Attractions and Places To See around Ål - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Ål, nestled in Norway's Hallingdal valley, offer a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. This predominantly mountainous region, with approximately 80% of its area above 900 meters, provides a setting for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from rivers and lakes to high mountain trails. The area also features cultural sites and family-friendly attractions.
Best attractions and places to see around Ål
- The most popular attractions is Top of Hydnefossen Waterfall, a waterfall that offers a unique experience at its edge. While the waterfall itself is not visible from this point, the location provides a notable feeling of being high up.
- Another must-see spot is Stone Bridge Crossing at Lake Øyangen, a bridge over a lake. Visitors can expect to potentially wade through water, requiring appropriate footwear, especially during high water levels.
- Visitors also love National Cycle Route 4 and 5, a cycle way. This route offers a quiet alternative to busier main roads, featuring some elevation gains.
- Ål is known for its mountain landscapes, cultural sites, and diverse outdoor activities. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from historical landmarks to natural features.
- The attractions around Ål are appreciated by the komoot community, with 18 upvotes and 4 photos shared for the highlights.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Giant Sparkstøtting (kick sled)
Highlight • Monument
A kick sled (short for Norwegian sparkstötting) is a form of transportation and sports equipment that is particularly common in Scandinavia. It can be used on ice and snow and is often used as a bicycle replacement in winter.
In the traditional construction, a kick sled is used to transport two people and consists of a chair built on two wooden or metal runners, with two handles attached to the backrest as handlebars. By twisting the wrought-iron runners, the sled can also be steered with a transport load in larger radii (several meters). One person can take a seat and is pushed on the sled by a second person. On downhill and gliding sections, the pusher can stand on the skids. Modern sports kick sleds have no seat, but only consist of runners and handlebars.
Sparkstøtting is widespread in Norway, Sweden and Finland. Clearing snow requires a certain amount of traffic, so loose snow becomes firmly compacted and forms the ideal route. The heavy traffic pushes the snow away, making it difficult to pedal. Sprinkled with gravel or salt is also an obstacle to kicking. In this way, the kick has largely survived in the peripheral areas.
Source: Wikipedia
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Stone Bridge Crossing at Lake Øyangen
Highlight • Bridge
Good shoes required or barefoot!
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National Cycle Route 4 and 5
Highlight • Cycleway
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Dr. Holms Hotel
Highlight • Rest Area
Doctor Ingebrikt Christian Holm was a specialist in respiratory diseases. In 1909 he used his knowledge and founded the Dr. Holms Høifjeldshotel. At first it was Dr. Holms Hotel was a sanatorium for wealthy people who benefited from the fresh mountain air.
In 1916 Dr. Holm the hotel and the following year it was sold to Hotelcompagnie a/s. dr Holm's former sanatorium became a magnet for wealthy families from Oslo and Bergen, as well as nobles from Denmark and England.
Source: drholms.no
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Top of Hydnefossen Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
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Tips from the Community
After rainy days, you have to be prepared for wet feet at the two “fish bridges” near the start and finish car park (personal experience).
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It was very nice 🤩 today the weather was great and it was very pleasant and warm
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Crossing was not passable on 29-6-2024, which will be the case more often (high water and strong current)
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This huge model of a Sparkstøtting can be seen in the Geilo center A kick sled (short for Norwegian sparkstötting) is a form of transportation and sports equipment that is particularly common in Scandinavia. It can be used on ice and snow and is often used as a bicycle replacement in winter. In the traditional construction, a kick sled is used to transport two people and consists of a chair built on two wooden or metal runners, with two handles attached to the backrest as handlebars. By twisting the wrought-iron runners, the sled can also be steered with a transport load in larger radii (several meters). One person can take a seat and is pushed on the sled by a second person. On downhill and gliding sections, the pusher can stand on the skids. Modern sports kick sleds have no seat, but only consist of runners and handlebars. Sparkstøtting is widespread in Norway, Sweden and Finland. Clearing snow requires a certain amount of traffic, so loose snow becomes firmly compacted and forms the ideal route. The heavy traffic pushes the snow away, making it difficult to pedal. Sprinkled with gravel or salt is also an obstacle to kicking. In this way, the kick has largely survived in the peripheral areas. Source: Wikipedia
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Very nice paths - away from the main road. A little more ups and downs, of course.
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On the same day that King Haakon VII opened the Bergen Railway in Geilo, Dr. Holms Sanatorium opened its doors. Doctor Ingebrikt Christian Holm was a specialist in respiratory diseases. In 1909 he used his knowledge and founded the Dr. Holms Høifjeldshotel. At first it was Dr. Holms Hotel was a sanatorium for wealthy people who benefited from the fresh mountain air. In 1916 Dr. Holm the hotel and the following year it was sold to Hotelcompagnie a/s. dr Holm's former sanatorium became a magnet for wealthy families from Oslo and Bergen, as well as nobles from Denmark and England. Source: www.drholms.no
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Nice route. Caution: traffic to the quarry and some deep potholes.
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Be sure to bring waterproof shoes or a towel for your feet. When the water level is high you have to wade through the river
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of outdoor activities can I enjoy in Ål?
Ål is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities. You can explore majestic mountains and lush valleys through hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. The Hallingdalselva river and numerous mountain lakes are perfect for fishing, swimming, and canoeing. In winter, Ål transforms into a haven for cross-country and downhill skiing, kiting, and backcountry skiing. For specific routes, you can explore Road Cycling Routes around Ål, Running Trails around Ål, and MTB Trails around Ål.
Are there good hiking trails around Ål?
Yes, Ål boasts miles of hiking trails for all levels, from easy family-friendly walks to more strenuous mountain routes. Popular trails include the View from Mørehovda – Waterfall loop from Bergsjøstølen, the Waterfall – Bukketjørne Ford loop from Skarsgard, and the Dyna – Dyna Summit loop from Torpo. The Bergsjø area is an excellent base for hiking. You can also find running trails like the Vangebrue Bridge loop from Ål, which is a moderate 9.8 km route.
What historical or cultural sites can I visit in Ål?
Ål offers a rich cultural heritage. You can visit the historic Torpo Stave Church, built around 1190-1200, or the Ål Stave Church Museum in Prestegardslåven, which displays decorative panels and information about stave churches. The Hallingdal Museum, with its open-air museum in Ål Bygdamuseum, showcases traditional local life. Don't miss the Ål Cultural Centre, which hosts various events and features exhibitions by artist Rolf Nesch and the 'Hallingrosa' rosemaling.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Ål?
Absolutely! Ål is great for families. The Hallingdal Feriepark (Hallingdal Holiday Park) is a five-star campsite with a climbing park (Høyt & Lavt), zipline, adventure golf, bike park, and an indoor play area. You can also enjoy sledding at Skarslia, Norway's largest toboggan center, or try frisbee golf at Hallingkast Frisbeegolfpark. A unique sight is the Giant Sparkstøtting (kick sled) in Geilo, a fun photo opportunity.
What are some unique natural features to explore in Ål?
Beyond the general mountain landscapes, you can experience the dramatic Top of Hydnefossen Waterfall, which offers a unique feeling of being high up, even if the waterfall itself isn't visible from that point. Another distinctive spot is the Stone Bridge Crossing at Lake Øyangen, where you might need waterproof shoes or be prepared to wade through water, especially during high water levels.
Where can I go mountain biking in Ål?
Ål is renowned for its mountain biking, offering some of Norway's best trails, including high mountain paths, forest routes, and trails near the town center. A new flow trail specifically designed for mountain biking opened above the Ål train station in 2021. You can find various routes, including the Red Flow Trail to Fyri Hotell or The Forgotten Trail. For more options, check out MTB Trails around Ål.
What unique experiences can I have in Ål?
Ål offers several unique experiences. You can enjoy traditional homemade food like sour cream porridge at the Fagerdalen Summer Mountain Farm, often reached by horseback riding tours. There are also unique sauna experiences, including one in the high mountains with panoramic views and another by the river near the town center. Horseback riding tours in the high mountain terrain around Skarslia and Bergsjø are also popular.
When is the best time to visit Ål for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Ål depends on your preferred activities. For hiking, mountain biking, and water sports like canoeing and fishing, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are ideal. For winter sports such as cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, and sledding, December to April offers excellent snow conditions.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Ål?
Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning natural beauty and the sense of adventure. For instance, the Top of Hydnefossen Waterfall is described as a 'terrific experience' that leaves a lasting memory, even if the waterfall isn't directly visible. The National Cycle Route 4 and 5 is appreciated as a quiet and relaxed alternative to busier roads, despite some elevation gains.
Are there options for cycling in Ål?
Yes, Ål offers excellent cycling opportunities. The National Cycle Route 4 and 5 provides a quiet and scenic alternative to main roads, though it includes some elevation gains. Ål is also renowned for its mountain biking trails, and you can find various road cycling routes. For more detailed options, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Ål guide.
Can I go swimming or fishing in Ål?
Yes, the Hallingdalselva river, which forms Strandafjorden, and the approximately 50 mountain lakes in Ål are excellent for both swimming and fishing. Trout fishing is particularly popular. Remember to check local regulations for fishing permits.
What winter sports are popular in Ål?
During winter, Ål is a popular destination for snow activities. It features over 400 kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails, with Bergsjøstølen being a great starting point. The Ål ski resort offers 13 kilometers of downhill slopes, including the challenging Svartebergløypa run. Kiting and backcountry skiing are also popular in areas like Bergsjøstølen, and you can enjoy sledding at Skarslia.
Most popular attractions around Ål
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