Folkestad
Startpoint for the infamous hike up Galten
Folkestad is a village in Volda municipality with a population of around 300 residents. The village is home to a kindergarten, primary and elementary schools, sports teams, and more. Separated from Volda by Voldsfjorden, the ferry route from Folkestad to Volda was once a key part of the E39 highway before it was rerouted. However, the ferry remains a vital link in the local road network, connecting surrounding villages.
Agriculture has traditionally been a cornerstone of life in Folkestad, but other industries also thrive here. The company Mowi operates a salmon breeding facility, and the Storelva river plays an important role, housing the Folkestad Kraftverk hydroelectric plant.
Folkestad is well-known in Volda for being the starting point for the hike up the mountain Galten. On some internet blogs and in hiking guides for tourists Galten's peak is also described as a "miniature version of Trolltunga", the famous stone platform in the south of Norway that can be seen all over social media lately. Check out the hike yourself and see why.
The hike in detail: Galten