Landscape conservation

In the 1960s, the major development of hydroelectric power in Norway began. The Innerdalen valley, with its steep mountains and many rivers, immediately became interesting for power generation.

The then landowner Øystein Opdøl chose to turn down good power revenues and wanted to avoid development. He wanted to preserve nature so that future generations would be able to experience the special landscape in Innerdalen.

This was a very unusual attitude from a landowner, but together with the Norwegian Tinde Club, he took the initiative to preserve his own property. 

This work led to the establishment of the country's first landscape conservation area in Innerdalen back in 1967, with an area of 73 square kilometers.

The purpose of protecting Innerdalen is to preserve a beautiful natural landscape which, due to its topography, watercourses and vegetation, has significant recreational and scientific value.

Øystein Opdøl's thoughts on environmental protection and sustainable use of nature in the 1960s are still valid today.

Since the valley is protected, it is not possible to drive to Renndølsetra, with the exception of driving to the tourist cabins. It only takes a little over an hour to get to the setra on foot. When you walk, you spend more time and get a greater experience of nature.