The serpent in Syltefjellet

Valldalsleden is based on Snorri's account when St. Olav came this way when he fled the country in the winter of 1028-1029. Olav was on the run, and was only accompanied by five ships with crew as he entered the fjord. There are many stories of St. Olavs and serpents, perhaps as a symbol of his inner and outer battles as he was working to bring christianity to his country.

It is said that when St. Olav approached Valldal, a sea serpent appeared. After having wrestled with the serpent, Olav threw the serpent up on the mountain wall. He threw it so hard that the serpent got stuck in the mountain, and one can still today see the mark that it left.

St. Olav and his company then preceded to Sylte where they went ashore. A cross is said to have been erected here, but if this is true then it's likely that the cross was lost in the flood in 1679. This flood devastated large parts of Sylte, including the church and cemetery.

Today, Sylte is a natural starting point for a hike along Valldalsleden. Pilgrim passports, guidebook and information can be acquired on the pier.