Aurdal – Downhill Skiing, Cross-Country Ski Trails and Fjord

Aurdal offers opportunities for downhill skiing and cross-country ski trails used in winter. Aurdal Valdres Alpinsenter has five ski lifts and 14 slopes or runs of varying difficulty. At the bottom of the valley lies Aurdalsfjorden; above it, the village extends up to the treeless mountain area of Aurdalsåsen. This means your trip planning can take in both the runs and the trails and activities by the fjord.

Slopes and Winter Trails

The five lifts and 14 runs give you a clear overview of the alpine skiing on offer in Aurdal. The varying difficulty levels are a useful starting point for groups with different levels of skiing experience to compare expectations. If you want to plan your ski days around specific slopes, check the ski centre’s current operating information before your trip.

There is also plenty to do on foot in winter: 120 kilometres of cross-country ski trails in Aurdal are actively used together with Valdres Alpinsenter. Trail grooming conditions can vary by season. If you have a particular route in mind, check the conditions before setting out. This lets you plan your day around the conditions on your chosen trail.

Another way to explore the area is the Valdresbanevegen. This well-signposted route along the former railway line is 34 kilometres long and designed as a there-and-back route for walking or cycling. It passes through Noraker and Aurdal to the old Bjørgo railway station and is suitable for everyone. The route offers a different way to discover the area than the slopes or cross-country ski trails.

Landscape, Fjord and Trails

Aurdal extends from the valley floor by Aurdalsfjorden to the treeless mountain area of Aurdalsåsen. The interplay between the old buildings and the surrounding cultural landscape is characteristic of the village. The fjord lies at the bottom of the valley, with good opportunities for swimming and fishing.

Shore fishing spots include the golf course, Sundvold Bridge, Aurdal Fjordcamping and Turmo. If you are heading to a specific spot, check local access information before your visit. Nearby, the hike to Vardeberget leads to a viewpoint overlooking Aurdal and Vestringsbygda.

Church and Festival

Aurdal kirke dates from 1737. It is a typical East Norwegian wooden cruciform church, with an equally old gatehouse. The church is listed as “Automatically listed (1650–1850)”. Its historical and architectural context is also relevant to Hemsingfestivalen: most of the festival’s concerts take place in the church.

Hemsingfestivalen is held in Aurdal every year and combines music with local culinary traditions and experiences in nature. Individual programmes may vary. If the festival is important to your travel dates, check the dates and programme before booking.

Accommodation Nearby

Near Aurdal is Aurdal Fjordcamping og Hytter, a family campsite on Aurdalsfjorden that is open all year round. Marked hiking and cycling trails are nearby. Before booking, check the campsite’s current availability and the services it offers.

Discover more destinations: Fagernes, Ulnes.

For the regional travel overview: Nord-Aurdal.