The old saying goes, “In the mountains, you’ll find peace,” and it’s certainly true when it comes to Norway’s majestic mountains. Whether you’re planning on taking a hike or just a really impressive snapshot, you’ll find a mountain that fits the bill.
In this article, we explore some of the most impressive mountains in Norway and what makes them so special (many of which surround some of our biggest cities and towns). So, if you are a nature lover, avid hiker, or mountain enthusiast, read on.
The Most Famous Norwegian Mountains
The following mountains of Norway need to be on your bucket list:
Vettakollen
Vettakollen is just a short distance from downtown Oslo. It lies about 8 kilometers north-northwest of the capital, making it the perfect place to visit if you’ve got limited time in Norway or will mainly be sticking to Oslo.
Getting there is also extremely easy via public transport, and you can catch a direct Metro from Stortinget to Vettakollen (the entire journey takes about 20 minutes). The Vettakollen hiking trail is definitely a favorite, not just because it’s so conveniently close to the city but because of its breathtaking views. Almost 180 meters high, it offers amazing views over the coastline and the Sognsvann Lake.
If you’re lucky enough to visit during the warm summer months, you can take the trail down to the lake. There, you’ll find a picnic area, bathroom facilities, and a diving platform. Here, you can spend the day dipping in and out of the lake, soaking up the sun as you stuff your face with all sorts of delicious snacks.
Mount Hoven
Mount Hoven is a very impressive sight, and you’ll find plenty to do there. It is home to one of the steepest cable cars in the world. The Loen Skylift travels the staggering1010 meters from Loen up Mount Hoven in just 5 minutes! Once at the top, one can take in the mesmerizing views over Nordfjord and Jostedalsbreen National Park. One can also take the opportunity to go zip-lining.
The two zip lines will have you whizzing across the Tungejolet Gorge at roughly 125 or 95 meters. The Gjolmunne Suspension Bridge via Ferrata Loen is the longest bridge in Europe, clocking in at a staggering 36 meters (this can only be done by booking a guided tour). You will also find plenty of hiking trails at Mount Hoven, varying in distance and difficulty, so you’ll find a trail that suits you and your skill levels.
Strandafjell
While many of the mountains on this list are best visited during the summertime, Strandafjell is considered a winter destination. This mountain lies almost at the center of one of Norway’s most famous ski resorts and boasts more than 14 kilometers of cross-country tracks.
If you plan on visiting during the summertime, you won’t be met with the usual Alpine-like blanket of snow covering the mountain, but rather lush forests. You can take the gondola up to the top to enjoy the views while eating at the restaurant.
Kolsastoppen
This two-peak mountain is yet another that can be found close to the capital city (it’s roughly a 25-minute drive northwest of Oslo). The peaks are divided into north and south, with Nordre Kolsasbanen clocking in at a height of about 379 meters and Southern Kolsasbanen clocking in at about 343 meters.
Kolsastoppen is famous for its popular hiking trail through the nature reserve’s forest, offering breathtaking views over Baerum, Oslo, and Oslo Fjord. The hike will take about four hours (round trip), so come prepared. To reach Kolsasbanen is simple when using public transport. Just grab the No. 150 bus from the Oslo Bus Terminal, which will take you directly to Stein Gard, where you can begin your hike.
Myrdal
Myrdal offers scenes that seem to come straight out of a storybook. One of the best ways to experience this mountain range is by taking the almost 20-kilometer-long rail route of the historic Flam Railway. You will have magnificent mountain views, pass traditional red farmhouses, and go through the greenest valleys (when visiting in the summer, of course).
You will pass the Rjoandefossen Waterfall, with water plunging almost 140 meters down the mountain, and you’ll even pass the historic Flam Stave Church, built in 1667! You’ll go through the Nali Tunnel (1300 meters long) and see the Reinungavatnet Lake. Also, keep a lookout for our white mountain goats nibbling away at the grass and other vegetation growing along the mountain slopes.
Mount Ulriken
Mount Ulriken is one of the city of Bergen’s seven mountains (and it’s steepest!). Here, you can hike to the top of the mountain (there are various trails to choose from, and most will take you only an hour). Or you can take the cable car.
At the top, you can admire the view or grab a bit at Skyskraperen Restaurant (but please book in advance to avoid disappointment). You can also book a spot on a guided tour that will take you on a journey to the neighboring Vidden Peak (this tour takes about three hours back and forth).
Mount Floyen
At Mount Floyen, Norwegians have put the fun in Funicular, and if you don’t feel like hiking your way to the top, you can get onto the Floibanen Funicular. This is also a hop-on-hop-off situation, making it a great way of exploring the area. Now, when we talk about hiking Mount Floyen, it’s a bit misleading because this “hike” basically entails walking the winding streets of the city of Bergen up to the summit.
It will only take about an hour, and the walk is suitable for all ages and fitness levels (although it might be a bit challenging for smaller tots and the elderly). But this is just where the fun begins at Mount Floyen. You can go biking or canoeing on Lake Skomakerdiket, picnic in the designated picnic area, or grab a bite at Skomakersuen Café.
Can You Hear Norway’s Mountains Calling?
Does any of the Norwegian Mountains on our list speak to you? Is there a specific Norway Mountain just shouting out an invitation to climb, explore, and stand in absolute wonder? Or do they all sound so good that it would be impossible to choose? Luckily, you don’t have to. If you rent a motorhome in Norway, you can cruise through the country and experience all our mountainous marvels with their myriad outdoor adventures!
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