Lodalen Valley
Norway's most beautiful valley
Lodalen is one of the most beautiful and distinctive valleys in Norway. Here you will encounter green waters, mighty glaciers and a history that makes an impression. The valley is located in the municipality of Stryn, on the west side of the Jostedalsbreen glacier, and is an experience you will not soon forget.
Deep in the valley lies Kjenndalsbreen, the lowest glacier arm from Jostedalsbreen. Here you can get up close to the ice - a spectacular spectacle. Further down you will find Breng, a charming seat with traditional stilt houses and blooming hills - a popular stop for both photographers and passers-by. Iconic Skåla towers over Loen, and is one of the most popular hiking lakes - and Norway's longest downhill.
From Lodalen You can also experience Bødalsbreen, via Bødalsetra, which is the starting point for mountain hikes to Lodalskåpa (2083 m), also known as the Queen of the West. This is a popular area for both day trips and longer hikes in glacial and mountain landscapes.
By bike through Lodalen
Lodalen is made for a bike ride. From Loen, you follow the road along the emerald green Lovatnet, and between steep mountains and thundering waterfalls. By bike, you get close to nature – you can stop wherever you want, take in the sounds of the rivers and enjoy the view of glaciers and mountains. Click here for a map.
The route is suitable for both exercisers and families with children, and goes all the way to Kjenndalsbreen, with several stops along the way - such as the iconic Breng, cafes, historical sites and picnic areas by the lake. You can rent bicycles from Loen Active - they have both electric and hybrid bikes.
Bike in Lodalen
Bødalen and Bødalsbreen
Bødalen is one of the side valleys of Lodalen , and here you will find the characteristic Bødalssetra, and a great trail further into Bødalsbreen. Bødalen is located in Jostedalsbreen National Park, and is a popular starting point for hikes to the Queen of the West, Lodalskåpa 2083 m above sea level. The trail from the parking lot into the glacier is an easy and child-friendly hike that is suitable for everyone.
Bødasbreen
Kjenndalen and Kjenndalsbreen
At the end of Lodalen starts Kjenndalen, known for its dramatic mountain slopes and a cozy restaurant by the water's edge. Here you can enjoy traditional food and a coffee break. Feel free to take a trip through Lodalen by boat on Lovatnet. MS Kjenndal has guided tours on board on selected dates.
Kjenndalsbreen
A valley with a strong history
Lodalen asks for a dramatic history. In both 1905 and 1936, large landslides occurred from Ramnefjellet. The landslides led to floods in Lovatnet that hit the villages hard – 135 people lost their lives. The tragedies have left deep traces in local history, and Lodalen to more than just beautiful nature. Read more about the dramatic events here. There are several cultural monuments here, and a stop at the memorial plaque and a walk along the historical hiking trail from the memorial plaque are recommended. Loen Active can provide a guide.
Why is the water so green?
Lovatnet has the characteristic green-turquoise color due to glacial silt – small clay particles and rock dust from the glaciers that are carried by the rivers. When the sun shines, the water takes on an almost magical glow – perfect for a photo stop, a leisurely boat ride or just to gaze.
