Svartediket, body of water
Svartediket is a concrete dam built in Bergen in 1953 by the municipality to supply water to the city. Standing 20 meters tall and stretching 240 meters across, it sits in a valley between the mountains Ulrikken and Fløyenfjellet.
The area has held dams for centuries to control water for mills and other uses, with the oldest modern waterworks in Norway operating since 1855. The concrete dam built in 1953 replaced earlier structures and was designed to meet the city's growing water needs.
The name Svartediket means 'black ditch' and comes from the dark water color caused by the surrounding landscape and depth. It has become a quiet retreat for locals who come to walk, relax, and connect with nature away from the busy city.
The area has walking paths that are easy to follow and suitable for short walks or bike rides around the water. Benches and small picnic spots are available, but swimming is not allowed to keep the water clean for the city's supply.
The dam is rare in Norway because it uses a lamella design with layered construction that controls water flow effectively. Three older mill and dam structures remain hidden below the water level and become visible when the water is drained.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
