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The Japanese Alps

 

This is the line for those of you who love winter and want to reach high mountain peaks to enjoy long downhill runs on skis! We focus on fast-paced activities in a good community with skiing, mountain hiking, trail cycling and surfing as the main focus. 

Valdres Folk High School Japan Mountain High School
You will get
experience
  • Japan!
  • Skiing in indescribably beautiful Japan
  • Morocco!
  • Surfing, Taghazout Bay
  • Camel riding
  • Sandboarding
  • ATV tours
  • Top tours on skis and on foot
  • Climb some of Norway's highest peaks on skis
  • Trail cycling in Valdres
  • Surfing City
  • Kite course
  • Paintball
  • Downhill
  • Deep powder
  • Hurrungane
  • Sogndal
  • Romsdalen
  • Amazing Race
  • Ice climbing
  • Canyoning
  • Basecamp in Jotunheimen
  • Avalanche theory
  • Ski lessons on and off the piste
  • Snow cave tour
  • And lots more!

Powder

Freeride Powder Valdres Folk High School

Surf - Waves

In Morocco and at Stadt.

Valdres Folk High School Freeride Surf Girl

What should we do?

The Freeride line gives you the opportunity to explore skiing, cycling and surfing – three activities that represent a lifestyle characterized by mastery, excitement and adventure. On skis, we focus on freeriding, where you learn to ride safely and in control off prepared trails. On bikes, we start with basic mountain biking and gradually challenge ourselves on tougher trails and steeper terrain. Surfing is also part of the program, where we build skills and technique for both beginners and those with some experience.

Common to these activities is the joy of challenging yourself, being outdoors and experiencing mastery in an inspiring community. With us you can develop skills, build memories and become part of an active lifestyle.

Is this line right for me?

Yes, without a doubt! On the Freeride line you don't need any prior knowledge – everyone is welcome here. It's about learning the activities from scratch, finding the joy in trying something new, and experiencing mastery in a safe environment. If you want, you're welcome!

Most are completely new to surfing, some have cycled a bit before, and many have experience with skiing, but not necessarily freeskiing. Physical fitness is not a requirement either, but it can make things easier.

The most important thing is that you want to learn, enjoy being outdoors, and want to be part of a community that supports and inspires. If that sounds like you, the Freeride line is right up your alley!

 

What equipment do I need?

You will receive an equipment list before school starts, but here is an overview:

You will need normal hiking equipment such as a good jacket and pants, sturdy hiking boots and a sleeping bag. For surfing we lend all the equipment. For cycling we keep a regular mountain bike, and the school has bikes to lend if you don't have your own. Should we need anything special like protective equipment or enduro and downhill bikes, the school will arrange it.

When skiing, you need freeride equipment, i.e. skis that can be used both for going uphill and downhill. Many people choose equipment that is too light, which results in poorer riding characteristics. Please wait to buy until you are here – then you will get help finding equipment that suits both you and our terrain.

Travel

Japan & Morocco

Experience Japan

Join us on an unforgettable journey to Japan! Legendary powder snow, perfect slopes for skiing and snowboarding, and a deep dive into Japan's unique culture await.

We spend our days at some of the country's best ski destinations, where the powder snow provides optimal conditions for free skiing. After a day on the slopes, you can relax in a traditional onsen - hot springs where both body and mind find peace.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, we will explore all the exciting things Japan has to offer. You will experience a fascinating mix of ancient tradition and modern lifestyle, with everything from culture and food to stunning scenery. There will also be opportunities to meet the locals and get an authentic insight into everyday life in Japan.

Community and togetherness are central to this trip. Together with your fellow students, you will share unique experiences, create memories for life, and build strong bonds – both on the mountain and in encountering Japanese culture.

This is the trip for those who want to combine winter adventure with rich cultural experiences. Japan awaits – are you ready for the challenge?

 

Morocco

Welcome to Taghazout Bay, Morocco

We hope you will join us for another trip - Taghazout Bay, Morocco! On this trip we will take you on an unforgettable journey filled with excitement, adventure and cultural experiences. We have one main focus on this trip and that is community and surfing. There will be many hours on the beach and on the surfboard.

You will explore the waves along Morocco's stunning coastline with experienced instructors, who will guide you through the surf lessons and ensure you feel safe and comfortable regardless of your skill level. In addition to surfing, we also welcome exciting activities such as sandboarding, surfskate lessons, camel riding and ATV tours - perfect for exploring the diverse and scenic surroundings around Taghazout Bay.

But that's not all! We also want to give you a taste of the rich culture and traditions of Morocco. Through culinary experiences, local excursions and exciting culture, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere and hospitality of this amazing country.

Join us on this incredible journey and be inspired by the beauty of Morocco while cultivating your passion for surfing and adventure!

 

Valdres Hoddevika Folk High School (1)

On two wheels in the mountains

Valdres Folk High School Freeride Bicycle

Hello.-)

I'm Sindre and I'm a Freeride instructor. Throughout the year, I want you to have great experiences that you'll remember for the rest of your life, and learn new skills that you'll enjoy after finishing your folk high school year.

I have a bachelor's degree in outdoor activities, a one-year study in sports, and a specialization in ski education with 15 credits. In addition to a year of PPU (practical-pedagogical education). I have also previously been a student and research fellow at Valdres Folkehøgskole.

Do you have any questions? Contact me!

Sindre Balstad

Finance and costs

Board and lodging
NOK 92,950
Board/lodging covers housing and food during the time the school is open.
Common costs
NOK 17,000
Electives, group trips, equipment rental, the same for all programs
Line costs
NOK 60,000
Covers everything on the trips for this line

How to finance your school year?

Some people think that folk high schools are expensive, but it is significantly cheaper to live in a boarding house at a folk high school than to live in a dormitory and pay for your own food. See the calculation example below:

School costs per month (9) (board, lodging, all travel and activities) NOK 18,883.
- Support from the Loan Fund per month (9) (stipend level for 26-27) Kr. 16169,-
You must cover yourself per month Kr. 918,-

More information

We have gathered all practical information about finances, insurance and other important things on one common page. On the Loan Fund's website you can also find more information and apply for support.

It's about daring.

A year of personal growth

 

Apply now
Valdres Folk High School Freeride Friends