Hemsedal Ski Resort

Hemsedal is often referred to as the "Scandinavian Alps", and once you've been there you will understand why. Long slopes are situated within a beautiful mountain-scape. Hemsedal is located between Oslo and Bergen, and can be accessed from the capital within around three hours. Hemsedal features a total of 52 runs and 24 lifts, so it can certainly keep up with the "real" Alps.

The resort makes special efforts for families and young children, who are at the centre of attention at the world of Valle the snowman. The kids' area is located at the centre of the ski resort, and offers children a safe environment to practise their turns. The several lifts here are perfectly adapted to childrens' needs. But Valle's World features more than just a place to try out skiing. Little racers can measure their speed at Donald Duck & Co with a self timer, at Play Park they can practise first freestyle tricks, and ice princesses can explore the ice rink. Children under 6 wearing a helmet ski for free here!

The slopes are also set up with the little ones in mind. For instance with the green (easiest category) run through the woods, where a different creature hides behind each tree. Valle's forest is located between the runs no. 1 and 2. Furthermore, easy runs are distributed all through the resort for beginners to explore.

Intermediate skiers will also find lots of blue and red runs. Especially the runs down the three main mountains Totten, Tinden, and Rogjin are pure pleasure. Connecting the runs, you can ski for up to 6 kilometres while enjoying the beautiful mountain-scape. According to your skill level, you can choose between easier and more difficult runs. The two cross pistes add a bit of extra excitement to your ski day. If you enjoy a swift run down the mountain, go to Speed Ski Arena or BMW X-Drive Arena to measure your speed.

Freestyle fans don't just find one terrain park, but four. Hemsedal Park is located by run no. 22, and boasts various different obstacles from rails to jumps. Park Jump Street by run no. 33 offers features for beginners and intermediates, and Panorama Park at 1000 metres above sea level takes your tricks extra high.

Nearly all dining facilities are located at the base area. If you just want a slice of pizza or a snack, Experten Sportsbar is the place to go. Hollvin Restaurant features local food, furthermore they have a tasty cake offer in the afternoon. Big Horn Steak House next to the Welcome Center features delicious steaks.

Don't miss out on the long run from Totten down into the valley against a panoramic backdrop. The run starts green (easiest category), and can be continued on easier or more difficult runs according to your skill level.

You can find a lot to do all around Hemsedal, even when you're not standing on your skis. For example, you can go on a dog-sled ride through the snowy winter-scape. Whether you sit back with a blanket and relax, or try your hand standing at the front as navigator, a ride with the huskies is always a great experience.

A little slower, but equally beautiful: a ride on a horse-drawn sleigh. If you prefer to trust the power of motors, there is a snowmobile course in Lykkja. There are also various providers of ice climbing experiences. If you've never done ice climbing, you should take a beginners' class to be safe.

Can you imagine Norway without Nordic skiing? Of course Hemsedal features an extensive net of cross-country trails. You can find 120 kilometres of groomed tracks around town. You get to pick between trails in the valley or up on the mountain. Access is possible from almost all accommodations, so you can start onto the trail right off your doorstep.

If you've always wanted to watch an elk in their natural habitat, book an Elk Safari. Together you venture into the woods on horseback or sleigh, where the group builds a shelter. Wrapped up in blankets you snuggle up by the bonfire and hope to see an elk or two.

There are a few good bars in Hemsedal, where you can find a decent party. First up is Stavkroa Bar, one of the most famous après-ski bars in Norway. True to the motto: Ski in Dance out!

Bar(t) extends over two storeys and includes 6 different bars. Surely everyone will find their favourite drink here. If you're looking for live music, try Skistua After Ski. If it's not just drinks you're after, go for a meal at Hollvin.

Fossheim is surely one of the best restaurants in Hemsedal. Regional specialities are prepared with love. A cosy option is Kjokken Kroken, where you get a great wine list along with your food. Lodgen Restaurant at Alpin Lodge is young and trendy. If you like it simple, Hemsedal Burger makes fresh hamburgers, or you can enjoy a pizza at Peppes Pizza.

Hemsedal is easily accessible. You can go to Oslo by plane, from where shuttle busses take you to Hemsedal every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Busses need to be booked in advance. If you arrive during the week, Nettbus Express gets you to Hemsedal.