Hemsedal: On Norway's Perfect Slopes

Hemseldal has even more to offer. In the summer, the region invites you to go hiking, canoeing, fishing, cattle driving, or moose-watching. In the winter, Hemseldal, located halfway between Oslo and Bergen, is one of the most attractive winter sports areas in Scandinavia.

52 slopes with a total length of 26 miles and all conceivable levels of difficulty offer visitors to the local ski center perfect winter sports. And no one needs to worry about crowding. The perfectly groomed slopes are exceptionally wide.

And those who visit outside the high season, for example in March or April, almost never have to wait in line for one of the 24 lifts and can be quickly transported to heights of up to 4,921 feet - from Tuesday to Friday, lifts operate until 8:30 PM. Snow is usually sufficient from mid-November to early May.

Contrary to popular belief, prices are only slightly higher than those in ski resorts in Austria or Italy. A five-day ski pass, for instance, is available for about 200 euros, and a complete set of high-quality ski equipment costs around 150 euros.

Cross-country skiing is much cheaper. Using the trails is free, though there can be hefty parking fees. However, Hemseldal offers cross-country skiers a 130-mile-long network of trails. A particularly scenic view is offered by a varied high-altitude trail. Below lies a large reservoir slumbering under a thick layer of snow and ice, and in the distance is an impressive mountain panorama, which also includes a few fjords.

Experienced skiers with good stamina and a bit of courage can also venture into the Norwegian powder snow away from the slopes. However, no one should go alone. Through the Hemseldal tourist information, you can book guided group tours. The price for a seven-hour day is about 50 euros per person.

Or be pulled by huskies - a breathtaking experience: The first dog sled picks up speed, the others follow, and suddenly in Hemseldal, the mountainous world in the heart of Norway, all you hear is a smooth gliding and sliding. Each of the five sleds is pulled by six huskies, who enthusiastically pull the sled with their tongues often hanging out. The sled is closed at the back.

Only one person can sit. The second passenger must stand, steer, and regulate the pace. The driver has two foot brakes available, which, depending on pressure, anchor into the snow. When the dogs have free reign, they race over the snowy paths.

You can also make your way through the snowy mountains without skis, snowboards, or sled dogs. Hemseldal's specialties include snowshoe hiking. The yellow, chair-cushion-sized plastic snowshoes with spikes look a bit like duck feet. They are strapped under the shoes, with only the toes secured while the heel is free to move. It takes some getting used to, but even on the steepest slopes, the 'duck feet' provide grip. However, no one should get too reckless. Ignoring the guide's instructions can lead to slipping.

Some sections can only be tackled with the help of poles. The higher you climb, the thinner the air becomes. Those who make it to the summit can not only enjoy the breathtaking view over the solitary mountain world but also take pride in themselves. Every yard is hard-earned - all without the help of lifts or panting sled dogs.