Folldal

Folldal, with its just over 1 500 residents, is somewhat of a melting pot. Not only do Norwegians call this place home, but also people from Brazil, Eritrea, the Philippines, Greenland, China, the Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Somalia, Thailand, and Ukraine.

«People help each other here, and there’s a warm sense of togetherness. Most people know each other, which creates a tight bond in everyday life as well as during special occasions. The presence of so many nationalities adds a wealth of new perspectives, traditions, and cultures to the village,» Bjørn explains.

One person who has come from afar is Ukrainian Lara Cherniaieva. Like so many others, she had to flee when the war broke out and has since settled in Folldal. It was here that she met Bjørnar, and after a while the romance blossomed. Now they are engaged, have bought a house, and Lara has started her own business—a hair salon—in the village.

«We bought a house in the center of Folldal and divided it into two parts. In one section, I’ve opened my hair salon, and I absolutely love the beautiful view from the big windows. The other part of the house will be our home, for me and my fiancé,» says a delighted Lara.

Folldal is the administrative center of Folldal municipality, and the air here is guaranteed fresh! As Norway’s highest-lying municipal center (713 meters above sea level), it is securely located between the majestic blue mountains. The area is characterized by breathtaking nature and idyllic mountain valleys. Serving as the gateway to both Rondane and Dovre National Parks, it offers access to some of Norway’s most stunning protected landscapes. In fact, nearly nine-tenths of the municipality’s area is reserved as national parks or wildlife zones dedicated to preserving the wild reindeer population. This truly is the realm of the wild reindeer!

The landscape is dramatic, shaped by the forces of the Ice Age. It’s the perfect spot for those who love tranquility, nature, and rich traditions—and, perhaps most notably, the absence of light pollution. As Bjørn explains, many locals make nature an essential part of their everyday lives.

Summers in the highlands can be warm and pleasant, while winters are often cold and dry. Bjørn appreciates both, and certain times he feels extra grateful for having moved here.

«When I see the Rondane massif at sunrise, sunset, during the blue hour, or bathed in sunlight—throughout all seasons—I’m always struck by the magnificence of this mountain landscape. After a brisk hike, hearing the snow crunch beneath my feet at minus 35 or 40 degrees Celsius, or when the local community gathers for a festival or event, I often feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for living here,» he explains.

The nature here is renowned far beyond the country’s borders for its extraordinary beauty. In fact, Folldal is part of the Scenic Route Rondane, certain roads in Norway that run through unique nature. Along these specific roads, people will find artworks, viewpoints and rest areas with innovative architecture in beautiful landscapes. The status as a Scenic Route is only given to the cream of the crop, so to speak.

Folldal’s residents have numerous ways to connect, with nature and culture often at the heart of it. We’ve mentioned the many creative opportunities for children and adults, but Folldal is also a paradise for outdoor activities. Organized sports like soccer, skiing, and biathlon are popular, alongside activities like hunting, fishing, and dog sledding. For those who prefer to stay indoors, you’ll find everything from yoga to spinning and martial arts.

There are also many local traditions that bring the community together, as Bjørn explains.

«From community hall parties around the holidays, to local revues and concerts, the entire village gathers for the 17th of May celebrations, May Day parades, and bonfires on the mountaintops on New Year’s Eve. In the fall, hunting teams unite, and people head to the forests to forage for berries and mushrooms. And let’s not forget our huge, popular flea market every year!»

Bjørn is passionate about the opportunities for children to grow up in Folldal.

«They ride bikes, go sledding, and the school organizes snow cave trips and sheep gathering as part of the curriculum. What a rich upbringing they get here in Folldal,» he says with enthusiasm.

This little melting pot of the north certainly is a treasure chest of possibilities.