Røldal Part III — Rainy Days

Benjamin Antoni Andersen

| October 13, 2020

The third day in Røldal sees rainclouds traveling across the layered mountains to cover the valley where we are huddled up in the small red cabin.

Rain, however, doesn’t mean we need to abstain from adventuring. It simply means we must get dressed against the elements. And maybe also do what we decide to — make it a roadtrip.

Inside red cabin in Norwegian Mountains — Maps out, rain falling — we are planning a road trip in the comfort of the little red cabin.

Casseroles in Norwegian Cabin — Maps out, rain falling — we are planning a road trip in the comfort of the little red cabin.

There is a path Asbjørn knows that will take us through the township of Røldal, then up and up on winding gravel paths that dig deep into the mountains.

The Blueberry Valley it is called.

Mountains in Røldal, Norway — The valley’s layered mountains and the small township of Røldal.

Cliffs in Røldal, Norway — The valley’s layered mountains and the small township of Røldal.

Cabin fever

Rain hangs thickly in the air as we take the narrow gravel road from the cabin and head towards the township. Here we will buy some road snacks and then head right up into the mountains.

Snack packed, we go.

As we first crest the top of the winding road, we see a cabin. A small old mountain cabin, that probably has been used by shepherds at some time in history.

The rain is already way lighter.

Shepherd cabin in the Norwegian mountains — The lonesome cabin in the hills.

The old faithful VW is on the road again, like so many times before. It makes for a spacious hangout while the rain occasionally comes pouring.

Roadtrip in Norway — The old faithful VW of my parents.

Your own personal glacier

At the end of the gravel road, which runs surprisingly far up the valley, we have to leave the car. That does not mean we have to stop though. There’s a path following a river further upwards, and at the top are small snow patches, that I like to call tiny glaciers.

One of those become our target.

Waterfall in Norway — Asbjørn in action.

Man photographing in Norway — Asbjørn in action.

The glaciers are small compared to the mountainous surroundings, but in reality I can walk fully upright under the crest of them.

Snow and river in Norway — Melting glaciers proving drinking water for the Norwegian people through the summer.

In the end we rest at the top and enjoy the view. A view that is far better enjoyed with a friend than alone.

Night falls, along with the rain

In the end we are back. Hungry, and ready for rest, we start cooking while the darkness wraps itself around the tiny red cabin. Tomorrow it’s time for the return home.