Valdres

Fagernes

Since prehistoric times, the Valdres Valley has been less isolated than many areas of Norway. As far back as the middle ages, a route through Valdres was the most popular way to travel between Oslo and Bergen over the Filefjell.

Medieval law decreed that the road had to be wide enought for a horseman to ride carrying his spear crosswise. Between 1793 and 1858, the road was decreed "Den Bergenske Kongevegan," the offical king's road or royal highway, linking Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Trondheim, Hamar, and Trømsø.

The road was constructed completely using hand tools. Its bridges were toll crossings. Because the road was well-traveled, mail and the latest news of Norway and even the rest of the world reached Valdres much more easily than many more remote areas.  

The farmers along the road were charged with maintaining the road and also providing shelter for those traveling along it. Since 1858, the road has enjoyed protected status and parts of it are maintained for use by hikers and bicyclers.

Photos and information: Ruthanne Hendrickson Henderson