Family activities in Valdres – Nature, Culture and Fun for All Ages
Valdres is perfect for families who want to get out into nature and experience something together. Here you will find fresh air, mountains and lakes, and a wide range of activities throughout the year. Whether you are looking to go on mountain hikes, feed sheep on a farm visit or sled in powder snow, it is easy to create good memories here with family activities in Valdres which is suitable for both children and adults throughout the year.
Summer holidays and family activities in Valdres
In the summer it is Valdres a playground for both young and old. The landscape is varied and safe, and the activities are suitable for all ages.
Top hikes in Etnedal – Family activities in Valdres for small and large
In Etnedal you will find several mountain peaks that are suitable for children. Skaget and Tonskulen are good choices for shorter hikes, while Spåtind provides more of a challenge. All offer good views and the feeling of having been on a proper hike. It is easy to find marked trails and clear maps.
Cycling and paddling in safe surroundings
Gravel roads and paths make it easy to cycle safely in Etnedal. There is little car traffic and many places to stop for ice cream, swimming or a packed lunch. There are also good opportunities for canoeing in lakes and rivers, and several bodies of water are great for both swimming and fishing.
Calm, time and presence
Many families come to Valdres precisely to unwind. It's not always about doing as much as possible, but about having time to play cards at the cabin, cook dinner on a campfire or just take a stroll without a destination. Here it's easy to calm down and be present in the moment.
Winter and family activities in Valdres – Snow and skiing for the whole family
When winter comes, transform Valdres to a white landscape with many opportunities for family activities and relaxation.
Cross-country skiing and playing in the snow
Ølsjølitoppen has ski slopes right outside the cabin door. Here, both children and adults can go for short or longer trips, without hustle and bustle. The snow conditions are stable, and the terrain is suitable for all levels. Around the cabins there is plenty of space for sledding, snow caves and snowman building.
Alpine skiing in the vicinity
There are several small ski resorts in Valdres -region that is great for families with children. They are quiet, clear and safe for beginners. Many people combine cross-country skiing and alpine skiing during their winter holidays.
See snow conditions and opening times for ski resorts on Skiinfo
See the winter atmosphere from Ølsjølitoppen
Here you can see our mood video from the winter in Valdres . Filmed on a quiet day with fresh snow and sun over the mountains. It shows a little of what you can expect from the winter experiences at Ølsjølitoppen .
Local culture and food experiences for the whole family
Valdres is not just about nature. Here you also get to meet the animals, taste authentic local food and experience the culture of the area.
Farm visit
Several farms in Etnedal and the surrounding area welcome visitors. Children can greet sheep, horses and chickens, and in some places it is possible to participate in feeding or milking. For many children this is a highlight, and for adults it gives insight into local production and lifestyle.
Local food and real flavors
At local farms and markets you can taste rakfisk, sour cream porridge, homemade lefse and handmade cheeses. This is a great way to experience Valdres on, whether you're shopping for something to take home or just taking a break with something good in the sun.
Museum and small events
Valdres The Folk Museum at Fagernes is child-friendly and provides an exciting insight into the old days. During the year, small festivals and market days are also arranged that are suitable for the whole family.
Ølsjølitoppen – A good starting point for family activities in Valdres
In the middle of the mountains in Etnedal lies Ølsjølitoppen , with finished infrastructure, spacious plots and great views. From here it is a short distance to both summer activities and winter adventures. If you want a family cabin in quiet surroundings, with nature right outside the door, this is a good place to start.
👉 Read also: The cabins at Ølsjølitoppen 👉 Read more about Winter activities in Valdres
