Berkåk Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, outdoor adventures, food, accommodations, and cultural customs of Berkåk, Norway with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Berkåk

Berkåk is a village located in Trøndelag, in the heart of Norway. Situated in the mountainous region of the country, Berkåk is known for its natural attractions, scenic views, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage.

The village has a population of around 1,000 and is surrounded by majestic mountains, scenic lakes, and dense forests. Berkåk offers a perfect getaway for those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the serene and tranquil ambiance of nature.

In this comprehensive travel guide to Berkåk, we will explore the best places to visit, outdoor adventures, food, accommodations, and cultural customs of the village.

List of Places to Visit in Berkåk

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Berkåk Church: Built-in 1886, Berkåk Church is a historic landmark of the village. Made of wood in the Neo-Gothic style, this church is a classic example of Norwegian architecture.
  • Sør-Trøndelag Folk Museum: Located in Røros, about 40 kilometers from Berkåk, this museum exhibits rural life and cultural heritage of the region. The open-air museum has more than 200 historic buildings, some of which date back to the 17th century.

Natural Attractions of Berkåk: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park: Spread over an area of 1,693 square kilometers, this national park is known for its spectacular mountain ranges, glaciers, and unique wildlife, including musk oxen and reindeer.
  • Lake Lønsjøen: Located near the village, Lake Lønsjøen is a scenic spot for picnics and fishing.
  • Såtbakkmyra Nature Reserve: This reserve has an extensive network of hiking trails in dense forests and wetlands.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Berkåk

Berkåk has some of the best hiking and biking trails in the country. These trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and lakes. Some of the famous hiking and biking trails are:

  • Grøvudalen Trail: This hiking trail covers a distance of 22 kilometers, and it takes around six hours to complete. The trail is moderate and passes through dense forests, open fields, and scenic hills.
  • Rondane National Park Trail: This trail is around 25 kilometers in length, and it takes around six hours to complete. The trail offers fantastic views of the Rondane mountain range and crosses several scenic lakes.

Best Things to Do in Berkåk: Activities and Tours

  • Whitewater Rafting: The Gaula River is one of the most popular spots in Norway for whitewater rafting. The Gaula River runs through Berkåk and is a perfect place for adrenaline junkies to experience the thrill of whitewater rafting.
  • Fishing: Fishing is one of the popular activities in Berkåk, and Lake Lønsjøen is a renowned spot for fishing.
  • Horse Riding: Horse riding is a great way to explore the scenic trails of Berkåk, and there are several tour operators in the village who offer horse riding expeditions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Berkåk

Day Activities
1. Arrival in Berkåk and check-in to hotel
2. Hiking on the Grøvudalen Trail
3. Visit to Sør-Trøndelag Folk Museum in Røros
4. Whitewater Rafting on the Gaula River
5. Visit to Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park
6. Horse Riding Expedition
7. Departure from Berkåk

Food and Drink Scene of Berkåk

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kjøttkaker: Norwegian meatballs made of ground beef or pork served with potatoes, gravy, and lingonberry jam.
  • Fårikål: A stew of lamb and cabbage, traditionally served during autumn in Norway.

Local Beverages

  • Aquavit: A Scandinavian spirit made of potatoes or grain, flavored with herbs and spices.
  • Øl: Local beer in Norway is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

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

  • Berkåk Suites: Located in the heart of the village, Berkåk Suites offers modern and luxurious accommodation with free wifi and parking.
  • Berkåk Camping: Berkåk Camping offers budget-friendly accommodation in the form of cabins and campsites. This campsite also has a sauna, playground, and a barbeque area.

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

  • Handmade Knitted Sweaters: Berkåk is known for its handmade knitted sweaters and other hand-woven woolen products.
  • Local Cheese: Cheese made from the milk of local cows and goats is a popular souvenir among tourists.

Local Culture and Customs of Berkåk

  • Norwegians are known for their love of nature, and Berkåk is no exception. Visitors are expected to maintain ecological balance by not littering or damaging the environment.
  • Norwegians are punctual and expect visitors to be on time for appointments.

Best Time to Visit Berkåk

The best time to visit Berkåk is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the daylight lasts for extended periods. Autumn is also a good time to visit for the stunning fall foliage views on the hiking trails.

Do’s and Don’ts of Berkåk

Do:

  • Always carry warm clothing, even in summer, as the weather can change quickly.
  • Try local cuisine and beverages for a genuinely authentic experience.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Be late for appointments.

Safety and Health

Safety in Berkåk

Berkåk is a safe village, and crime rates are low. However, visitors are advised to take standard precautions, such as keeping track of their belongings and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Berkåk

Berkåk has a fully-equipped medical center that can handle emergencies. Visitors are advised to carry their health insurance and take precautions against insect bites while hiking in the forest.

Getting to Berkåk: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Berkåk

  • Trondheim Airport: The nearest international airport is Trondheim Airport Vaernes, located approximately 145 kilometers from Berkåk. This airport offers flights to major European destinations.

Bus Stations Near Berkåk

  • Berkåk Bus Station: This bus station serves the village and connects it with nearby towns and cities in Norway, including Trondheim and Oslo.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car from Trondheim Airport or nearby cities and drive to Berkåk.

How to Get Around in Berkåk

Visitors can explore the village on foot as most of the attractions and landmarks are located within walking distance. Taxis and buses are also available for those who prefer not to walk.

Where to Go Next from Berkåk: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Røros: An hour’s drive from Berkåk, Røros is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved wooden buildings and rich mining history.
  • Trondheim: A three-hour drive from Berkåk, Trondheim is a famous university town with a rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture.

Conclusion

Berkåk, Norway, is a picturesque village in the heart of Trøndelag, offering visitors a chance to escape into the breathtaking natural beauty of Norway. From hiking and biking trails to museums and historical landmarks, Berkåk has something to offer everyone.

Scandinavian Collage Museum at Berkåk, Norway. The museum is open all days at all times. Scandinavian Collage Museum at Berkåk, Norway. The museum is open all days at all times. Scandinavian Collage Museum at Berkåk, Norway. A window to the south gives a view of the E6 highway into the exhibition room. Scandinavian Collage Museum at Berkåk, Norway. A window to the south gives a view of the E6 highway into the exhibition room.