Jotunheimen & Besseggen Ridge
The Besseggen ridge threads between emerald Gjende and deep-blue Bessvatnet, Norway’s single most-walked mountain hike. It sits in the heart of Jotunheimen, “home of the giants,” among the highest peaks in the country.
Weather
Spring averages 0–8°C, summer 10–18°C, autumn 4–10°C, and winter −10 to −2°C in Jotunheimen. This summer itinerary targets July–August when trails are snow-free. Besseggen ridge can see snow patches into July. Afternoon thunderstorms build over the high peaks.
Activities
Hike the Besseggen ridge between emerald Gjende and blue Bessvatnet, usually with a boat shuttle on Gjende. Optional ascent of Galdhøpiggen, Norway's highest peak, or gentler valley trails. Stay at mountain lodges and lakeside huts between big days.
Culture
Jotunheimen means Home of the Giants — Norway's alpine heartland with a century of mountaineering tradition. DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association) huts operate on honour-system hospitality. Oslo is the gateway; locals drive or bus in for weekend ridge hikes.
Natural history
Jotunheimen holds over 250 peaks above 1,900m, sculpted by Ice Age glaciers. Gjende and Bessvatnet sit at different elevations, creating the famous two-colour lake view from Besseggen. Reindeer and lemmings inhabit the high plateaus.
Local food
Mountain lodges serve kjøttkaker (meatballs), brown cheese, and hearty pea soup. Pack a packed lunch for Besseggen day — the ridge has no shops. Lom village on the drive in does excellent bakeries and café stops.
Fun fact
Besseggen is Norway's most-hiked mountain route — on peak summer days, hundreds of walkers thread the narrow ridge simultaneously.
- Fly into: Oslo (OSL)
- Day 1: Drive to Gjendesheim, lakeside eve
- Day 2: Besseggen ridge hike (with boat)
- Day 3: Galdhøpiggen or valley trails
- Day 4–5: Waterfall walks, mountain lodges
- Est. total: ~$2,400