Gudbrandsdalen Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know before visiting Gudbransdalen, including top attractions, outdoor adventures, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Gudbrandsdalen

Nestled within the heart of Oppland, Gudbrandsdalen is a picturesque valley that stretches for nearly 230 kilometers. Surrounded by majestic mountains and dotted with quaint villages, this region is a treasure trove of scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Gudbrandsdalen is a perfect destination for travelers looking to experience authentic Norwegian culture and revel in the country’s stunning natural landscape. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know before visiting Gudbrandsdalen.

List of Places to Visit in Gudbrandsdalen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Maihaugen Open-Air Museum - Explore Norway’s cultural heritage at this vast open-air museum that features over 200 traditional houses and buildings, including a stave church and a Sami camp.
  • Ringebu Stave Church - Visit one of Norway’s best-preserved stave churches, built in the 13th century and adorned with intricate carvings.
  • Norwegian Olympic Museum - Learn about Norway’s Olympic history and the country’s top athletes at this interactive museum.
  • Peer Gynt Gallery and Museum - Immerse yourself in the world of the beloved Norwegian play Peer Gynt at this museum that features artworks and installations inspired by the play.

Natural Attractions of Gudbrandsdalen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jotunheimen National Park - Go hiking, climbing, and skiing in Norway’s premier national park that boasts some of the highest peaks in the country.
  • Rondane National Park - Spot wildlife and trek along some of the most scenic trails in Norway at this pristine national park that’s also the oldest in the country.
  • Gudbrandsdalen valley - Take a scenic drive or cycle along Norway’s longest valley, which is dotted with charming farms and villages.
  • Sjoa River - Experience Norway’s tumultuous waters by rafting, kayaking, or canoeing down the Sjoa River, one of the best white-water rafting spots in Scandinavia.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gudbrandsdalen

Gudbrandsdalen is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with a variety of hiking and biking trails that showcase the region’s beauty and diversity. Here are a few popular routes:

  • Besseggen Ridge - Hike across this dramatic ridge that separates two of Norway’s largest lakes, Gjende and Bessvatnet, for breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
  • Rondvassbu to Dørålseter - Trek through Rondane National Park on this scenic route that takes you past pristine lakes, jagged peaks, and glaciers.
  • Mjølkevegen - Cycle through the backcountry of Gudbrandsdalen on this 250-kilometer trail that passes through quaint villages, rustic farms, and stunning vistas.

Best Things to Do in Gudbrandsdalen: Activities and Tours

  • Fishing - Cast a line into one of Gudbrandsdalen’s many rivers and lakes to catch trout, grayling, and salmon.
  • Skiing - Hit the slopes at Norway’s premier ski resorts, such as Hafjell, Kvitfjell, and Gålå.
  • Horseback Riding - Explore the scenic landscape on horseback, with a variety of tours and riding schools offered throughout the region.
  • Festival-hopping - Join in the local celebrations in Gudbrandsdalen, such as the Peer Gynt Festival, the Olsok Festival, and the World Cup ski race in Lillehammer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gudbrandsdalen

Looking for a week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your trip to Gudbrandsdalen? Here’s a suggested plan:

  • Day 1-2: Explore Lillehammer and visit Maihaugen Open-Air Museum, Norwegian Olympic Museum, and Lysgårdsbakkene ski jump.
  • Day 3: Go hiking or cycling in Rondane National Park.
  • Day 4: Visit Ringebu Stave Church and discover traditional farming practices at the Dovre Farm Museum.
  • Day 5: Rafting down the Sjoa River, followed by horseback riding in Gudbrandsdalen.
  • Day 6: Take a scenic drive through Gudbrandsdalen valley, stopping at charming villages like Hundorp, Fåvang, and Vinstra.
  • Day 7: Skiing and snowmobiling at Hafjell ski resort, followed by a visit to the Lillehammer Art Museum.

Food and Drink Scene of Gudbrandsdalen

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pinnekjøtt - A popular Christmas dish made of lamb ribs that have been salted, dried, and then steamed.
  • Tørrfisk - A Norwegian staple, this dried and salted fish is often eaten as a snack or used as an ingredient in stews and soups
  • Fårikål - A hearty stew made of lamb, cabbage, and whole black pepper that’s a classic Norwegian dish.
  • Rømmegrøt - A rich and creamy porridge made of sour cream and flour, served with a side of cured meats and potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Aquavit - A traditional Norwegian distilled liquor that’s flavored with herbs and spices like caraway and anise.
  • Beer - Norway has a thriving craft beer scene, with microbreweries like Aegir, Lervig, and Nøgne Ø producing high-quality brews.
  • Glogg - A mulled wine that’s popular during the winter months, made with red wine, spices like cinnamon and cloves, and sweetened with sugar or honey.
  • Eplemost - A refreshing and flavorful apple juice that’s a popular beverage in Norway.

Where to Stay in Gudbrandsdalen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gudbrandsdalen offers a range of accommodation options, from cozy guesthouses and hostels to luxury hotels and cabins. Here are a few recommended places to stay:

  • Dovrefjell Hotell - A cozy and comfortable hotel located in the heart of Gudbrandsdalen valley, known for its warm hospitality and delicious breakfasts.
  • Gudbrandsgard Hotell - A luxurious and grand hotel situated in the historic village of Kvitfjell, with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Rondane Gjestegård - A charming and rustic guesthouse located near Rondane National Park, with comfortable rooms and home-cooked meals.
  • Mellomstasjonen Hostel - An affordable and friendly hostel located in Hafjell ski resort, perfect for budget-friendly travelers.

What to Buy in Gudbrandsdalen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Rosemaling - Decorative folk art that’s a hallmark of Norwegian culture, often found on wooden objects like plates, bowls, and furniture.
  • Sweaters - Norwegian wool sweaters are cozy, durable, and stylish, with classic designs like the Dale of Norway and the Setesdal sweater.
  • Ekte Geitost - A sweet and savory goat cheese that’s a specialty of Norway and often served with bread or crackers.
  • Lefse - A traditional Norwegian flatbread that’s made with potatoes and flour, often flavored with cinnamon and sugar.

Local Culture and Customs of Gudbrandsdalen

Norwegian culture and customs are an integral part of the Gudbrandsdalen experience. Here are a few things to know:

  • Respect nature - Gudbrandsdalen is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, so be sure to treat the environment with care and respect.
  • Be mindful of noise levels - Norwegians value their peace and quiet, so try to keep noise levels low in residential areas.
  • Fika - Norwegian coffee culture involves taking a break in the afternoon for a cup of coffee and a sweet treat, often accompanied by good conversation.

Best Time to Visit Gudbrandsdalen

The best time to visit Gudbrandsdalen depends on your interests and preferences. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Summer (June-August) - Ideal for hiking, cycling, rafting, and other outdoor activities, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours.
  • Winter (December-March) - The perfect time for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, with plenty of snow and festive holiday events.
  • Spring (April-May) - A great time to visit if you want to see the region’s stunning nature come alive with fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers.
  • Fall (September-November) - A quieter season, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gudbrandsdalen

Do:

  • Take off your shoes - Norwegians often take off their shoes before entering someone’s home, so be sure to follow suit.
  • Try local cuisine - Gudbrandsdalen has a rich food culture, so be sure to try local dishes and ingredients.
  • Take in the local festivals - Gudbrandsdalen hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Peer Gynt Festival and the Lillehammer World Cup.
  • Respect nature and wildlife - Norway values its environment, so be sure to follow leave-no-trace principles when spending time outdoors.

Don’t:

  • Be loud or disruptive in public - Norwegians value peace and quiet, so avoid loud or obnoxious behavior in public spaces.
  • Assume everyone speaks English - While English is widely spoken in Norway, not everyone is fluent, so be patient and use simple language if needed.
  • Dress immodestly - While Norway is a relatively liberal country, it’s still considered polite to dress modestly in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gudbrandsdalen

Gudbrandsdalen is generally a safe and welcoming region, with low levels of crime. However, here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Drive carefully - The roads in Gudbrandsdalen can be narrow and winding, so drive cautiously and obey traffic laws.
  • Be prepared for weather changes - The weather in Norway can be unpredictable, so be sure to bring appropriate clothing for varying conditions.
  • Watch out for wildlife - Norway is home to many wild animals, such as moose, reindeer, and bears, so be cautious when encountering them.

Health in Gudbrandsdalen

Norway has a high standard of healthcare, with hospitals and clinics located throughout the country. However, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for minor illnesses or injuries when traveling. Here are a few tips:

  • Pack a first-aid kit - Bring a basic first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and insect repellent.
  • Stay hydrated - Drink plenty of water, especially if engaging in physical activity.
  • Get travel insurance - Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency evacuation, just in case.

Getting to Gudbrandsdalen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gudbrandsdalen

  • Oslo Airport (Gardermoen) - located around 140 kilometers south of Gudbrandsdalen, with regular domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Gudbrandsdalen

  • Lillehammer Bus Terminal - located in the center of Lillehammer, with regular bus connections throughout the region.

Other Options

  • Train - Gudbrandsdalen is accessible by train, with regular services to Lillehammer and other nearby towns.
  • Car - Driving is a popular way to explore Gudbrandsdal, with highways and scenic routes connecting major towns and attractions.

How to Get Around in Gudbrandsdalen

Gudbrandsdalen is a region that’s best explored by car, as many of the attractions and natural wonders are spread out across a wide area. However, there are also other options.

  • Bus - Local buses connect many of the villages and towns in Gudbrandsdalen, with regular services to Lillehammer and other nearby cities.
  • Train - Norway’s national railway, Vy, operates trains that connect Lillehammer with other major cities like Oslo and Trondheim.
  • Bike rental - Biking is a great way to explore Gudbrandsdalen, with several rental companies offering high-quality bikes and gear.

Where to Go Next from Gudbrandsdalen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore Norway, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Geirangerfjord - Explore one of Norway’s most stunning fjords, with steep cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear water.
  • Sognefjord - Another beautiful fjord, with charming villages, dramatic landscapes, and unique cultural experiences.
  • Oslo - Norway’s vibrant capital city is a must-visit, with world-class museums, cultural landmarks, and a bustling nightlife scene.
  • Trolltunga - Go on a hike to the iconic Trolltunga cliff, which offers stunning views of the surrounding fjords and valleys.

Conclusion

Gudbrandsdalen is a destination that truly captures the essence of Norway - from its spectacular scenery to its rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culture buff, or a foodie, Gudbrandsdalen has something to offer for everyone. Plan your visit today, and get ready to fall in love with one of Norway’s most beautiful regions.

Ringebu Stave Church Ringebu Stave Church One of the many fine Gudbrandsdalen farms with ancient wooden buildings. Some of these have a written history since the middle ages. One of the many fine Gudbrandsdalen farms with ancient wooden buildings. Some of these have a written history since the middle ages. E6 along Lågen river E6 along Lågen river Upper part of Gudbrandsdalen near Dombås junction, where road and rail branches off to Trondheim across Dovrefjell plateau. Pilgrims walked this route for centuries on their way to Nidarosdomen, Trondheim's cathedral. Upper part of Gudbrandsdalen near Dombås junction, where road and rail branches off to Trondheim across Dovrefjell plateau. Pilgrims walked this route for centuries on their way to Nidarosdomen, Trondheim's cathedral. Sør-Fron Church, nickname Gudbrandsdal Sør-Fron Church, nickname Gudbrandsdal "cathedral", is a landmark in the valley. The main road E6 now runs in a tunnel under Hundorp village and the church. Lom village with the ancient stave church. Lom village with the ancient stave church. Lesjaskogsvatnet lake near Bjorli Lesjaskogsvatnet lake near Bjorli Sjoa river Sjoa river Hunderfossen park Hunderfossen park Rondane summits on eastern edge of Gudbrandsdalen Rondane summits on eastern edge of Gudbrandsdalen


    Hafjell
    Kvitfjell
    Nordseter
    Otta