Galdane - Seltunåsen

From the parking area at Sjurhaugfossen, cross the Lærdalselva river, and after 100 meters, turn sharply left onto the King's Road of 1794. The legendary Olavklemma is the first experience you encounter. A little later, you reach the infamous Laukebargbakken, immortalized by Johannes Flintoe's sketch of a horse and cart, where the coachman hangs behind, trying to slow the wild descent down the steep hill. 

At Store Sokni, you cross a period-appropriate bridge, modeled after one from 1790, amidst the spray of the mighty waterfall. Here lies the crofter's farm, Galdane, with houses built on high walls against steep fields. It's an open oasis nestled between steep mountainsides, beautifully restored today and an excellent spot for a meal break. 

Further ahead, the path narrows, with just enough space for the road between the mountain and the river at the bottom of the valley. The road surface lies amidst scree between large boulders. When the road was a main thoroughfare, it could be unsafe here in winter and during the spring thaw when ice and snow melted, and meltwater and rockfalls threatened the mountainsides. On a summer day, however, it is simply idyllic, with the grass-covered path contrasting with the grey stone and mountains. 

You round the headland, and the landscape widens, making space for a small farm on the sandy plains between the mountain and the river, Seltøyni. Continue for another 800 meters and cross the Lærdalselvi river on a bridge near Seltun farm. Then, turn 180 degrees and walk upstream on the other side of the river back towards Sjurhaugfossen. 

It's about 1.2 kilometers on asphalt to a rest area, where the old road from 1845 over Seltunåsen branches off to the right and climbs steadily. The extensive use of stone walls to support the road surface over gullies and depressions makes this path much easier and faster to walk than the King's Road from 1794. 

After approximately 1 kilometer, the road flattens out, revealing a beautiful view over the river to the crofter's farm, Galdane. A few hundred meters further, you reach the gorge above Gravdalen, where the road surface rests on a 15-meter-high wall built by hand from natural stone. It makes a powerful impression. For the adventurous, there is a channel at the base of the wall through which it is still possible to pass. 

Further along, it's a lovely walk to Sjurhaugfossen and the parking area. Sjurhaugfossen is difficult for salmon to ascend, and an impressive and spectacular system of stairs and paths has been built down to the river for salmon anglers. The waterfall also features many large and beautiful potholes.

Along the way, you will encounter information signs and place-name signs that enrich the journey.