Monday, 12th July 2010
As there were no shops at all at Dragsvik, our first walk was to start from Balestrand where we would have time to stock up on provisions at the end of the walk. We caught the bus from the hotel and enjoyed a short scenic ride around Esefjord, a small branch of the Sognefjord that separates Dragsvik and Balestrand. Walking initially on easy tracks, often through woodland, we passed a couple of lookout points before finally stopping at Bruråsi for lunch. From this point the group were to complete a circular walk to return to Balestrand. Penny, Judy and I continued to climb on a steeper, rocky path with a number of false summits. Eventually we reached the summit, Raudmelen, 3,209 feet, where mandatory photographs were taken by a helpful visitor. We then retraced our route to return to Balestrand in time to do some shopping before catching the bus back to the hotel.
Scroll down to see photos of the walk
An early morning stroll . . .
and the sun shines on Raudmelen
Unfortunately, too early in the walk for a coffee stop
Esefjord, which we had travelled around to reach Balestrand
Coffee stop . . .
with views over Balestrand and Sognefjord
Interesting use of tree trunks
A short stop on the ascent . . .
and great views to enjoy
Our lunch stop, overlooking Esefjord . . .
where Peter poses precariously
Penny, Judy and I continue to climb the ridge . . .
to reach Raudmelen . . .
at 3,209 feet
All too soon it's time to head back . . .
but I don't think we'll take the short route!
Looking back to the summit
One of the colourful houses we saw
St Olaf's is an Anglican church . . .
built in the style of a Stave Church . . .
which has a beautiful interior . . .
with lots of carvings . . .
and the typical tiered roof