Gudbrandsjuvet is a narrow gorge on the river Valldøla, a short way from the road on the way up to Trollstigen, where the water squeezes through a slot in the rock and thunders down in a series of pools and falls. The walls of the gorge are smooth and polished, hollowed out by the swirling water over thousands of years, and the sound is a constant roar. A set of walkways and platforms has been built over and beside the gorge, designed to give a close view without damaging the rock. They are light, simple and made of steel and timber, and they hang over the chasm like a sketch.
The name comes from a legend. A man called Gudbrand is said to have leapt across the gap, at a place where the gorge is just a few metres wide, to escape his pursuers, and the story has been told in the valley for generations. It is a popular tale, though few people would attempt the jump themselves. The gorge is not very deep by the standards of the region, about twenty metres, but the force of the water makes it feel more dangerous than it is. Stay on the walkways, and do not climb over the rails.
The road here is the Fv63, one of the best motorbike roads in Norway, with long, flowing bends along the river, through forest and meadow. The surface is good, and traffic is moderate, though it can be heavy in summer with coaches and campervans heading for Trollstigen. The approach from Valldal is a pleasure, and the road beyond the gorge begins to climb toward the hairpins. Rain and mist are frequent, so take care on wet corners. In autumn, the leaves on the road can be slippery.
The nearest places are Valldal, which is small, Stranda, and Åndalsnes, which has about two thousand people and a few more services. It is wise to fill the tank before you set out on the Trollstigen route, and to bring a snack. The best time to visit is in the morning, when the light is soft and the crowds few, or after rain, when the river is full and loud. A visit takes half an hour, and it is a good break on a day of riding.