Anniversary history
The adventure of alpine skiing in Aurdal started long before Valdres Alpinsenter as we know it today. Already in the 1950s, Danebu became a natural gathering place for skiing fun, and both Norwegian and international races were organized here – including the first Danish championships in slalom and giant slalom. Throughout the 60s and 70s, interest grew in both the village and on Aurdalsåsen, and many young talents had their first racing experiences right here.
When activity began to decline towards the end of the 70s, Aurdal IF's alpine community took action: the idea of a separate alpine center was born. After clearing trails, building lifts and a large volunteer commitment, Valdres Alpinsenter was finally ready. On January 1, 1986, the facility was officially opened - and already that same month, a cross-country race was organized with several later top alpinists at the starting line.
Over the years, the facility has grown in both scope and importance. Snow production in the late 1980s made us one of the country's most snow-sure facilities, and the 1990s and 2000s brought everything from a snowboarding environment, halfpipes and big jumps to good training conditions for new generations. Many famous names in alpine sports have had Aurdal as a gathering place - including Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, who keeps returning.
In 2016, the Fjellstølheisen was launched, which quickly became a favorite – especially among young people who want early mornings and hard trails.
This year we celebrate 40 years of skiing fun at Solsiá. Thanks to volunteers, employees, sports teams and thousands of visitors, we now have a facility that is still just the right size, still full of life – and with the best slopes in Valdres.
General managers for 40 years
Over four decades, many committed managers have helped develop Solsi'a into the facility we know today. Here is an overview of the daily managers since its inception:
1985 – 1987 Knut Aassveen
1988–1989 Tom Kvinlog
1989 – 1991 Jan Thor Tharaldsen
1991 – 2000 Egil Dieserud
2000 – 2002 Sven Holum
2002 – 2003 William Holden
2003 – 2004 Stein Hesse
2004 – 2006 Stein Rudi
2006 – 2007 Gjermund Svendsen
2007 – 2011 Arnulf Friis Erdal
2011– Harald Kulhuset
Everyone has left their mark on the development of Solsi'a – each in their own way.
