This recommendation a bit unusual amidst the vast expanse of this esteemed blog. It's nothing more than a leisurely stroll lasting a mere hour and a half. Yet, if I were to skip sharing it, you would surely miss out on this hidden gem without a second thought and drive right past it.
Most tourists head to Besseggen, a place that needs no introduction for good reason of course (and please do go there and enjoy the remarkable views). But when one continues from Beitostølen and make your way across the lofty Valdresflye plateau—an adventure in itself—you'll eventually descend into a lower area. Surrounded by ancient, weathered summer farms, lush pastures, and clusters of evergreen groves, you'll spot a small car park on the right side, beyond which a bridge awaits.
This is the place you're looking for: Hulderstigen. The reason I want to capture this destination in words is that its allure has left an indelible mark on my consciousness, even though it's hard to describe. I first witnessed its wonders during the summer, as twilight gently descended, and we decided to go on a leisurely walk. The light had a golden hue, and the atmosphere was wonderfully calm. The paths wind through diverse landscapes, and the flora showcases an abundance of variations. There are rivulets and streams flowing, as well as peat bogs and peaceful ponds scattered across the scenery. Because of its topography, nestled in a valley of sorts, the woodland creatures there seem to stand taller than their counterparts elsewhere. It brings to mind the realm depicted in Tolkien's masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings.
As we ventured through this expanse, we felt like lone adventurers, hoping for a fleeting glimpse of a majestic moose. These magnificent creatures usually appear in the fading hours of the afternoon to feed and quench their thirst. Sadly, we didn't come across one on this occasion. We spent around 2.5 hours in sheer awe, marveling at the unimaginable beauty embraced by this small haven of nature. It's a detour that absolutely deserves your attention. I want to back, really.
**Getting there: it is most likely you'll arrive at Oslo Airport (OSL). Public transport doesn't really get you there, so it is most wise to reserve a car in advance. Since Norway has one of the best fast-charging networks in the world, I would advise you to rent an electric car. Better for the environment, cheaper to charge and it gets you everywhere. Check here for availability.