About the protected landscape
Stølsheimen Protected Landscape stretches from the fjord to the mountains on the southern side of Sognefjorden. There are few modern encroachments but many traces of the past. This is Western Norway, a place with a lot of rainfall that provides lush nature, many rivers and high waterfalls.
Approaches
There are several starting points for hiking and experiences in Stølsheimen Protected Landscape. Here is some information about some of the villages that are good approaches to the area.
Activities and destinations
There are many summer mountain farms to visit in Stølsheimen, several Norwegian Trekking Association cabins to stay at and a well-developed trail network. For experienced mountain hikers, everything is in place for long hikes and cabins-to-cabin trips. There are also easier trips for visitors to take.
Travel and accommodation
Stølsheimen Protected Landscape is easily accessible by car from Bergen, Voss and Vik. With a little planning, taking the bus can be an alternative to the car. Accommodation options range from simple Norwegian Trekking Association cabins to nice hotels.
| Title | Address | Description |
|---|---|---|
Ortnevik | Ortnevik 71, 5962 Bjordal, Norge | |
Arnafjorden | Fæle 20, 6893 Vik i Sogn, Norge | |
Modalen | Mo sentrum, Mo, Norge | |
Eksingedalen | Fv344 14, 5728 Eidslandet, Norge | |
| Unnamed Road, 5962 Bjordal, Norge |
Where is Stølsheimen Protected Landscape?
Stølsheimen is located in Vestland County on the southern side of Sognefjord and just a couple of hours drive from Bergen.
How do I get there?
The easiest way to get to Stølsheimen Protected Landscape is by car.
Tourist information
Protected areas in the vicinity
Nærøyfjorden Protected Landscape, Hardangervidda National Park, Hallingskarvet National Park and Jostedalsbreen National Park.
The Right to Roam – joys and obligations
Just think how lucky we are: The Right to Roam is a free common good that gives you the right to enjoy uncultivated land, regardless of who owns it. From ancient times, we have had the right to travel through forests and fields, along rivers, on lakes, along the coastline and in the mountains. The main principles of the Right to Roam are set out in the Outdoor Recreation Act of 1957. A basic rule for all who enjoy the benefits of the Right to Roam is: Leave nature the way you would like to find it yourself!
You may travel freely on foot or on skis through the natural surroundings, as long as you show consideration and do not leave any trash behind.
It is permitted to ride horses and bikes on trails and roads.
You are allowed to pick berries, mushrooms and common flowers, but do not pick endangered or protected species such as orchids.
Cultural monuments such as ancient walls, trapping sites and burial mounds are protected. Do not move any rocks or stones.
Hunting and fishing are permitted if you have a hunting/fishing license. Rod fishing is free for children under the age of 16. The use of live fish as bait is not permitted. In addition, it is not permitted to take live fish or wet fishing gear from one watercourse to another.
Motorized traffic, with the exception of boats on the fjord, is not permitted in the protected areas, unless you have been granted special permission. This also includes electric bikes.
The weather in the mountains can change abruptly, both during summer and winter. During the summer, it is not uncommon to experience low temperatures and thick fog. Sunny winter weather can suddenly change to dense blizzards.
It is your responsibility to assess the weather conditions, your level of fitness and skills, and to be prepared with suitable clothing and equipment. The various protected areas have their own rules and regulations.
Leave no trace
Clean up after yourself and do not leave any trash behind, including disposable barbecues and wet wipes.
You are permitted to pitch your tent on uncultivated land as long as you are at least 150 meters away from the nearest house or cabin. Lowland meadows are often classed as cultivated or arable land. This means that you are only allowed to pitch your tent in these meadows with permission from the land owner. Use recommended campsites.
Lighting campfires in forests and uncultivated land is prohibited from 15 April to 15 September, except along places such as watercourses where the risk of wildfires is minimal. Use established fire pits and avoid building campfires directly on bedrock in case the rock cracks. Extinguish the fire properly and clean up before you leave.
Show consideration for grazing animals and wild animals. Keep your dog on a leash and close gates behind you. Wild reindeer are especially vulnerable during the late winter and spring.
If you can’t find a toilet, dig a hole that is at least 30 meters from paths, buildings or water sources. Toilet paper and wet wipes are garbage that must be thrown into a trash bin.
Follow established trails so that wild reindeer and other shy animals do not have to encounter people everywhere. Avoid taking short cuts or treading new trails.
Do not disturb animals and birdlife. Try to observe animals and birds from a distance. Binoculars are recommended.
Cairns are landmarks that help you to follow the route. Do not build new cairns as this may lead people astray. Do not remove stones from old cairns. They are cultural monuments.