A knee injury put an end to Kaia Finne's skiing career. Now, she's passionate about showing everyone the hidden skiing gems around Myrkdalen. "Skiing and the fjords in our area is a magical combination few have experienced so far," she says.
"The ultimate feeling of happiness is standing at the top of the slope and looking down – just before you set off," says Kaia Finne. The former national team freestyle skier knows what she's talking about.
Only after many years of skiing around the world she came to appreciate the qualities of her home region, Voss, and the fjord landscape around Flåm. Now, she wants to share it with everyone.
“The landscape here is as raw as it gets. Vast and dramatic, and the winter light in Nærøyfjord is both magical and steeped in mystery.”
As a former business manager at Destinasjon Myrkdalen, she’s unstoppable. Always on the move, just like the experiences she is passionate about bringing to others.
"Imagine that many of my skiing friends haven't been to the fjords in winter. How many Norwegians have been here? Many dream of crossing Greenland with a sled or powder skiing in Canada. But why travel so far when we can have equally amazing experiences here in Norway?" she asks.
It's easy to combine a skiing holiday in Myrkdalen with fjord experiences. This way, you get even more out of your ski holiday, and you'll probably experience this before everyone else. Kaia has arranged everything for a seamless journey.
"Hop on the train from Oslo or Bergen, and we'll take you to Myrkdalen from Voss station. Here, you can enjoy the most complete ski resort in Western Norway and one of the most snow-sure places in Norway. We'll take you there when you wish to experience the fjord," Kaia eagerly explains.
She points out that there are many options by the fjord. Some choose ski touring to mountain Presten, which offers views of the fjord. Others opt for off-piste skiing in the area around Vatnahalsen in Flåmsdalen.
Others again feel their pulse slowing down on a serene boat trip between Gudvangen and Flåm, experiencing the dramatic winter light in the fjord landscape. They might also finish the day with a dip in the sea after a steaming hot sauna.
Do you want to make a round trip out of it? Take the Flåm Railway to Myrdal station and, from there, a train back to Oslo or Bergen. This is a round trip based on sustainable choices, which Finne is proud of.
The active lady has a strong need for fresh air and open nature and has been fond of mountains and wilderness since childhood. Play is essential to Kaia, even without skis.
That's why Kaia also ensures that everyone can enjoy the winter magic in Myrkdalen.
"Here, you don't have to be a skier - feel free to enjoy nature in other ways. Experience lots of snow and joy through dog sledding, tobogganing, or horse-drawn sleight rides. When people are active outdoors, the experience doubles," she says, emphasising:
"Myrkdalen is fortunate to have the fjord so close by. In this World Heritage area, we find the longest, deepest, narrowest, and most beautiful fjord on earth, with many hidden gems. You simply have to come and experience it for yourself!"
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