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Winter fun for both ski lovers and nature explorers
Few countries have as much to offer during the winter season. Everyone from ski fans to nature lovers will find something to enjoy.
Alpine skiing and ski resorts
In winter, Norway turns into a snowy paradise for ski lovers. The main perks of skiing in Norway are top snow conditions and a long ski season that lasts even until mid-April. It’s also easy to find smaller and less crowded ski resorts, compared to many places in the rest of Europe. Oh and lots of ski-in/ski-out accommodation options (and it's worth pointing out that hotel prices in Norway are in line with the rest of western Europe). Add full cosiness factor and shorter lift queues and you’ll see that Norway is a great destination both for families and everyone else.
People of every skill level will find a suitable ski destination:
- All skiing resorts in Norway are family-friendly, but families who prefer a smaller, quieter resort are recommended to check out Beitostølen, Skeikampen, and Hafjell
- For the best apres-ski, check out Trysil (Norway's biggest ski resort), Hemsedal or Norefjell
- For more adventurous activities, there are famous off-piste skiing areas such as Myrkdalen / Voss and Stranda close to Ålesund
- Anyone who wants to spice up a city break with some winter fun should check out Tryvann in Oslo, Narvikfjellet in Narvik, or the resorts close to Lillehammer (Hafjell, Kvitfjell, Sjusjøen, and Gålå).
Snow-kiting and ski-touring
For those looking for more adrenaline-packed winter activities, two fun activities are snow-kiting and ski-touring. The great thing about Norway is that there are ski-touring routes for all levels to choose from. Just remember that safety always comes first! It’s best to take up some guided training to learn the basics before setting off into the untamed Norwegian nature.
Cross-country skiing
In Norway, you can go cross-country skiing almost anywhere. Some of the most-visited destinations are located in Eastern Norway, for example Lillehammer and Gudbrandsdalen. They offer well-groomed trails and a chance to combine skiing with other activities.
What about those who are not into skiing? No worries – there are plenty of ways to experience Norway’s winter wonderland, and many do not require skis.
Snowshoeing
Thanks to snowshoe hiking, deep snow is no longer an obstacle for everyone who loves long winter walks. An experienced guide can show you the right technique and take you to places that will take your breath away.
Dog sledding
Would you like to be a musher for one day? Venture out with a gang of friendly huskies who will take you deep into a winter wonderland. You can try handling your own dog team or enjoy the ride as a passenger, sitting on the sled all snuggled up and comfy.
Ice skating
Ice skating on frozen lakes or in ice rinks is a great family winter activity, suitable for all levels. Public ice rinks are a more convenient option as they usually have skates for rent. To go skating on a lake, you’ll have to bring your own skates and equipment. And be sure to find out that it’s absolutely safe to go on the ice. If in any doubt, don’t risk it!
Winter safari
Nordic-style safaris are available all year round. In the winter, you can get close to mighty creatures such as whales and orcas, king crabs, and musk oxen. To watch Norwegian wildlife in its natural habitat, it is best to go to the northern part of the country. There, you can experience the famous king crab, and you will have the opportunity to taste this delicacy. In Vesterålen and Tromsø, you can go on a guided whale safari. The whales’ favourite locations are only a boat ride away up here!
Winter fishing
Drill a hole, throw the line into the water, and wait. Nothing beats the exciting feeling you get when you’re waiting for a fish to swim by. Remember to be careful, though. Listen to tour guides and stay off the ice if you don’t know for sure that it’s safe.
For a fishing adventure like no other, it’s best to go to Northern Norway between January and April, where you can take part in the famous skrei fishing. Skrei is a kind of super-sized migrating cod that makes winter fishing extra exciting.
Heat up in a sauna
How about a swim and a sauna? As you can imagine, the sea is f-f-f-freezing during the winter months. But with lots of new outdoor saunas that have popped up all over the country recently, you don’t have to worry. Whether you’re brave enough to take a dip or prefer to finish your sauna visit with a shower, you are guaranteed a cool experience in spectacular surroundings.
Norway’s winter nights may be long, but it doesn’t mean that it’s pitch-dark all the time – there is a truly magical light show going on above our heads! Northern Norway is one of the best and most convenient places to watch the Aurora Borealis.
The northern lights can be seen when the sky is clear and dark. Cold, dry nights from October to March are the best to hunt for the northern lights. To maximise your chances, sign up for a guided tour. The guides are up to date with the weather conditions and can take you to the locations where you have the best chance to experience this wonderful natural phenomenon.
While you’re up north, you can combine your northern lights tour with other winter activities, such as wildlife safari, skiing, hiking or dog-sledding.
Test your knowledge
Finished the module? Check your knowledge by taking the test below.
Yes! And these are just some of the perks – did we mention the snow guarantee and the cosy ski-in/ski-out accommodation?
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Absolutely! Norway in winter is so much more than skiing. It's easy to find other things to do, whether you're a snow fan or not.
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That's right! Trysil is also a family-friendly resort, but it's the biggest in the country.
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