Vestland trip the mountains, waterfalls and nature.,

Hello, friends, travelers, and community greetings! Hope you all are doing well and having a good time with your loved ones.

During our 8-day car holiday in Western Norway, we stopped at many places. After crossing a fjord on a car ferry we drove uphill through sharp turns and narrow roads until we finally reached a normal road.

Which felt much more comfortable for both the driver(my husband) and me as a passenger. Gaula River, starting at Gaularfjell and down to the Viksdalen valley. There is a trail along the valley known as the waterfall walk. This trail, known as Fossestein, runs from the Gaular Mountains down through Viksdalen featuring 14 waterfalls and 7 lakes. Although the walk is not particularly strenuous, the forest and wetland areas can be uncomfortable in some places, totaling 21 kilometers in length. We managed to follow about 5 kilometers of the trail the next day.

After about an hour of driving, we arrived at our night halt, the Hov Hyttegrend, located right beside the Likholefossen waterfall.
The place is very cozy, featuring small, old Norwegian-Traditional huts with grass roofs. Since it was the very beginning of summer, it wasn't crowded. cozy small place with a small kitchen, bed, and outside bathrooms and washrooms. Able to park car close to hut. We refreshed ourselves and had some coffee, and before it got dark, we wanted to visit the famous waterfall that I had heard so much about from my husband. It was just a short walk to get there. Some visitors stop around the parking place just a few meters away and quickly visit the waterfall before moving on. But for me to spend just a few hours in this beautiful nature is not enough.

As soon as we saw the stunning Likholefossen with its refreshing flow of water, all of our stress and tiredness from the long drive faded away.

The area around the waterfall has become a key attraction along Highway 13. One of the highlights is a spectacular bridge built above the waterfall, which also provides access to the Waterfall Trail on the south side of the river.
This waterfall is part of the protected Gaularvassdraget.
The Likhol name has its origins in the valley farms, which were unable to transport their deceased to the church within one day. The coffins were then kept under a stone slab by the waterfall.

A waterfall embodies powerful natural forces and can appear quite dangerous. The currents are strong, the ground is often slippery and wet, and the cliffs are steep and high. Visitors should follow the marked path for safety. In winter, there is ice around the waterfall, and during spring, the water level rises significantly, making it seem even more formidable. When my husband attempted to walk in certain areas, I felt quite worried. Fortunately, some sturdy metal stairs help visitors enjoy their experience safely.
The long daylight and the beautiful serenity of nature made it difficult for us to leave. However, after a full day of traveling, our hunger and the calming environment began to take their toll on our bodies and minds. though it was still light in the northern summer, we headed to the hut for a late dinner and a good night's sleep.

The next day, after a refreshing sleep, a warm bath, and a simple breakfast, we embarked on another adventure. We tidied up the hut and packed the car, but since it was still too early to drive, we decided to take a stroll back to the falls and explore around the area.

While we arrived back at the camping place, we noticed this small rowboat in the water. With the notice, this is for guests who wish to take a boat tour in the lake below the falls. But do not venture too close to the waterfall.
My husband and I looked at each other, and without making any discussion we jumped into the boat.

It was a very fun hour we spent on the boat.
After the boat tour, I placed my #kindnessrock turtle at the waters edge.
https://ecency.com/@hindavi/kind-tortoise-went-to-western-mountains

We said thank you for this place and drove on for a new adventure.

After a few kilometers, there was another sign indicating the waterfall trail, Fossestein, we stopped and found the way to join that trail.
Before this old-style wooden plank bridge, we didn't want to miss crossing. It was very old but still the only connection from the farm across the cold but crystal clear river to the road. while walking on it, it was shaking like a swing so i doubt anybody has driven across it for years

After crossing that bridge, we headed to the Fossestein trail. That was quite an adventure and a stunning experience. I will explore it in another post.
Thank you for now.

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