Gathering in Djupvasshytta

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As one of the places on Unesco's World Heritage list’, Geiranger in Norway must be regarded as one of the most beautiful spots on Earth. Ever since the first cruise ships arrived in the magnificent fjord in 1869, it has been a favourite cruise destination. Already in 1911 the first cars, mainly large 7- and 9-seaters, tried to tackle the steep roads carrying impressed tourists from the fjord up into the mountains. When in the 1920s cars won the competition over horses, the fleet grew to no less than fifty open 7-seater cars with brands like Buick, Studebaker, Nash, Cadillac and Hudson being dominant. Compare that with a total population of 400 people in Geiranger and you see that this must have been quite a special view. Especially when all were gathered, like in this picture from Djupvasshytta in the late 1930s. Having done their duty, quite a few were wrecked and sold during the 1960s, but luckily some survivors have been kept in original or restored condition. No less than 15 of these grand 7-seaters participated when the "Norgesløpet 2009", Norway’s main rally for old cars was held in the area June 17. These 1926 Cadillac and 1931 Hudson are truly a rare sight in the stunning scenery of the Ørnevegen (eagle) Road down to Geiranger. (text & photos by Ivar Engerud)

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