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Fagernes, located in the heart of Valdres, is the region’s largest town with shops, hotels, and restaurants. The town is a hub for express buses from Oslo and Bergen, as well as for local bus routes in the region. Two main roads, Road 51 and Road E16, both run through Fagernes. Road 51 leads north towards Beitostølen and Valdresflye, while Road E16 connects Fagernes to Vaset and Filefjell in the northwest.
As well as being a good starting point for day trips, there are many opportunities for hiking in the nearby woods and mountains of Fagernes itself. With its characteristic round shape, Rundemellen is a well-known Valdres landmark. This demanding hike awards you far-reaching views of the region. If you’re looking for a family-friendly alternative that still grants sweeping views, hike to the top of Rundemellen’s little brother Skarvemellen.
The village of Beitostolen, situated by the edge of Jotunheimen, is another excellent base for hiking. Many of the trails are livestock tracks from when there were many summer mountain farms in the area. “Støl” is a Norwegian term you might come across, which refers to a mountain farm used in summer. These trails lead you through smooth mountain terrain and are great family. Consider Knausehødgi, Melbyfjellet, and Gravolskampen if you’re heading out with kids. The 23-kilometer long Heklefjellrunden is an ultimate roundtrip, highlighting the best of Beitostølen both in terms of nature and food.
