From fjord to mountain – and everything in between
Valldal has a temperate climate and you can buy fruit, berries and vegetables straight from farmers during the summer season. The Norwegian Scenic Route Trollstigen - Geiranger passes through the municipality. You can visit spectacular architectural viewpoints along this section of road, such as Gudbrandsjuvet in Valldal.The unique natural features of the area mean that parts of the municipality are both part of Reinheimen National Park and Geirangerfjord World Heritage, and there are also four nature reserves and a number of landscape protection areas.
Adventures for every level
Many people visit the area for the wide range of activities on offer, which are suitable for all ages and skill levels. You can go kayaking, rafting, canyoning, hiking in the mountains, climbing with the whole family and ski touring. If you're looking for a real adrenaline kick, try abseiling down the 96-metre Zakariasdammen dam! Be sure to visit the beautiful Tafjord, an area that is part of UNESCO World Heritage that is not as well-known as its big brother the Geirangerfjord. Valldal is also the starting point for the Valldalsleia pilgrimage.
Towns and villages around Valldal
Around Valldal you'll find several villages and small communities, each with its own character and experiences. Visit Herdalssetra, a mountain farm with 300 years of unbroken summer farming, ski at the Arena Overøye resort, walk through landscapes straight out of a national romantic painting, or admire the rose-painted interior of Rosekyrkja. From fjord fishing to mountain hikes, from protected crofts to local food traditions – this is where you find the genuine, the close-knit and the varied.
How to get to Valldal
There are several ways of getting to Valldal, both on public transport and by car. The closest airport is Ålesund Airport Vigra, roughly one hour and thirty minutes from Valldal, which has good national and international connections.
By bus: Several departures a day from Ålesund. During summer, there's also a bus service from Åndalsnes. Check timetables at www.frammr.no
By train: Train to Åndalsnes and bus over the Trollstigen road to Valldal during summer. Train timetables are available at www.entur.no
Distance by car: One hour and thirty minutes from Ålesund.
