Hiking the Norwegian Highlands: A Journey Through Hardangervidda

Best Season: June to September

Total Distance: Approx. 560 km

Budget Level: moderate

Highlights

• Breathtaking landscapes
• Challenging hikes
• Local Norwegian cuisine

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Geilo and Prepare for Adventure

Photo by Jonatan Pie on Unsplash

Arrive in Geilo, the gateway to Hardangervidda, and get ready for the hiking journey ahead.

Morning: Arrive in Geilo, settle into accommodation. at Geilo (2 hours)

Tip: Try local bakery for breakfast.

Afternoon: Visit the Geilo Tourist Information Center for maps and tips. at Geilo Tourist Information Center (1 hour)

Tip: Ask about the best hiking trails and current conditions.

Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. at Hallingstuene

Stay: Highland Lodge Geilo

Driving: N/A

Day 2: Hike to the Beautiful Husedalen Valley

Photo by Tomáš Malík on Unsplash

Challenge yourself with a hike through the stunning Husedalen Valley, known for its waterfalls.

Morning: Drive to Husedalen trailhead. at Husedalen (30 minutes)

Tip: Start early to avoid crowds.

Afternoon: Hike the Husedalen Trail to see the waterfalls. at Husedalen Trail (6 hours)

Tip: Bring plenty of water and snacks.

Evening: Return to Geilo for dinner. at Hallingstuene

Stay: Highland Lodge Geilo

Driving: 1 hour round trip

Day 3: Exploring Hardangervidda National Park

Photo by John O'Nolan on Unsplash

Venture into Hardangervidda National Park, hiking to the stunning Måbødalen.

Morning: Drive to Måbødalen trailhead. at Måbødalen (1 hour)

Tip: Pack a picnic for lunch.

Afternoon: Hike to the viewpoint over Måbødalen. at Måbødalen Viewpoint (4 hours)

Tip: Bring your camera for breathtaking views.

Evening: Relax at your accommodation. at Highland Lodge Geilo

Stay: Highland Lodge Geilo

Driving: 2 hours round trip

Day 4: A Day in the Scenic Rjukan

Photo by Barnabas Davoti on Unsplash

Drive to Rjukan and hike to the iconic Gaustatoppen, the highest peak in Telemark.

Morning: Drive to Rjukan and park at Gaustatoppen. at Rjukan (1.5 hours)

Tip: Arrive early to secure parking.

Afternoon: Hike to the summit of Gaustatoppen. at Gaustatoppen Summit (5-6 hours)

Tip: Use the cable car for a quicker descent.

Evening: Dinner in Rjukan. at Kafé Kysten

Stay: Quality Hotel Strand Gjøvik

Driving: 3 hours round trip

Day 5: Discovering Hardangervidda Lakes

Photo by Vidar Nordli-Mathisen on Unsplash

Explore the stunning lakes of Hardangervidda through a challenging hike.

Morning: Drive to the trailhead at Halne. at Halne (1 hour)

Tip: Check weather conditions before heading out.

Afternoon: Hike around the lakes, focusing on the beautiful landscape. at Hardangervidda Lakes (6 hours)

Tip: Keep an eye out for reindeer!

Evening: Dinner and relaxation. at Halne Fjellstugu

Stay: Halne Fjellstugu

Driving: 2 hours round trip

Day 6: The Epic Besseggen Ridge Hike

Photo by Andrew H on Unsplash

Take on one of Norway's most famous hikes, Besseggen Ridge, with stunning views.

Morning: Drive to Gjendesheim. at Gjendesheim (1.5 hours)

Tip: Arrive early to catch the ferry.

Afternoon: Hike Besseggen Ridge. at Besseggen (6-8 hours)

Tip: Wear sturdy boots and be prepared for steep sections.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at Gjendesheim. at Gjendesheim Fjellstue

Stay: Gjendesheim Fjellstue

Driving: 3 hours round trip

Day 7: Return to Geilo and Departure

Photo by Magne Roed on Unsplash

Wrap up your trip with a scenic drive back to Geilo and enjoy the last moments of the stunning landscapes.

Morning: Drive back to Geilo, enjoy the scenery. at Geilo (1.5 hours)

Tip: Stop at scenic viewpoints along the way.

Afternoon: Explore any remaining local attractions or shops. at Geilo (2 hours)

Tip: Visit local shops for souvenirs.

Evening: Departure. at Geilo

Stay: N/A

Driving: 1.5 hours

Packing Essentials

• Hiking boots
• Layered clothing
• First aid kit

Booking Tips

Book accommodations and any necessary permits for hikes in advance. For more information on hiking in Norway, visit Visit Norway.