N o r way
le t’s go NORWAY
going downhill, which is slightly tougher Flights from the UK to Norway are many and, in my opinion, not as enjoyable. But it does mean you get to walk toward the and they are super cheap. If you book in best views. advance you can often find return tickets Alternatively, you can get the boat to from London for as little as £30 with the Memurubu in the morning (as we did) and likes of Ryanair (hold luggage is extra), hike back to Gjendesheim. This means but even at peak times without much noyou can take as much time as you like on tice you should expect to get tickets well your way back and you also get the joy of under £200. Once there, you can either hire a car (recommended) or get the train tackling the ridge going the other way. Of course, you could walk both ways, to Otta (the gateway to the national parks staying in a tent or in the hut at Memuruarea) followed by a bus to Gjendesheim bu overnight. There is also a track along(the start point for the hike). side Lake Gjende if you wish to mix it up. If you want a longer adventure, you could Where to stay There is accommodation at Gjendesheim even link in Gjendebu further along the lake for a multi-day hike. in the form of a Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) hut which can house in What to take excess of 180 people and is ideal for using Weather conditions in mounbefore/after your hike. Nearby you will also tainous areas are notorious for find Bessheim Mountain Lodge and Cabins which offers great food, comfortable accom- changing quickly and that’s certainly the case here. modation and fantastic views. Of course, Even if balmy temperawild camping is also acceptable in Norway tures and bright sunshine as long as you camp more than 150m away from buildings and leave no trace. There are is forecast, be sure to also DNT huts at Memurubu and Gjendebu. take plenty of layers and waterproofs for all eventualities. Sturdy How to do it boots with grippy soles From Gjendesheim you are faced with several options. One is to hike directly to are essential for rocky sections and you’ll also Memurubu and get the boat back at the want to carry plenty of end of the day. Doing it this way means water and food to keep you not only face a time limit, but you’ll you going all day. also have to tackle the ridge scramble
How to get there
When to go
Unless you’re an experienced winter hiker, you’ll want to visit Jotunheimen National Park and Besseggen in peak season which runs from mid-June to mid-September. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends, while starting early will also help you avoid the crowds.
find out more
Check out www.visitnorway.com and www.nasjonalparkriket.no for more information and ideas.
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