Gudbrand Valley

Gudbrand Valley (Gudbrandsdalen) is a valley and traditional district in the Norwegian county of Oppland. The valley is oriented in a north-westerly direction from Lake Mjøsa and the town of Lillehammer, and extends approximately 230 kilometers towards the town of Åndalsnes.

Geography

The Gudbrand Valley is surrounded by the mountain areas of Jotunheimen, Rondane, and Dovrefjell. The valley is divided into three parts: the North Gudbrand Valley (Norddalen), the Middle Gudbrand Valley (Midtdalen), and the South Gudbrand Valley (Sørdalen). The River Gudbrandsdalslågen flows through the valley, starting from Lake Lesjaskogsvatnet and ending in Lake Mjøsa.

History

The Gudbrand Valley has a rich history dating back to the Viking Age. It is mentioned in the Heimskringla, a collection of sagas about the Norwegian kings. The valley was an important route for pilgrims during the Middle Ages, leading to the Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim.

Culture

The Gudbrand Valley is known for its distinctive culture, which includes traditional Norwegian music, dance, and food. The valley is the birthplace of the traditional Norwegian dance, Halling, and the traditional Norwegian dish, Rakfisk.

Economy

The economy of the Gudbrand Valley is primarily based on agriculture, with a focus on dairy and meat production. The valley is also known for its tourism industry, with popular attractions including the Maihaugen open-air museum in Lillehammer and the Hunderfossen Family Park.

See also

• Geography of Norway
• History of Norway
• Culture of Norway
• Economy of Norway