{"id":36282,"date":"2026-04-22T23:14:05","date_gmt":"2026-04-22T21:14:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/niet-gecategoriseerd\/central-norway-tour-7-day-winter-tour\/"},"modified":"2026-06-21T09:54:32","modified_gmt":"2026-06-21T07:54:32","slug":"central-norway-tour-7-day-winter-tour","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/norway\/central-norway\/central-norway-tour-7-day-winter-tour\/","title":{"rendered":"Central Norway Tour: 7-Day Winter Tour"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Central Norway: 7 Days of Snow, Silence, and Unexpected Adventure<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a side of Norway that most travelers never see. Not the fjords near Bergen, not the famous Lofoten Islands, but the vast, quiet heart of the country. Nestled between Oppdal in the north and Lillehammer in the south, three national parks lie waiting in relative obscurity: Rondane, Dovrefjell, and Jotunheimen. We visited this area at the end of the long Norwegian winter and returned with frozen eyelashes, tired muscles, and travel memories we won\u2019t soon forget.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This tour through central Norway combines a short stop in Oslo with an authentic lodge on the outskirts of Rondane, snowshoeing through two national parks, backcountry skiing, a musk ox hunt, and a day of husky sledding in Jotunheimen. Active, unspoiled, and far from the tourist hotspots\u2014exactly the way we like it. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"Dovrefjell Nationaal Park: met gids op zoek naar muskusossen bij Rondane River Lodge.\" width=\"1080\" height=\"608\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/whFVnYgWLfo?feature=oembed\"  allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/central-norway\/hiking-through-norways-oldest-national-parks-the-classic-rondane-dovre-traverse\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/noorwegen\/midden-noorwegen\/rondane-dovre-hike\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Read more here about our 8-day self-guided trek through Rondane and Dovre with a local expert<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Brief Overview of the Route Through Central Norway<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The trip takes you north from Oslo to the Rondane Valley, then on to Dovrefjell, and finally to the foothills of Jotunheimen. Total driving distance: approximately 600 kilometers, spread over seven days. A 4WD or hybrid SUV is not a luxury but a necessity: the mountain passes are unpredictable during the winter and are sometimes closed.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 1: Arrival in Oslo<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Arriving at Gardermoen in the afternoon, Oslo is the logical first stop. From the airport, you can reach the city in less than an hour. We stayed at the Saga Hotel, a boutique hotel just west of downtown (within walking distance or easily accessible by tram). It\u2019s not big, not crowded, and that fits perfectly with the vibe of this trip.   <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32813\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/2-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Oslo - A Glimpse\" class=\"wp-image-32813\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32812\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Oslo - Saga Hotel Lobby\" class=\"wp-image-32812\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32814\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/3-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Oslo - street\" class=\"wp-image-32814\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Tip<\/strong>: Are you planning to drive straight north after you arrive? It\u2019s best to do this while it\u2019s still light out. Mountain roads can be subject to extreme weather conditions in the winter. The last thing you want is to get stranded in the dark on an unfamiliar mountain pass.   <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 2: Oslo at Your Own Pace<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There\u2019s no need to rush in Oslo. We decided to explore on foot and let the city unfold before us. From Vigeland Park, with its impressive collection of sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, to the creative neighborhood of Gr\u00fcnerl\u00f8kka, and then on to the waterfront.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"1920\" data-id=\"32816\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/4-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Oslo - Vigeland Park - Gustav Vigeland\" class=\"wp-image-32816\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/4-683x1024.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/4-980x1470.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/4-480x720.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1280px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32817\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/5-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Oslo - street art\" class=\"wp-image-32817\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32818\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/6-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Oslo - Aker Brygge - Fideicommissum\" class=\"wp-image-32818\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A stroll through the city will also immediately introduce you to some of its smaller, more intimate spots, such as the Telthusbakken: a winding little street lined with old wooden houses that overlook the city. Be sure to sample the delicious bread and coffee at one of the many spots in Gr\u00fcnnerl\u00f8kka. <\/p>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Tip: <\/strong>Don&#8217;t <strong>leave <\/strong>Oslo without visiting a seafood restaurant. We chose the small restaurant Fiskeriet on Youngstorget Square. Reservations are a must if you don&#8217;t want to wait outside in the cold.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32819\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/7-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Oslo - Anniek by a puddle of water\" class=\"wp-image-32819\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32820\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/8-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Oslo - Sauna by the Water\" class=\"wp-image-32820\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32821\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/9-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Oslo - Opera House - Kids on the Go\" class=\"wp-image-32821\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 3: North to Rondane River Lodge<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After two days in the city, it\u2019s time to really hit the road. The destination is Rondane River Lodge: a small-scale lodge with cabins and rooms in a quiet valley next to Rondane National Park, about a four-hour drive from Oslo. The lodge is run by a Belgian family, is <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/groene-reistips\/duurzaam-overnachten\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"16427\">Green Key certified<\/a>, and has sustainability deeply woven into its DNA\u2014right down to the way breakfast is served: you fill out your order form the night before so that nothing goes to waste.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here, nature sets the pace. That might feel a little strange at first. After a day or two, though, it\u2019s exactly the feeling you came here for.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32822\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/10-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Central Norway - Road to Rondane National Park\" class=\"wp-image-32822\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32823\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/11-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Rondane River Lodge - Lodges in the Snow\" class=\"wp-image-32823\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32824\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/12-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Rondane River Lodge - Breakfast\" class=\"wp-image-32824\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Tip: Check <\/strong>the current road conditions at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vegvesen.no\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.vegvesen.no\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">vegvesen.no<\/a> before you leave. The Venabygdsfjellet mountain pass (Route 27), which is also the direct connection between the lodge and the E6, is frequently closed in winter. The alternative route via the E3 is slightly less spectacular, but always passable.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 4: First snowshoe hike<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We found out today that the weather was once again calling the shots. Due to strong winds and deep snow, the mountain pass leading to our activity was closed. So it was a good thing we had some flexibility in our schedule. That meant we could spend the day however we wanted. On the lodge\u2019s advice, we stayed in our own valley.      <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Less than a 5-minute drive from the lodge is the start of a hike to the summit of Sore Vola. From there, you\u2019ll have a beautiful view of the valley and the Atna River. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32827\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/15-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Central Norway - Snowshoe Hike\" class=\"wp-image-32827\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32826\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/14-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Central Norway - snowshoe hike - poles\" class=\"wp-image-32826\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32825\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/13-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Central Norway - snowshoe hike - view\" class=\"wp-image-32825\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tip: In winter, bring snowshoes with spikes and get good advice on how to reach the summit (we missed the signs and eventually decided to turn back after climbing a few kilometers).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 5: Backcountry skiing to Mount Pika<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A 9-kilometer hike to the summit of Mount Pika begins a ten-minute drive from the lodge. We aren\u2019t experienced skiers, and we certainly felt it. But that wasn\u2019t the only thing that made this day challenging. At the top of the mountain, the weather took a turn for the worse. Wind, visibility that vanished, and snow blowing horizontally.    <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And yet: the view in every direction was phenomenal. And halfway down the descent, we saw a rare herd of wild reindeer roaming the landscape. A moment you don\u2019t plan for\u2014and that makes it all the more unforgettable.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32829\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/17-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Backcountry skiing to Mount Pika - break\" class=\"wp-image-32829\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32830\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/18-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Backcountry Skiing to Mount Pika - Snow\" class=\"wp-image-32830\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32848\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Backcountry skiing to Mount Pika\" class=\"wp-image-32848\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Tip: Backcountry <\/strong>skiing in Norway during the winter is a serious undertaking. Never go alone. Choose a route and difficulty level that match your fitness level and skiing experience. Going with a guide is safer and makes for a much more memorable experience.   <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 6: Spotting musk oxen in Dovrefjell<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No rest day, but another strenuous physical activity. We drove along the beautiful route toward Hjerkinn (be sure to make a few stops along the way!), from where we (together with our guide) set out on our second snowshoe hike. This time in the slightly better-known Dovrefjell National Park.    <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our target was the musk ox. But that turned out to be no easy task in this vast area. After two hours of climbing, we spotted three musk oxen in the very distance. Not close enough for a perfect portrait, but close enough to realize just how remarkable it is that these animals are still here at all. The view, however, was just as remarkable. Although we were able to make part of the descent without snowshoes, the extremely strong wind literally blew us off our feet.     <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32833\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/21-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Dovrefjell - forest\" class=\"wp-image-32833\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32832\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/20-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Dovrefjell - Spotting Musk Oxen\" class=\"wp-image-32832\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32831\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/19-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Snow-covered mountains and valleys\" class=\"wp-image-32831\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dovrefjell is one of the few places in the world where you can encounter musk oxen in the wild. These prehistoric animals survived the Ice Age and have been living in these mountains for thousands of years.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tip: Make sure to bring plenty of snacks and extra layers of clothing. The first part of the hike is uphill (sometimes very steep), so you\u2019ll work up a good sweat. Once you reach the summit and on the way down, you\u2019ll definitely need extra layers to keep you warm.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-9-16 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"Hondenslee rijden in Jotunheimen, een unieke belevenis bij Jotunheimen Nationaal Park in Noorwegen\" width=\"563\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/8DttyAOkczQ?feature=oembed\"  allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day 7: Dog Sledding in Jotunheimen<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the seventh day, a one-and-a-half-hour drive took us to Randsverk, on the edge of Jotunheimen National Park. Here, about forty huskies await visitors at Jotunheimen Husky Lodge\u2014a place where the staff clearly loves the dogs. The welcome was personal, and the dog-sled tour through the snow-covered landscape was breathtaking.   <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32834\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/22-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Central Norway - Husky\" class=\"wp-image-32834\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32835\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/23-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Central Norway - Husky Sled Tour\" class=\"wp-image-32835\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"1920\" data-id=\"32836\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/24-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Central Norway - Husky Sled Tour - Campfire\" class=\"wp-image-32836\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/24-683x1024.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/24-980x1470.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/24-480x720.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1280px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It wasn&#8217;t just the ride itself that exceeded our expectations. The whole experience\u2014harnessing the dogs, the sound of the sled gliding over the snow, the trees whizzing by\u2014felt like the perfect finale to a week full of physical and mental experiences. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We left our Belgian hosts feeling more than satisfied, before heading home via the mountain pass.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32849\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/2-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Central Norway - Rondane River Lodge - Lounge\" class=\"wp-image-32849\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32838\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/26-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Central Norway - Rondane River Lodge - Breakfast Room\" class=\"wp-image-32838\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32839\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/27-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Central Norway - Road in the Snow - Drone\" class=\"wp-image-32839\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tip: If the weather permits, plan to spend a full day on this side of the mountain and, if you\u2019d like, take a walk near the village\u2014for example, to the river with the small waterfall.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Practical Information for a Tour of Central Norway in Norway<\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How do you get there?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Flights: Transavia, SAS, and KLM offer direct flights to Oslo Gardermoen from the Netherlands several times a week.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Car rental: A 4WD or hybrid SUV is highly recommended in the winter, especially as you head north. Sixt is located right below the arrivals hall (convenient and a good experience). Ask for a winter package that includes snow chains.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Driving: Norwegian roads are generally well-maintained, but be sure to check the weather reports at vegvesen.no. There are toll roads; rental cars are usually equipped with a system that charges the toll retroactively. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Speed: Stick to the speed limits. Traffic fines in Norway are steep. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>When are you leaving?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Norway is a great place to visit all year round. The end of winter (February through mid-April) offers the best combination: plenty of snow in the mountains, longer days than in December and January, and quieter roads than during peak season. It\u2019s ideal if you want to be active without the crowds.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Where are you staying?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oslo: Saga Hotel. A boutique hotel in a quiet location, a great base for a city break. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rondane: <a href=\"https:\/\/rondaneriverlodge.no\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/rondaneriverlodge.no\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rondane River Lodge<\/a>. Small-scale, Green Key-certified, run by a Belgian family with extensive knowledge of the area. Book directly through the lodge.    <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Jotunheimen area: Jotunheimen Husky Lodge in Randsverk, if you want to spend a night on the edge of the park.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-10 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32850\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/3-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-32850\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32851\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/4-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-32851\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"32852\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/5-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-32852\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Helpful Tips for the Road<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fueling: There are more than enough gas stations in the area we visited. Our rule of thumb is: fill up when the tank is half full. That way, you\u2019ll never run into unexpected problems.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Groceries: About ten minutes from Rondane River Lodge, you&#8217;ll find a Joker supermarket for your daily shopping.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lunch: Rondane River Lodge gives you the option to order bread for lunch by 9:00 p.m. the night before. It comes from the nearby bakery, Elt Bakeri. It\u2019s excellent!  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions About a Winter Trip to Central Norway<\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Is Central Norway suitable for inexperienced winter hikers in Norway?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, as long as you bring the right gear and get advice from the locals. Snowshoe hikes start at the lodge and are suitable for beginners. Backcountry skiing requires more experience: never go without a guide.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the three national parks in this area?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rondane (Norway\u2019s oldest national park, established in 1962), Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella (known for its musk oxen) and Jotunheimen (home to Scandinavia\u2019s highest mountains, including Galdh\u00f8piggen at 2,469 meters). Each park has its own character and level of accessibility. <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Can you spot musk oxen in Dovrefjell?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, but it takes patience, stamina, and a bit of luck. The tours are led by local guides who know the best routes. There\u2019s never a guarantee\u2014but that\u2019s exactly what makes wildlife so special.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How dangerous are Norwegian winter roads?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The roads are generally in good condition, but mountain passes may be closed unexpectedly due to extreme snow or wind. Always check vegvesen.no for the most up-to-date information. A 4WD and winter tires are not overkill.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"Hiken Noorwegen: waarschuwing kleding in bergen Noorwegen\" width=\"1080\" height=\"608\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/VwuEk5XsSdc?feature=oembed\"  allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Road Trip Through Central Norway on the Map<\/h2>\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/0\/embed?mid=1Tg4HjSxN49ld9sbYRbLWFFhumMQgIUI&#038;ehbc=2E312F&#038;noprof=1\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Central Norway: 7 Days of Snow, Silence, and Unexpected Adventure There is a side of Norway that most travelers never see. Not the fjords near Bergen, not the famous Lofoten Islands, but the vast, quiet heart of the country. Nestled between Oppdal in the north and Lillehammer in the south, three national parks lie waiting [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":29,"featured_media":36283,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[232,230,212],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-36282","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-central-norway","category-norway","category-road-trips"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36282","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/29"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=36282"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36282\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/36283"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=36282"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=36282"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=36282"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}