometers of machine-groomed cross-country ski trails across the valley system.
• Hemsedal Ski Resort offers one of Norway's highest lift-served vertical drops at 830 meters.
• Home to Torpo Stave Church, the only original stave church surviving in Hallingdal, constructed around 1192.