Winter in Valdres – Nature experiences for the whole family

Winter activities in Valdres – Experience the magic of the mountains from Ølsjølitoppen

Valdres is a winter wonderland for nature lovers and adrenaline seekers alike. With snow-covered mountain plateaus, quiet lakes, and open areas, the region offers a wide range of winter activities for both children and adults. Winter activities in Valdres offer more than just skiing. Here you can experience snowkiting, snowshoeing, and true mountain tranquility – all in the heart of the Norwegian winter landscape. And the best part is that many of these experiences await right outside your cabin door at places like Ølsjølitoppen.

Want a complete overview of activities all year round? See our activity overview at Ølsjølitoppen.

Watch the drone video from Ølsjølitoppen to get a feel for the winter landscape, ski trails, and opportunities for activities like snowkiting, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.

Snowkiting for those who love speed and freedom

With wide open plateaus and stable wind conditions, Valdres is ideal for snowkiting. You can strap on your skis or snowboard, attach a kite and let the wind pull you across snow-covered expanses at high speed. There are courses for beginners, as well as opportunities for experienced kiters to practice jumps and tricks. At Ølsjølitoppen, several of the plots are located in immediate proximity to open areas well-suited for this type of activity. Best of all, you won't have to wait in any queues. Want to learn more about snowkiting in Norway? Visit Visit Norway's guide to snowkiting for information on courses and destinations.

Snowshoeing – Discover the peace and quiet of the high mountains

Snowshoes allow you to explore snow-covered nature at your own pace, no matter the snow conditions. It requires no prior experience and is suitable for both children and adults. From Ølsjølitoppen, you can follow your own tracks into protected terrain, up to viewpoints, or simply enjoy the serenity among snow-heavy pine trees. This is a winter activity focused on being present in the moment rather than keeping a fast pace.

Ice fishing offers both tranquility and excitement

For those who prefer the silence and patience that winter can offer, ice fishing is a wonderful activity. Røssjøen and Hafsenn is located a short distance from Ølsjølitoppen and offers good fishing opportunities and beautiful surroundings. Holes in the ice, coffee in a thermos and maybe a trout on the hook make this a perfect way to spend a winter day.

A sleigh ride offers winter magic for the whole family

Nothing says Norwegian winter adventure quite like a traditional horse-drawn sleigh ride. Bundle up in warm blankets, listen to the sleigh bells, and enjoy the scenery as the horse and sleigh take you through snow-covered trails. Several local farms and providers organize sleigh rides during the winter season, making it an experience suited for both young and old. Many visitors to Ølsjølitoppen take part in these activities as part of their mountain cabin lifestyle.

Cross-country skiing and summit tours right outside your door

From Ølsjølitoppen you have direct access to an extensive network of trails. Just strap on your skis and get going. The trails lead through beautiful forests, across open plains and up to mountain peaks such as Spåtind For many, cross-country skiing and mountain hiking are the highlight of winter activities in Valdres , with miles of groomed trails and panoramic views of the mountains. You can plan your own trips according to your fitness level and experience or follow marked routes for maximum safety and nature experience. Ølsjølitoppen is a great starting point for both short and longer mountain hikes all year round. Read more about some of our favorites in this post about mountain hiking in Valdres

Dog sledding – A classic for the whole family

Nothing feels more authentically winter than gliding through the landscape behind a team of huskies. Dog sledding is an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages. Several operators in Valdres offer excursions with professional mushers, ranging from short trips to full-day adventures.

Winter at Ølsjølitoppen

Ølsjølitoppen is located 1030 meters above sea level in Etnedal , and is surrounded by untouched nature and ski slopes. From here you have a short distance to activities such as snowkiting, snowshoeing, hunting, ice fishing and cross-country skiing - right from the cabin door. Our plots are peacefully located with views of protected areas, and are perfect for those who want a cabin with access to real winter experiences. Whether you want to try something new or just enjoy the simple cabin life, there are winter activities in Valdres for every taste.

No matter what you enjoy, winter activities in Valdres offer experiences tailored to both thrill-seekers and those seeking peace in nature.

📍 Read more about Ølsjølitoppen and our available cabin plots