From a flood-lit stadium to the wide mountain expanses. The 160-km cross-country trail network in Hovden and Bykle ranges from sheltered forest terrain to the wide expanses above the treeline. There are trails suitable for the youngest children and beginners, for those who want to explore the mountains, and for those who have athletic ambitions. The trails are groomed daily for classic and skate.
All the cross-country trails are connected in a network, and with an elevation ranging from 750 to 1200 m.a.s.l., the variations are great. In good weather conditions you may bring the whole family along, or explore the wide mountain expanses, either on you own or in the company of other experienced cross-country skiers.
The Hovden cross-country stadium is also a part of this extensive trail network. It is centrally located at Hovden, in more sheltered surroundings than the other trails, and fairly well protected from heavy winds.
The cross-country stadium and the surrounding trails are suitable for elite skiers as well as beginners. It is often used for major events, such as the national cross-country cup. However, it is also a perfect spot for families with children. There are also floot-lit trails of approximately 10 kilometres, and the lights remain on every night until 11 PM.
No matter where you stay at Hovden, there is a nearby cross-country trail, making "ski out" and "ski in" an obvious choice. This also applies to centrally located shops and restaurants. The waterpark Hovden Fjellpark and the Hovden museum of iron production are located close to the cross-country trails. A visit to the museum will tell you how the vikings extracted iron from bor ore more than a thousand years ago.
Fuente: Setesdal