This 4-day self-guided hiking trip in the Jotunheimen mountains, challenges you to conquer two of Norway’s most iconic hikes – Knutshoe and Besseggen. Immerse yourself in the beautiful autumn tones where you’ll experience the perfect blend of serenity and excitement, exploring and safely hiking along the trails and exposed ridges, affording breathtaking views of the mountains, valleys and sparkling lakes below.
Autumn is a great time to hike in this enchanting area, with soft colours, quieter paths, snow sprinkled peaks and unforgettable views as far as the eye can see. After two full-days of hiking, you’ll return to your comfortable and cosy accommodation to warm up and enjoy a well deserved meal.
This package includes transportation from Oslo, accommodation, all meals and route information – the perfect ingredients for a magical autumn getaway.
From £522 per person (excluding flights)
This is based on two people travelling, including return coach travel between Oslo and Jotunheimen, accommodation for 3 nights with all meals and tour description with GPX maps.
This roughly converts to 621 EUR | 673 USD
Departures: This set package is valid for daily arrivals between 19 August and 30 September. The price shown is based on Sunday to Tuesday arrivals, other days carry a supplement.
Your autumn hiking adventure starts with bus transportation from Oslo bus terminal in the city centre. There are three departure times for your convenience, but we highly recommend staying in Oslo beforehand. The express journey takes you to the heart of Norway in under 5 hours on comfortable buses with toilets, free WiFi and power outlets.
Check-in and get acquainted with the accommodation, your base for three nights. Meals are based on half-board, with packed lunches made from the breakfast table, a normal custom in hiking country.Accommodation at Gjendesheim Lodge
Surrounded by majestic Jotunheimen mountains by the scenic Gjende Lake, the Lodge sits below the famous Besseggen Ridge. This hikers lodge offers comfortable accommodation for active visitors with a cosy and warm atmosphere, friendly hospitality, along with wholesome local food, making Gjendesheim a great base for those wishing to explore the area. Bedrooms at the lodge accommodate 1, 2 and 4 guests, with shared bathrooms. There is also an equipment shop where jackets, hiking boots and backpacks can be rented for use.
After breakfast you’ll be transferred to the departure point for today’s hike to Knutshoe Ridge. Equipped with your lunch and essentials, you’ll tackle Knutshoe mountain, sometimes known as Besseggen’s little brother. The mountain has amazing views with lakes on both sides, with hiking paths that can be challenging in places, and you will need to use both hands and feet. The distance covered is approximately 13 kilometres with an elevation of 700 metres. Depending on fitness levels, the duration should take between 4-6 hours, so a reasonable fitness is required and hiking experience is recommended.
After time in the mountain air and aching muscles, return to Gjendesheim for a hearty dinner and time to reflect on the day’s events. What better way to relax and soothe your aches and pains than a warming sauna, which can be booked per hour for up to 10 guests.
The day has come, yesterday’s warm up is behind you and you’re all set for the big one. Besseggen is well known as a hiker's mecca, and one of Norway’s most popular hiking routes with a rough path over the narrow and open ridge. But it’s well worth the hard work - you’re rewarded with fantastic views of the majestic Jotunheimen mountains with the green Gjende lake on one side and the deep blue Bessvatnet lake on the other side. You’ll have an experience that will live with you forever. The challenging hike covers a distance of approximately 14 kilometres with an elevation at 1132 metres above sea level. The duration should take between 6-8 hours depending on fitness.
You’ve made it! Finish the day with a delicious meal made with local ingredients and a drink by the open fire. The perfect ending to a tough, but fulfilling day.
After breakfast, take the bus transfer back to Oslo city centre for your onward travel. The bus departs at 14.00, arriving 18.35 and a morning departure at 10.00 until mid-September, arriving at 14.35 Depending on flight details, it may be necessary to stay overnight in Norway’s capital, which we can arrange for you.
There is also a bus which departs for Bergen in the morning at 10.00 if you wish to explore Norway’s second city.