This week-long adventure starts in Oslo, hikes through one of Norway's most stunning landscapes, and concludes with a Norwegian sauna, cruise through the fjords, and train to Bergen.
On this 8-day guided hike, you’ll experience one of the most diverse landscapes Norway has to offer, from barren, treeless plateaus to the dramatic valley of Aurlandsdalen with breathtaking views toward the fjord. Starting at the majestic Hardangervidda, Norway’s largest mountain plateau, you descend into the lush valley before reaching the majestic Sognefjord, Norway’s deepest and longest fjord, also called the king of the fjords.
With daily distances between 10 and 17 km, this hike is well-suited for most people who enjoy hiking and can manage moderate distances. The longest stage comes at the end, with shorter days in between.
Accommodations are in comfortable, fully serviced lodges where breakfast and dinner are provided. With luggage transport included along the entire route, you can focus fully on enjoying the beautiful hikes without the burden of carrying heavy gear.
This hiking holiday in Norway also includes a first night in the Norwegian capital, Oslo, before taking the scenic train journey to Finse with the Bergen Railway, a highlight itself. After reaching the Sognefjord, you continue your adventure to the beautiful city of Bergen combining a fjord cruise in the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, a bus and a train ride.
Arrival in Oslo on your own before meeting your guide at your hotel in the city centre. If you have time, you can have a short walk in the city centre before enjoying a nice dinner close by your hotel (not included). The capital has plenty of possibilities to choose from.
Accommodation: Oslo, middle class hotel in the city centre (Thon Hotel Astoria or similar)
Meals: -
Transport: In the morning, train ride to Finse.
Grab some lunch at Oslo station (not included) and get on board the Bergen Railway. On this 4,5-hour train ride you can enjoy the views from green valleys up to Norway’s mountain plateau, the Hardangervidda. Finse doesn’t have any car access and arriving there is like stepping out into another world.
Your accommodation is located 700 meters walking distance from the station. Bring easy to carry luggage.
After checking in, you head for an easy hike in the afternoon.
Activity: Hike Blåisen
Duration: 3-4 hours, Distance: 10 kilometres, ↑ 250 meters
Start your adventure with a scenic hike to Blåisen from Finsehytta. Enjoy the stunning surroundings as you approach the mighty Hardangerjøkulen glacier—just be sure not to step onto the glacier without proper Equipment.
Accommodation: Finsehytta DNT
Meals: Breakfast | - | Dinner
Activity: Hike to Geiterygghytta
Duration: 5-7 hours, Distance: 15 kilometres, ↑ 500 meters
Today, you’ll begin your hike towards Aurlandsdalen, crossing from Finse to Geiterygghytta via Sankt Pål. Enjoy stunning views of Hardangerjøkulen to the South and Skarvheimen and Jotunheimen to the North. The trail offers gentle ascents and descents, passing beautiful mountain lakes.
Accommodation: Geiterygghytta DNT
Meals: Breakfast | Packed Lunch | Dinner
Activity: Hike to Steinbergdalshytta
Duration: 3-4 hours, Distance: 10 kilometres, ↑250 meters
Today’s hike is one of the shortest of the trip if you follow the valley directly to Steinbergdalshytta along a smaller path higher up on the hillside. If the group is eager for a longer adventure, the route can be extend to 17 km by doing the loop via Kongshelleren.
Accommodation: Steinbergdalshytta
Meals: Breakfast | Packed Lunch | Dinner
Activity: Hike to Østerbø
Duration: 3-4 hours, Distance: 10 kilometres, ↑ 195 meters
Today’s hike follows a scenic trail along the hillside, offering beautiful views over the valley. Although relatively short, the trail is challenging, with continuous ups and downs before descending to the village of Østerbø, home to the Aurlandsdalen Turisthytte.
Accommodation: Aurlandsdalen Turisthytte
Meals: Breakfast | Packed Lunch | Dinner
Activity: Hike Aurlandsdalen to Vassbygdi
Duration: 7-8 hours, Distance: 16 kilometres, ↑ 320 meters
You’ve reached the crown jewel: Aurlandsdalen! This is one of the most breathtaking and spectacular routes in Western Norway. Steep mountains plunge into deep river gorges, with panoramic views from the tops. Along the way, you’ll encounter waterfalls, abandoned farms, rare flora, and rich history. Aurlandsdalen offers an unforgettable journey through both nature and culture. This trail goes mainly downhill.
Transport: From Vassbygdi, you will take the bus to Flåm where you’ll find your accommodation, right by the fjord. If the hotels in Flåm are fully booked, we might need to book an alternative in Gudvangen and in that case, the fjord cruise would happen that day.
Accommodation: Fretheim Hotel
Meals: Breakfast | Packed Lunch | Dinner
Activity: Morning sauna by the fjord.
Get the real Norwegian experience with a sauna session by the fjord. There isn’t any better way to end your stay than with a relaxing sauna and a refreshing dip in the fjord.
Transport: Electrical fjord cruise from Flåm to Gudvangen, bus to Voss and train to Bergen.
This is part of a popular combination of public transport called as well “Norway in a Nutshell”. Taking you from the deep and narrow fjords to the beautiful city of Bergen by boat and train. Enjoy breathtaking landscapes while travelling with comfortable transports.
You arrive in Bergen in the late afternoon before having dinner at your hotel.
Accommodation: Bergen, middle class hotel in the city centre (Grand Terminus or similar)
Meals: Breakfast | Packed Lunch | Dinner
Today it is time to say goodbye to Norway. You take farewell with your guide at the hotel and head to the airport on your own, depending on your flight departure.
Meals: Breakfast | - | -
One of the greatest luxuries of this journey is the freedom to hike with only a daypack. Your main luggage will be transferred between accommodations from Finse to Vassbygdi, allowing you to fully enjoy Norway's mountain landscapes without the burden of carrying heavy gear.
From remote mountain lodges to historic hotels overlooking the fjords, each accommodation reflects a different side of Norway. Along the trail, you'll experience the warmth and simplicity of traditional mountain life, while your stays in Oslo, Flåm, and Bergen provide comfort and a glimpse into Norway's cultural heritage.
The trails of Skarvheimen and Aurlandsdalen are among Norway's most rewarding hiking routes. Expect mountain lakes, glacier views, dramatic valleys, river crossings, and ever-changing landscapes that make each day feel distinct from the last.
For further questions don't hesitate to reach out to us directly.
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area. Travelers should ensure their passport is valid and review the most current entry requirements before departure. Guests traveling from other countries should check the regulations that apply to their nationality.
This journey is rated moderate and is designed for active travelers who enjoy spending full days outdoors. Daily hikes range from approximately 10–16 kilometers and may include rocky terrain, mountain passes, river crossings, and sustained ascents and descents. While no technical climbing is required, participants should be comfortable hiking for several hours each day.
Previous trekking experience is helpful but not required. The most important requirement is a good level of fitness and a willingness to spend multiple consecutive days hiking in mountain environments. If you regularly enjoy walking, hiking, or other endurance activities, you will likely find this journey rewarding.
Participants should be in normal to good physical condition. Most hiking days last between 5 and 7 hours, sometimes over uneven and rocky terrain. The route includes both uphill and downhill sections, and some days may involve significant elevation gain.
The trails are well-marked and regularly used by hikers, but they are often narrow, rocky, and uneven. Along the route you may cross streams, walk through alpine landscapes, and encounter sections of exposed mountain terrain. The scenery is spectacular, but the terrain requires steady footing and appropriate gear.
Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support are strongly recommended. The terrain can be wet, rocky, and uneven, making proper footwear essential for comfort and safety. Trail running shoes, sneakers, and everyday shoes are not recommended for this journey.
Yes. Hiking poles are highly recommended, particularly for steep descents, stream crossings, and uneven mountain terrain. Many travelers find them especially helpful on longer hiking days.
Mountain weather in Norway can change quickly, even during summer. We recommend waterproof outer layers, warm clothing, hiking socks, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a comfortable daypack. Dressing in layers is the best way to stay comfortable throughout the journey.
No. Your main luggage will be transferred between accommodations from Finse to Vassbygdi, allowing you to hike with only a daypack. This means you can carry just your daily essentials while enjoying the trails.
This journey combines comfortable city hotels with traditional Norwegian mountain lodges. In Oslo, Flåm, and Bergen, guests stay in hotels with private bathrooms. During the hiking portion of the trip, accommodations are more rustic and authentic, with bunk-bed rooms and shared bathroom facilities, offering a true mountain lodge experience.
The lodges are an important part of Norwegian hiking culture. Located in remote mountain settings, they provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere where travelers can relax, share stories from the trail, and experience the traditions of Norway's outdoor heritage. Many of these lodges have been hosting hikers for generations.
Meals throughout the trip highlight local ingredients and regional traditions. Breakfast is typically served buffet-style each morning. Guests prepare their own packed lunch from the breakfast buffet to enjoy on the trail, and hearty dinners are served in the evening after the day's hike. In many accommodations, it is also possible to fill a thermos before setting out for the day.
Rather than rushing between viewpoints, this journey invites you to experience Norway at a slower pace. Traveling largely on foot, you'll cross mountain plateaus, stay in traditional lodges, and follow historic trails through some of the country's most spectacular landscapes. It's a journey focused on immersion, connection, and the simple rhythm of life outdoors.
Summer temperatures are generally mild, but mountain weather can change rapidly. It is common to experience sunshine, wind, rain, and cooler temperatures within the same day. Being prepared for a variety of conditions is an important part of the experience.
This journey is designed for travelers who value experiences over checklists. It is ideal for those who enjoy hiking, meaningful conversations, spectacular landscapes, and the simple rhythm of moving through nature one day at a time. Whether traveling solo or with a companion, you'll share the trail with others who are seeking adventure, connection, and a deeper experience of Norway.
