Østerbø Fjellstove Discover the beautiful and historic Aurlandsdalen

Known for its steep mountains, deep rivers, lush greenery and stunning landscapes, Aurlandsdalen is one of Norway’s most beloved natural areas. The historic mountain lodge Østerbø Fjellstove is the perfect base for exploring this breathtaking area.

Known as Norway’s Grand Canyon, Aurlandsdalen is a 40-kilometre valley stretching across dramatic landscapes. Due to its varied terrain and rich cultural history, it is a top destination for those looking to experience the wild, untouched nature of Norway’s Vestland.

Historically, the Aurlandsdalen valley has provided one of the most important connections between the eastern and western parts of Norway. The valley route between Hol and Aurland, going past Østerbø, has been a crucial trade and transport route for hundreds of years and may have been used as early as the Viking Age.

Østerbø Fjellstove is the ideal base for getting to know the fascinating area. Østerbø’s official roots as a farmstead date back to 1626, and several of its current buildings have been preserved since 1740. The old farm first started welcoming overnight visitors in 1938 and has since become a well-known mountain resort.

“We enjoy sharing our unique history and traditions with visitors, and I hope history will live on here for a very long time,” says Østerbø Fjellstove’s manager, Sandra Johannsen.

Where past meets present

Located 820 metres above sea level, the charming mountain lodge of Østerbø offers an interesting fusion of old and new on the Norwegian mountainside. With agricultural and shoemaking tools from bygone eras and old pictures gracing the walls, Østerbø Fjellstove is steeped in history and splendid nature.

“Our guests often say that this place is unique,” Johannsen says. “There’s a certain peace and quiet here. I think the stunning natural scenery helps people slow down and find calm and stillness.”

The historic Østerbø Fjellstove is a tranquil spot nestled within spectacular natural surroundings, perfect for exploring.

Visitors to Østerbø Fjellstove can have their pick between accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly sleeping quarters with shared bathrooms to self-contained, rustic mountain cabins with a sauna and fireplace. Spacious luxury apartments with a fantastic view are also available, as well as modern, comfortable hotel rooms. During the summer season, visitors can stay in tents, camper vans and mobile homes at Østerbø Fjellstove’s campsite.

“There’s a lot of variety in terms of our accommodation – we want there to be something to suit everyone,” Johannsen says. “No matter what option they choose, our guests often tell us this is a homely, cosy place to stay.”

Traditional Norwegian fare

Culinary experiences are an important part of getting to know a place, and Østerbø Fjellstove’s restaurant offers a delicious à la carte menu focused on traditional Norwegian fare. The team values local ingredients, sourcing as much as possible of their meat, fish and vegetables from the region’s farmers, and using herbs from their small herb garden.

“Among our most popular dishes are salmon, mountain trout, homemade meatballs, reindeer steak and elk meat cakes,” Johannsen says. “Rømmegrøt (traditional Norwegian porridge made with sour cream) and our waffles are also very sought after – people come back again and again for our food!”

Østerbø Fjellstove is also an excellent venue for conferences and events, welcoming both small and large groups. The conference hall, Fjøsen, seats 50 people and is well-equipped with everything you need for a successful event. Food, drinks and snacks can be provided according to the group’s needs.

Adventures in nature

Located in a quiet area with little traffic, Østerbø is the perfect base for exploring the area’s many activities and sights while staying in a peaceful spot. The idyllic villages of Aurland and Flåm are close at hand, and the Flåmsbana railway is among the region’s most-loved attractions, as well as the breathtaking viewpoint Stegastein.

“A lot of people come to enjoy the beautiful scenery and nature, and with so much going on no matter the time of year, the varied outdoor activities are a major draw,” says Johannsen.

A fantastic year-round destination, Aurlandsdalen is home to some of the country’s best hiking routes. There are plenty of short, family-friendly hikes as well as challenging routes suitable for experienced hikers and mountain climbers. On top of this, the mountain lodge is just a stone’s throw from the lovely lake Aurlandsvatnet, which has fantastic opportunities for rowing, canoeing and fishing.

The winter in Aurlandsdalen has a particularly magical quality to it, with exciting activities such as skiing, ice fishing, ice climbing, snowshoeing and more. Visitors to the area may also experience the enchanting northern lights during their stay.

Finally, the region boasts varied flora and fauna, meaning it’s a veritable paradise for those interested in animals, birds and plant life. In fact, the valley is home to almost 500 plant species, including the wildflower bergfrue (Saxifraga cotyledon), which was chosen as Norway’s national flower in 1935 and is considered one of the country’s most beautiful mountain plants.

Web: www.aurlandsdalen.com
Facebook: Østerbø Fjellstove AS
Instagram: @osterbofjellstove