Norway

Hiking and Yoga Weekend Adventure

4 nights from £1125 • €1365 • $1430

Activities

3 days guided adventures

Accommodation

4 nights mountain hotel

Level

Beginner friendly

Food

Delicious restaurant meals

Difficulty

Group Size

Moderate to challenging

Transfers

12 new friends

Dates

Fly into Oslo, Norway

June - September

Join Gutsy Girls this summer for an unforgettable guided hiking holiday in the breathtaking scenery of Norway. Explore two stunning national parks, Rondane and Jotunheimen, over an action-packed long weekend.

Spend your days immersed in awe-inspiring landscapes, conquering mountain trails alongside passionate local guides. They'll lead you on unforgettable adventures in Norway's untouched wilderness, ensuring you experience the best of what these parks have to offer, whilst building your skills and confidence in the outdoors.

This hiking adventure is designed for active women. While you don't need to be a seasoned hiker, a good base level of fitness is essential. Be prepared for long days exploring remote locations on rugged trails, with distances ranging from 12 to 24 km daily.

Get ready to conquer Besseggen, one of Norway's most iconic hikes. This challenging route demands a head for heights, but rewards you with panoramic vistas that will leave you speechless.

We'll be staying at Venabu, our favourite family-run mountain hotel – a haven for Gutsy Girls seeking adventure and relaxation. The lodge boasts incredible food, a welcoming atmosphere, stunning views, a rejuvenating sauna, and even a lake perfect for wild swimming – the ultimate way to cool down after a challenging hike!

Location

Norway is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, and the country's national parks offer some of the most stunning hiking experiences in the world. On this adventure we’ll be exploring both Rondane, and Jotunheimen.

Jotunheimen National Park, aptly nicknamed "The Home of the Giants," lives up to its name. Towering peaks pierce the sky, their jagged forms sculpted by ancient glaciers. Among them, Galdhøpiggen, the highest summit in Northern Europe, rises majestically. Deep valleys cradle sparkling lakes, reflecting the grandeur above. Cascading waterfalls add a touch of untamed beauty, completing this awe-inspiring landscape.

Activities

Jotunheimen

Jotunheimen National Park, aptly nicknamed "The Home of the Giants," lives up to its name. Towering peaks pierce the sky, their jagged forms sculpted by ancient glaciers. Among them, Galdhøpiggen, the highest summit in Northern Europe, rises majestically. Deep valleys cradle sparkling lakes, reflecting the grandeur above. Cascading waterfalls add a touch of untamed beauty, completing this awe-inspiring landscape.

Besseggen Ridge

Our adventure culminates with a challenging yet rewarding hike along the iconic Besseggen Ridge. This world-famous route is renowned for its breathtaking panoramas that will leave you speechless. Be prepared for sections that involve scrambling, and a head for heights.

Our hikes throughout the trip will be designed with a purpose – to gradually build your skills and confidence as we approach the iconic Besseggen Ridge. Each day will present new challenges, helping you develop the necessary abilities for the more demanding sections of Besseggen. With two experienced guides leading the group, you'll have plenty of support and expert advice throughout the journey.

Rondane

Step back in time and explore Rondane National Park, Norway's oldest. This pristine wilderness, nestled in the eastern part of the country, boasts a dramatic mountain landscape. Ten majestic peaks pierce the sky, each exceeding 2,000 meters in altitude.

Over two days, we'll embark on carefully chosen hikes that showcase the park's breathtaking beauty. Immerse yourself in the fresh mountain air as you traverse scenic trails. And for the truly adventurous, there'll be opportunities to cool off with an invigorating dip in a crystal-clear lake – a refreshing reward after a day of exploration.

Guided Hiking

Dive into a captivating three-day hiking adventure in Norway's majestic national parks. Each day offers a unique route, ranging from a gentle 12km exploration to more challenging 15km and 20km hikes with up to 1100m of elevation gain. Expect to spend around 9 hours each day surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.

Our passionate and experienced mountain guides are dedicated to helping you become a more confident hiker. Throughout your adventure, they'll provide valuable instruction on essential skills like:

Hiking Technique: Master the use of provided hiking poles, navigate various terrains with ease, and develop a comfortable pace for long distances.

Basic Navigation: Gain valuable skills in map reading and compass use, empowering you to explore independently in the future.

Nature Connection: Develop a deeper appreciation for the surrounding environment as your guides introduce you to the unique flora of the region.

Supportive Experience

With two guides leading the group, we have the flexibility to adapt our planned routes if needed. This allows us to create smaller groups based on individual pacing or desired challenge level. This ensures everyone gets the most out of the experience, regardless of their previous experience.

Scrambling

Scrambling is a method of ascending rocky faces and ridges that is a blend of hiking and climbing, typically requiring the use of both hands and feet. It's less technical than climbing but more challenging than hiking, often involving navigating steep, rocky sections where ropes aren't usually necessary.

Yoga

To complement our long active days, we’ll unwind with 3 yoga sessions. The classes are great for all levels and if the weather suits, we'll take our practice outside by the lake!

Fitness and Experience Level

  • You’ll need to be hiking fit for this adventure. While you don't need to be an experienced hiker, you will need good endurance, some power in the legs for climbing uphill and a positive attitude towards challenges!


    Trip Difficulty: We've rated this trip as moderate to challenging, considering the terrain, distances, and elevation. It's vital to have a good level of fitness and endurance to fully enjoy and participate in the hikes.

  • Duration: On the more challenging days, expect to hike for up to 9 hours. These hikes will take you through remote and wild landscapes, offering a true wilderness experience.

    Distance: The hikes will cover distances of 15km, 20km, and 12km. Assess your ability to handle these distances in mountainous terrain.

    Elevation: Be prepared for uphill climbs reaching up to 1100m. Comfort with both ascending and descending is important.

  • Terrain: Expect rocky and uneven trails in some areas, adding to the hike's intensity.

    Scrambling: Some parts of the hike will involve some scrambling, which requires using your hands and feet to navigate terrain, without the need for ropes.

    Heights: The hike includes exposed ridges, so a comfort level with heights is necessary.

    Consecutive Days of Activity: The itinerary involves hiking for three consecutive days, which can be physically demanding and requires stamina.

    Weather Considerations: While we hope for sunny days, the weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Come prepared with appropriate clothing for hiking in various weather conditions, including rain

  • We'll be staying in Venabu; our favourite family run mountain hotel with stunning views from every window.

    It's cosy and traditional, with a lounge with an open fire, yoga studio, sauna and a lake for wild swimming.

  • We’ll be treated to delicious food for breakfast and lunch and enjoy a 3 course meal each evening as well as a chance to sample delicious Norwegian dishes!

    We can cater for all dietary requirements.

Itinerary

Dates

    • Sat 21 June - Wed 25 June

    • Sat 5 July - Wed 9 July

    • Fri 18 July - Tue 22 July

    • Mon 11 August - Fri 15 August

    • Thu 28 August - Mon 1 September

    • Mon 8 September - Fri 12 September

Price

Twin Room Ensuite

£1125 (approx. €1365 / $1430)

Private Room Ensuite

£1300 (approx. €1575 / $1650)

Please note: Only 4 private rooms are available on each date, early booking is advised.

  • Gutsy Girls is a UK-based adventure company welcoming women worldwide. Prices are in pounds (£) with estimates in euros (€) and US dollars ($). The final amount dependant on your card provider’s conversion rate at time of payment and may fluctuate.

  • Secure your spot with a 30% deposit; the balance is due 45 days before the trip.

Included

  • 3 days guided hiking with two local mountain leaders

  • 3 yoga classes

  • 4 nights accommodation in mountain hotel

  • All meals - breakfast, lunch and 3-course dinners

  • Free coffee and teas in lounge at all times

  • Gutsy Girls host

  • Transfers to and from Ringebu train station

    • Flights

    • Train tickets - approx £30 each way

    • Personal travel insurance

    • Personal clothing

    • Alcoholic drinks

  • Cancellations are effective from the date we receive your written notice via email. The following fees apply:

    • 100% of the trip cost if cancelled 44 days or less before the trip.

    • 30% of the trip cost if cancelled 45 days or more before the trip.

    Full terms and conditions are available for review before you book and make payment

Travel

  • Ringebu train station

    You are responsible for booking flights and trains to Ringebu. 

    We will pick you up from Ringebu train station at either 16:53 or 18:49 (or 18:35 on some Saturdays). These transfer times line up with our recommended trains below. The transfer to the hotel is a 20-minute drive.

  • Arrival Flight to Oslo Gardermoen:

    Book a morning flight to Oslo Gardermoen Airport. Aim to arrive at least 1 hour before your train departure time to Ringebu, preferably more.

    Train from Oslo Gardermoen to Ringebu

    Book one of the following trains:
    Depart 14:29 Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen), Arrive 16:53 at Ringebu Station
    Depart 16:29 Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen), Arrive 18:49 at Ringebu Station

    On some Saturdays:

    Depart 14:29 Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen), Arrive 16:53 at Ringebu Station
    Depart 15:59 Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen), Arrive 18:35 at Ringebu Station (Train to Lillehammer, then change to bus VY710 to Ringebu)

    For details on booking your trains please read our FAQs.

  • We will transfer you from the hotel to Ringebu station in time for the following trains: 12:06 or 14:27.

  • Train from Ringebu to Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen)

    Book one of the following trains:
    Depart 12:06 Ringebu Station, Arrive 14:21 at Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen)
    Depart 13:57 Ringebu Station, Arrive 16:20 at Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen)

    For details on booking your trains please read our FAQs.

    Departure Flight from Oslo Gardermoen to home:

    Book an afternoon or evening flight from Oslo Gardermoen Airport. Ensure there’s at least 2 hours between your train arrival from Ringebu and your flight departure.

Packing List

    • Trekking poles

    • Waterproof backpack covers

    • Gaiters

    • Lunch boxes

  • Personal

    • Water bottles - 1x2l or 2x1l at least

    • OR a hydration bladder (2 - 3 litres) - recommended

    • Toiletries

    • Personal medication

    • Daypack for storing lunch, water and layers during the hikes

    • Sunscreen

    • Insect repellent

    • Sunglasses

    • Thermos for hot drinks (optional)

    • Snacks

    • Hand warmers if you’re a cold person and it’s a cold week!

    Clothes

    • Hiking boots (mandatory) - these should be waterproof and have good ankle support.

    • Well fitting hiking socks

    • Hardshell jacket (waterproof) (mandatory)

    • Waterproof overtrousers (mandatory)

    • Insulated jacket (lightweight down or synthetic)

    • Hiking trousers - at least one pair even for warmer weeks

    • Hiking shorts if it looks warm for your week

    • T-shirts - lightweight and fast drying

    • Thin and thicker mid layers

    • Fleece or jumper

    • Layers you can take on and off throughout the day as the temperature changes

    • Warmer clothes for cooler evenings

    • Slippers - you can wear these round the hotel

    • Cap or Sunhat

    • Buff

    • Warm hat

    • Gloves

    • Swimwear & small travel towel for lake swimming and the sauna

    • Compeed or moleskin for blisters, just in case!

    • Yoga wear

Questions?

If you have any questions, check our FAQs or drop us a message below!