Vats: Bergsjøen, hiking and the mountain church

Vats combines mountain scenery, fishing at Vatsfjorden and cultural history around Rødungen. When choosing a destination, specific activities can make the difference: in Vats, a loop trail circles Bergsjøen, there are fishing spots from the shore at the fjord, and Vats mountain church is a prominent landmark in the Bergsjø area. The following highlights can help you plan your stay around the things that interest you.

Hiking around Bergsjøen

The Bergsjøen rundt loop is about 8.5 kilometres long and circles the entire lake. It is in the mountain area near Bergsjøstølen. Along the way, the route follows a good trail through open terrain, with views of Reineskarvet and several rest areas. The hike is suitable for families and hikers of all ages, offering a peaceful mountain experience without challenging climbs.

Several boardwalk sections make it easier to get through wet areas. So, as well as open countryside, boardwalks are part of the character of the route. At the end of the loop, there is a self-service kiosk at Bergsjøstølen Fjellstue. As its opening hours may change independently of the route, check whether the kiosk is open before your visit.

Fishing at Vatsfjorden

You can fish for Arctic char and trout in Vatsfjorden in both summer and winter. Easy-to-reach fishing spots from the shore are especially common on the west side, where the road runs along the lake. Designated parking areas are available along the lake. This helps you plan fishing based on the season and the shore you prefer: the fish species mentioned and the seasonal opportunity apply in both summer and winter, while the shore spots highlighted in particular are on the west side.

Vats mountain church and traces of history

Vats mountain church was completed in 1990 and is located near Rødungen in the Bergsjø area. As a prominent landmark, it is important to hikers, cabin residents and visitors. Services are held during the winter season, at Easter, on Christmas Eve and during some of the summer months. If you plan to attend a service, check the specific dates in advance.

The landscape around Rødungen also bears traces of earlier use. Between Holustølen and Osestølen, there are remains of older facilities for charcoal and iron production, as well as traces of historic settlement. Alongside today’s opportunities for hiking and fishing, these remnants give the area an additional cultural and historical dimension.

Mountain views and winter planning

The Vats/Bergsjø area includes the distinctive Reineskarvet, which rises to 1,791 metres; the mountain is within view on the Bergsjøen rundt loop. Rødungsberget is 1,248 metres high and offers views across Hallingdal and Skarvheimen. There are two starting points for the hike to Rødungsberget: a car park at Rødungstøl Høyfjellshotell and a large car park along Tovikvegen.

During the winter half of the year, Skarslia Ski og Akesenter operates when snow conditions allow. The road along Vatsfjorden is also cleared in winter. To drive to Vats and the Bergsjø area, turn off Rv 7 at Hallingmøblar and follow Nordbygdvegen for about 16 kilometres. This approximate distance helps you find your way on the access road; check current road conditions separately when planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: Torpo, Ål.

Go to the main travel overview: Ål.