Modalen: Fjord Landscape, Hiking Trails and Culture

Modalen lies by the Romarheimsfjord and the inner Mofjord, the innermost arm of the Osterfjord. This lets you decide whether to focus on short hikes, longer tours or the history of the area.

Fjord Scenery and Viewpoints

The landscape rises steeply on both sides of the Mofjord and the inner valley. At the head of the fjord, it reaches about 1,000 metres; farther inland, it rises to about 1,200 to 1,300 metres above sea level. Near the village of Mo, Kvernhusfossen plunges almost 100 metres vertically. A viewpoint by Nedstavatnet, beside an old dam above the waterfall, offers views of the innermost fjord scenery of the Osterfjord.

The Castle is a rock by the Mofjord that resembles a pulpit and rises steeply to a height of 200 metres. From the summit, you can see the village of Mo. The two-hour hike there is considered relatively easy and suitable for families with children. Seasonal trail conditions can change, so take them into account when planning.

Hikes in Stølsheimen

Modalen is one of the municipalities that make up the Stølsheimen Protected Landscape Area. Stølsdammen is a commonly used access point to the protected area from Modalen. From there, a trail leads towards the well-known summer-farm settlements of Solrenningane and Åsedalen. Another option is the hike to Nedstavatnet, which takes 30 to 40 minutes from the shared trailhead in Modalen.

For a multi-day hike, the route “Fra fjord til fjord i Stølsheimen” (From Fjord to Fjord in Stølsheimen) in the Modalen destination runs from Mo to Ortnevik. It covers 44 kilometres, is designed to take four to five days and includes overnight stays in DNT cabins. Seasonal conditions and cabin availability may vary. By comparison, the hike to Nedstavatnet can be planned as a shorter day-trip option; the longer route requires several days of hiking.

Church, Literature and Local Traditions

Since the Middle Ages, Mo has been the church site for the valley and the farms at higher elevations. The wooden long church, Mo kyrkje, dates from 1883. The chancel contains an altarpiece from 1893 as well as an older altarpiece from 1612. The village of Mo also has a memorial stone to the poet Olav Nygard, who was born at the mountain farm Krossen in upper Modalen. At Mostraumen, where the fjord narrows, there are Bronze Age rock carvings.

Sognafloren offers, among other things, Modalslefser, potato cakes and flatbread associated with local traditions. Since its restoration in 2015, the premises have been used for market days and the sale of baked goods. If you plan to visit a market or buy baked goods, check the current dates in advance.

More Things to Do During Your Stay

Mo has a sandy beach suitable for swimming in summer; water conditions and facilities may vary. Mobryggja in the centre of Mo has a guest harbour with 72 berths, although availability may vary. Bryggjeslottet in Mo includes a swimming pool, bowling alley, library, sports hall, sauna and weight room. If you plan to use any of these facilities, check current access arrangements in advance.

Aktiv i Modalen offers bicycle rental; check availability with the provider before your trip. The bus route from Bergen to Modalen includes transfers at Knarvik bus station and in Ostereidet. Check the timetable for your travel date. These practical differences help you coordinate your day trips and travel plans without having to combine hikes, cultural sites and local activities into a single itinerary.

Discover more destinations: Nesheim

Return to the main travel overview: Modalen.