The valley of Maldal, just 9 km from Sauda's town centre in Ryfylke, is a gem worth exploring on foot. From Sauda, follow trunk road Fv520 and turn off toward Maldal just after the factory.
The trail starts from the parking lot at Maldal, at 450 metres altitude. Follow the green signs of the well-marked trail, initially on a forest road that ascends gently through a marshy woodland, until you reach the proper hiking trail. The trail is visible or marked. On the way up toward Reinsnuten you pass eight haybarns, the oldest of which dates back to 1808, before arriving at Maldalsstølen, an old mountain farm situated at 750 metres altitude. Information signs at each haybarn tell you its history. A trail leads you back to the parking lot in Maldal.
This mountain walk takes you through varied mountainous terrain where the vegetation is dominated by mountain birch and heather. When you reach the treeline, you're rewarded with a great vista of the mountains and lakes. Be sure to choose waterproof footwear and bring clothes that take the weather forecast into account, as parts of the trail can be wet and muddy. The hike to Maldalsstølen is suitable for the whole family. Distance: 7.5 km. Duration: 3 hours.