Nature and landscape
Loen is surrounded by tall, distinctive mountains with snow-covered peaks that rise straight up from the silvery surface of Nordfjorden. The contrasts are great, but the distances are short. Here you can experience fjord, valley and high mountains in the same day.
Further in from the village, Lodalen opens up, often described as one of the most beautiful valleys in Norway. The vivid green Lovatnet lies like a mirror between steep mountainsides, waterfalls and lush nature. The special colour comes from meltwater and glacial particles from Jostedalsbreen.
At the far end of the valley lies Kjenndalsbreen, the lowest glacier arm of Jostedalsbreen. The trip here is an experience in itself, with a beautiful drive along the lake and a short walk up to the glacier. Along Lovatnet you will also find the charming mountain pasture Breng, a popular stop for both photographers and hikers.
Towering above the village is Skåla (1848 m a.s.l.), known for Norway’s longest continuous uphill climb from fjord to summit. At the top you can stay overnight in the historic Skålatårnet or the DNT cabin Skålabu and enjoy the view towards Nordfjorden and Jostedalsbreen.
Culture and history
Lodalen bears a dramatic history that still leaves its mark on the area. In 1905 and 1936, large masses of rock slid from Ramnefjellet into Lovatnet and created flood waves that destroyed the villages of Nesdal and Bødal. In total, 135 people lost their lives. The Lodalen disaster is one of the greatest natural catastrophes in Norwegian history, and a walk through the valley gives a powerful insight into the events.
On the top of Skåla lies Skålatårnet, built in 1891 by the physician Hans Henrik Gerhard Kloumann as a place of recreation in fresh mountain air. Today, it is one of the best-known tourist cabins in Norway.
Hotel Alexandra has welcomed guests since 1884 and is one of the country’s most traditional hotels. Here, historic charm meets modern comfort, with a spa and facilities in beautiful surroundings by the fjord.
