Sunndal is a place where rivers thunder, mountains rise sheer from the valley floor, and history weaves itself between natural landmarks. Here, three days unfold with experiences that stay with you – from the rush of waterfalls and stories of salmon fishing to echoes of British explorers, grand lodge-style stays, and food drawn straight from the mountains and the fjord.
Welcome to Sunndal – a valley so wild and striking that British gentlemen fell for it as early as the 1800s. Back then, they arrived with fishing rods and writer’s eyes, chasing the kind of nature experiences they couldn’t find at home. And they left their mark. Today, you can follow in their footsteps – from grand old lodges to cultural moments in the heart of the valley.
In the late 1800s, British salmon lords and mountain enthusiasts made their way to Sunndal. They built hunting cabins and lodges, bringing with them both architecture and the habit of afternoon tea. Several of these places still stand today — and you can even stay in some of them:
Vangshaugen – now a DNT cabin and a much-loved starting point for mountain hikes.
Phillipshaugen Lodge – full of charm and character, ideal if you enjoy historic accommodation.
Nyheim Lodge – newly restored and warm in atmosphere, surrounded by mountains and river.
The story of Lady Arbuthnott reads almost like a novel. She arrived in Norway as a young noblewoman and became a strong voice in the Sunndal community. Every summer, her life is brought to the stage in the moving Lady Arbuthnott play, performed in the centre of Sunndalsøra. You can also follow in her footsteps on a dedicated historical walk.
At Leikvin village museum, you’ll get the full story of the British visitors, the salmon, the river and everyday life in Sunndal. Outside, in Phillipshagen, you can wander between blooming perennials and old trees once planted by English hands. This might be the most British spot in Sunndal – and it’s completely free to visit.
Sunndal is a valley of waterfalls. Here you’ll find some of the highest and wildest falls in Europe – at their most powerful in spring and summer, when the snow melts and the mountains breathe heavily.
Åmotan means “where the rivers meet”, and that’s exactly what happens here. Several rivers plunge down steep mountainsides and collide in one dramatic point, surrounded by sheer cliffs. It’s the kind of sight that stays with you.
Vinnu is one of the highest waterfalls in Europe – an 865-metre drop from top to bottom. You can admire it from the valley, but the best way to feel its power is to head up the Vinnu steps – a sturdy sherpa-built stairway that winds its way up the mountainside. Along the way you’ll meet spray from the falls, sweeping views and that familiar sense of achievement.
At the foot of the steps, you’ll also find something completely different in summer: Timian på farten – a green, charming food truck serving pastries, small dishes and drinks made with care. A perfect place to fuel up before or after your hike.
The Driva river has long been a hub for salmon fishing. The British came for the salmon, but many Norwegians have also found their luck here. Today, you can still fish in the river – or simply wander along the banks and watch for a flash of silver in the water. Fishing has been a lifeline for the community, and the river has always been more than just water: it has provided food, stories and a sense of belonging.
Your final day takes you to what many call Norway’s most beautiful valley – Innerdalen. The landscape here looks almost painted in watercolour: full rivers, green meadows and mountain peaks stretching towards the sky.
From the car park at Nerdal, it’s around an hour’s walk along a gravel road into the valley. Even on the way in, you get the feeling of stepping into a postcard. Once you arrive, the choices are ready for you: will you try the iconic climb up Innerdalstårnet, or do you prefer a quiet paddle surrounded by mountain scenery?
Renndølsetra and DNT Innerdalshytta offer overnight stays in the heart of the valley. At Renndølsetra, the animals are brought up every summer, giving you the sense of staying right in the middle of the cultural landscape. And you have to try the waffles here – they’re worth the walk on their own.
On your way in or out of Innerdalen, you can stop at Nerdal farm, where you’ll find a small shop selling local produce. Here, you can bring the taste of Sunndal home with you – and perhaps spark the desire for a return trip. Sunndal is also home to several small, dedicated food producers who put the flavour of the valley on the map. Try the sought-after Sunndal potato, known for its quality and taste, or pick up fresh eggs from Tuppen og Lillemor – a tiny producer with a big love for both animals and ingredients.
With that, your three days of waterfalls, mountain adventures and cultural heritage come to an end. One thing is certain: you won’t leave Sunndal quite the same as when you arrived.
