The village of Vinstra (pop. 2,450) is most famous for Peer Gynt, a comical figure from Norwegian folklore. Known to be rather pompous and a bit of a fibber, Peer’s heroic deeds and misadventures have nonetheless made him a favourite legend among Norwegians over the years.
In the Vinstra region, travellers can enjoy festivals and skits in celebration of this figure. In nearby Gålå, the Gålåvatnet open-air theatre presents a musical rendition of Henrik Ibsen’s 1867 play Peer Gynt in August every year. You can also visit the old Peer Gynt farm in Hågå or take a scenic drive along the “Peer Gynt Way” (Peer Gyntveien), a 65-kilometre (40 mile) route from Tretten to Vinstra.
