Hemsedal - The Scandinavian Alps - is known as one of Scandinavia's largest ski resorts, and has mountains that resembles those further south in Europe. Located midway between Oslo and Bergen, Hemsedal ski resort is an attractive weekend destination for people from all over Norway, and beyond. Resort has been voted Norway's best ski resort several times.
Hemsedal ski resort
The main lifts are about a 30 minute walk from the downtown area, but a free shuttle bus runs regularly through the day.
The highest mountain in the ski area is Totten, with a height of 1,450 metres. Hemsedal ski resort offers adventurous skiing from three different peaks with 20 lifts and 51 slopes (44 kilometres of slopes). From the top of the mountain, you will find wide slopes suitable for every level. These often go all the way to the base station, which means you can enjoy long descents. The ski area is a pleasant combination of steep, bald mountains and slopes through the forests.
Freeride skiing in the forest or on untouched mountainsides attracts many people looking for a challenge. The resort is also well suited for those looking to try out off-piste for the first time. The terrain is extremely forgiving, and the majority of off piste areas are close to groomed runs.
Hemsedal has a Fun Ride with jumps, balls and a roundabout that is built to suit everyone, from smaller children to experienced drivers.
A little to the right of the facility are the slightly larger parks, Snow Park red and Snow Park blue, with jumps, rails and boxes. Hemsedal also has a ski cross track and an arena with gates for giant slalom with timing. Freestylers will get to enjoy one of the best parks in Europe, and theres a load of good accessible back country routes,” said the World Snowboarding Guide.
The children's area in Hemsedal is located at the bottom of the ski resort, right next to SkiStar Lodges. Here there are bowl lifts and conveyor belts, and green, easy ski slopes for skiers of all ages. In the children's area, there is also Valle's ski land with Valle figures, and a mini-park with small jumps and elements.
Hemsedal village
Hemsedal is a small town in Norway with ca 2000 inhabitants. In the village, you will find the atmosphere of exclusivity, most accommodations are super modern. Luxurious hotels, such as Skarsnuten, and large chalets decorated by designers can be found directly on the mountain. As a result, many of these accommodations are ski-in / ski-out. Of course, it is also possible to stay in the village itself. The distance from the village to the slopes is a little bit further, but from here, a ski bus runs all day to the slopes and back.
Norway in general isn't known for its nightlife, but après-ski in Hemsedal is often on a par with European resorts.
On weekdays, it is calm in the village and on the slopes. How different it is on the weekend, when all of Hemsedal turns into a village where the roof goes off. Hemsedal is also known as the après ski destination of Scandinavia and has even been voted one of the best in Europe. You will find trendy bars and restaurants in the village, where you can enjoy both local cuisine and international dishes. Here are a few popular options:
Located near the ski slopes, Skistua is a popular après-ski spot offering a lively atmosphere, drinks, snacks, and sometimes live music.
Bjerkeløkkja Restaurant & Pub: This spot combines a restaurant serving local specialties with a pub-like setting offering a variety of drinks.
Säuling Gastronomi & Bar: great option for dining and drinks, known for its quality food and relaxed atmosphere. Harahorn Hotel Restaurant & Bar this establishment offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with a restaurant serving traditional Norwegian dishes and a bar area where you can enjoy drinks and relax. The Skogstad Hotell has a nightclub open late.