Øystre Torfinnstinden
Øystre Torfinnstinden

Discover Jotunheimen: Red Route (8-days)

Expand on your “Green Route” with a guided hike over the Besseggen ridge, and an extra day with a guided hike to the Uranostind glacier.

Welcome to our amazing 8-day Jotunheimen Red Route Itinerary to the most impressive peaks and valleys in the region, intended for adults in good physical shape and condition, with previous hiking experience from alpine mountain areas. You’ll be accompanied by experienced local guides for the most strenuous hike, the Glacier hike to peak Uranostind, but sure-footedness is required to enjoy it. This will be a rewarding experience that’ll allow you to tick some classic Norwegian summits off your bucket list! The minimum total route is 70 km, but maximum route can vary between 75 km and 80 km.

This is an extended version of our Green Route, designed for those who have some more hiking experience and who want to challenge themselves. Hike the popular Besseggen trail, a classic adventure for Norwegians. Over the years more and more tourists have been drawn to take the journey across this mountain ridge, in the footsteps of great adventurers. In recent years, an estimate of around 60 000 hikers cross this popular ride annually. It’s attraction lies both in its mesmerising scenery, from the turquoise waters of the Gjende lake, to the spectacular view of mountain ridges and peaks into the far distance, as well as in its demanding terrain; steep descents and ascents, and long trails. Its cultural significance and strenuous nature has made it an important point of reference in Norwegian culture and it is a true rite of passage for Norwegian hikers.

You will climb the majestic Bitihorn (1607 masl), and take the the M/B Bitihorn across the beautiful Bygdin Lake, and trek through Svartdalen and Veslådalen. The journey through Svartdalen is one of the most appreciated and respected treks among Norwegian outdoor adventurers. The arduous walk combined with dramatic mountains towering over you from all sides can make you feel like you’re in an old folk tale. On misty days this sentiment is emphasised as the pale light allows for the “reveal” of indistinct faces in the mountains and mythical mountain creatures hiding behind the cliffs. On clearer days, you can see the magnificent white peaks rising on either side of you, including Knutsholstiden, once believed to be the tallest mountain in Norway. The trek to Fondsbu via Veslådalen is a very popular hike that connects two traditional lodges, Gjendebu and Fondsbu DNT.

The last hike, is the glacier journey to the iconic Uranostind (2157 masl). This demanding trek takes you over a glacier with crevasses, and you will do some easy climbing and then crawl out on the top ridge and admire the spectacular view from the summit. The weather at high altitudes in Norway can change quickly, and snowstorms can happen every month of the summer.

This itinerary includes a free day for you to get a chance to rest and enjoy a relaxing day at Gjendebu Lodge. Alternatively you could spend this day exploring an optional hike such as the hike from Memurubu to Gjendebu across Bukkelægret; walking along the Ridge of Sjugurdtinden you will have access to the panoramas on all sides of the ridge; overlooking the Gjende lake in the East, the mesmerising valley of Memurudalen going North-West, the mountainous landscape in the West and the steep peaks towering over the Gjende lake in the South. This is arguably one of the best and subsequently one of the more heavily underrated views in the area. This trek offers an exciting blend of mountain and nature hiking as well as it allows you to put your climbing skills to the test.

As another option, you can try a less arduous hike, namely Gjendetunga. This is perfect for those who want to indulge in a nice, relaxing and shorter trek, but who don’t want to go without a panoramic view experience. Towering over Gjendebu, Gjendetunga lies at 1516 masl and is “a not to miss” hike if you’re in this area. On clear days you can enjoy your lunch at the top of the mountain overlooking Gjende and its surrounding mountains. This is a road less travelled, but the Gjendetunga hike has earned its rightful place as one of the best ways to experience Gjende.

Stay in classic and historic lodges such as the Bygdin Hotel, Fondsbu DNT, Gjendesheim and Gjendebu, where people from all over the come together to share their experiences, in peaceful and friendly ambiences in the heart of nature.

On this tour we also support you with luggage transportation during the trek and with bus transportation to and from Oslo or Bergen.

Transfer:

  • Included

Meal plan:

  • Hiking Board: Breakfast, Lunch to go & Dinner

Luggage transportation:

  • From Bygdin Høifieldshotell to Gjendebu DNT
  • From Gjendebu DNT to Gjendesheim DNT
  • From Gjendesheim DNT to Fondsbu DNT

Accommodation:

  • Day: 1 - Bygdin Høifieldshotell
  • Day: 2 - Bygdin Høifieldshotell
  • Day: 3 - Gjendebu DNT
  • Day: 4 - Gjendebu DNT
  • Day: 5 - Gjendesheim DNT
  • Day: 6 - Fondsbu DNT
  • Day: 7 - Fondsbu DNT

Agenda day 1:

  • Bus: (Nor-Way) Oslo Bus Terminal → Fagernes → Bygdin: 13:05 → 17:33

    Time: 5 hour(s)

    Ride with Valdresekspressen!

    Enjoy the scenic journey from Oslo to the Valdres Region. After leaving the bustle of the capital you will soon find yourself on countryside roads passing through small towns and surrounded by lakes and fields. As you get further into the country, you will see the mountains in the distance and before you know you’ll find yourself climbing the steep roads that take you straight into the national park. The coach has adjustable seats, free WiFi, outlets with USB charging ports and toilet facilities on board.

  • Accommodation: Bygdin Høifieldshotell

    Bygdin Fjellhotel is situated south of Jotunheimen, near the lake "Bygdin" in an altitude of 3910 ft. It is 12km north of Beitostølen and 22 km from Besseggen. The main road 51 over Valdresflya passes the hotel. The Hotel was built in 1912, and in 1955 and 1965 extensions were added on. The hotel has an old-fashioned warm style,which has been maintained throughout the entire building. Bygdin Fjellhotel is situated at the boarder of Jotunheimen National Park, with a view to fantastic scenery over the mountains with peaks up to 6900ft.

  • ©Bygdin Hotel
    ©Bygdin Hotel
    ©Bygdin Hotel
    ©Bygdin Hotel
    Sommer mot vannet – Bygdin Hotel
    Sommer mot vannet – Bygdin Hotel
    Bygdin Hotel
    Bygdin Hotel
    Sommer hotellet ©Bygdin Hotel
    Sommer hotellet ©Bygdin Hotel

Agenda day 2:

  • Hiking: Bitihorn

    Difficulty: Moderate
    Time: 5-8 hour(s)
    Distance: 10 kilometers
    Elevation at peak: 1607 meters
    Ascent height: 600 meters

    Bitihorn at 1607 meters above sea level is one of the classical and easier hikes suited well for beginners in the area. The route start at the doorstep of Bygdin hotel and takes you up to a fantastic panoramic view over Valdres.

  • Bitihorn
    Bitihorn
    Bitihorn
    Bitihorn
    Bitihorn
    Bitihorn
    Bitihorn
    Bitihorn
    Bitihorn
    Bitihorn
  • Accommodation: Bygdin Høifieldshotell

    Bygdin Fjellhotel is situated south of Jotunheimen, near the lake "Bygdin" in an altitude of 3910 ft. It is 12km north of Beitostølen and 22 km from Besseggen. The main road 51 over Valdresflya passes the hotel. The Hotel was built in 1912, and in 1955 and 1965 extensions were added on. The hotel has an old-fashioned warm style,which has been maintained throughout the entire building. Bygdin Fjellhotel is situated at the boarder of Jotunheimen National Park, with a view to fantastic scenery over the mountains with peaks up to 6900ft.

  • ©Bygdin Hotel
    ©Bygdin Hotel
    ©Bygdin Hotel
    ©Bygdin Hotel
    Sommer mot vannet – Bygdin Hotel
    Sommer mot vannet – Bygdin Hotel
    Bygdin Hotel
    Bygdin Hotel
    Sommer hotellet ©Bygdin Hotel
    Sommer hotellet ©Bygdin Hotel

Agenda day 3:

  • Cruise: (M/B Bitihorn) Bygdin → Torfinnsbu: 09:05 → 09:50

    Time: 1 hour(s)

    Cruise on the lake Bygdin with M/B Bitihorn. Between Bygdin and Torfinnsbu.

  • M/B Bitihorn – Eidsbugarden
    M/B Bitihorn – Eidsbugarden
    The ferry Bitihorn on the lake Bygdin taken from Eidsbugarden and Fondsbu
    The ferry Bitihorn on the lake Bygdin taken from Eidsbugarden and Fondsbu
    M/B Bitihorn
    M/B Bitihorn
    M/B Bitihorn
    M/B Bitihorn
    M/B Bitihorn
    M/B Bitihorn
  • Hiking: Svartdalen (The Black Valley)

    Difficulty: Challenging
    Time: 6-8 hour(s)
    Distance: 14 kilometers
    Ascent height: 610 meters

    The popular hiking route from Torfinnsbu to Gjendebu takes you through Svartdalen, meaning “The Black Valley”, which is often referred to as the most beautiful valley in Jotunheimen. As you wander through this lush valley, you'll be surrounded by majestic towering peaks, several of which are over 2000 meters high.

    The Svartdalen track is located in the eastern parts of Jotunheimen, and takes you through the municipalities of Vågå in Gudbrandsdalen, and Vang in Valdres. The route is 14 kilometres long (point-to-point), with an elevation of 610 meters.

  • Svartdalen ©Yngve Ask
    Svartdalen ©Yngve Ask
    Historical Route, Jotunheimen.
    Historical Route, Jotunheimen.
    Gjendebu-to.Torfinnsbu – Svartdalen – Yngve Ask (8)
    Gjendebu-to.Torfinnsbu – Svartdalen – Yngve Ask (8)
    Hiking through Svartdalen towards Torfinnsbu
    Hiking through Svartdalen towards Torfinnsbu
    Gjendebu-to.Torfinnsbu – Svartdalen – Yngve Ask (6)
    Gjendebu-to.Torfinnsbu – Svartdalen – Yngve Ask (6)
  • Accommodation: Gjendebu DNT

    Gjendebu is DNT’s oldest tourist lodge, built in 1871. Its located at the bank on the West of Gjende lake, at 990 m.a.s.l. The lodge has 119 beds, good room standard and shared showers and toilets facilities. Take the boat from Gjendesheim to the end of the lake and enjoy a night or two at Gjendebu!

  • Gjendebu tourist lodge. Historical Route, Jotunheimen.
    Gjendebu tourist lodge. Historical Route, Jotunheimen.
    Inside Gjendines hut at Gjendebu
    Inside Gjendines hut at Gjendebu
    Approaching Gjendebu tourist cabin. Historical Route, Jotunheimen.
    Approaching Gjendebu tourist cabin. Historical Route, Jotunheimen.
    Gjendebu-to.Torfinnsbu – Svartdalen – Yngve Ask (3)
    Gjendebu-to.Torfinnsbu – Svartdalen – Yngve Ask (3)
    Gjendebu-to.Torfinnsbu – Svartdalen – Yngve Ask (9)
    Gjendebu-to.Torfinnsbu – Svartdalen – Yngve Ask (9)

Agenda day 4:

  • Hiking: Gjendetunga (From Gjendebu)

    Difficulty: Moderate
    Time: 3-5 hour(s)
    Distance: 10 kilometers
    Ascent height: 520 meters
    Descent height: 520 meters

    Gjendetunga is the perfect hike for those who want to indulge in a nice, relaxing and shorter trek, but who doesn’t want to go without a panoramic view experience. Towering over Gjendebu, Gjendetunga lies at 1516 MASL (4973, 7 feet) and is “a not to miss” hike if you’re in this area. On clear days you can enjoy your lunch at the top of the mountain overlooking Gjende and its surrounding mountains in the East and the mountains ranges in the West. This is a road less travelled, but the Gjendetunga hike has earned its rightful place as one of the best ways to experience Gjende.

  • Gjendetunga ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Gjendetunga ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Gjendetunga ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Gjendetunga ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Gjendetunga ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Gjendetunga ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Gjendetunga ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Gjendetunga ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Gjendetunga ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Gjendetunga ©Jotunheimen Travel
  • Accommodation: Gjendebu DNT

    Gjendebu is DNT’s oldest tourist lodge, built in 1871. Its located at the bank on the West of Gjende lake, at 990 m.a.s.l. The lodge has 119 beds, good room standard and shared showers and toilets facilities. Take the boat from Gjendesheim to the end of the lake and enjoy a night or two at Gjendebu!

  • Gjendebu tourist lodge. Historical Route, Jotunheimen.
    Gjendebu tourist lodge. Historical Route, Jotunheimen.
    Inside Gjendines hut at Gjendebu
    Inside Gjendines hut at Gjendebu
    Approaching Gjendebu tourist cabin. Historical Route, Jotunheimen.
    Approaching Gjendebu tourist cabin. Historical Route, Jotunheimen.
    Gjendebu-to.Torfinnsbu – Svartdalen – Yngve Ask (3)
    Gjendebu-to.Torfinnsbu – Svartdalen – Yngve Ask (3)
    Gjendebu-to.Torfinnsbu – Svartdalen – Yngve Ask (9)
    Gjendebu-to.Torfinnsbu – Svartdalen – Yngve Ask (9)

Agenda day 5:

  • Cruise: (Gjendebåten) Gjendebu → Memurubu: 08:35 → 08:55

    Gjende lies 984 metres above sea level and has peaks of more than 2,000 metres on all sides. Barely an hour by boat from the car park at Gjendesheim, you have Jotunheimen National Park and many fantastic walks before your feet.

  • Gjendebåten at Gjendebu
    Gjendebåten at Gjendebu
    Gjendebåten
    Gjendebåten
    Besseggen hike – Gjendebåten ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Besseggen hike – Gjendebåten ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Gjendebåten – Gjende.no (1)
    Gjendebåten – Gjende.no (1)
    Gjendebåten – Gjende.no (2)
    Gjendebåten – Gjende.no (2)
  • Hiking: Besseggen (Memurubu ↔ Gjendesheim)

    Difficulty: Difficult
    Time: 7-9 hour(s)
    Distance: 13 kilometers
    Ascent height: 1300 meters

    The popular Besseggen ridge is a route route of about 6-8 hours (breaks included). The Besseggen hike takes you over the spectacular, steep, and some places very narrow trails which plunge four hundred meters straight down into the lake below.

  • Besseggen ©Visit Norway, Chris Arnesen
    Besseggen ©Visit Norway, Chris Arnesen
    Besseggen ©Visit Norway Chris Arnesen
    Besseggen ©Visit Norway Chris Arnesen
    Besseggen
    Besseggen
    Besseggen – Visit Norway, Chris Arnesen
    Besseggen – Visit Norway, Chris Arnesen
    Besseggen ©Visit Norway, Morten Helgesen
    Besseggen ©Visit Norway, Morten Helgesen
  • Accommodation: Gjendesheim DNT

    Gjendesheim has a long history all the way back to 1878. The cabin is run by DNT and located in the heart of the Norwegian mountains, with Besseggen as its neighbour.

  • Gjendesheim
    Gjendesheim
    Gjendesheim
    Gjendesheim
    Gjendesheim
    Gjendesheim
    Gjendesheim
    Gjendesheim
    Gjendesheim DNT
    Gjendesheim DNT

Agenda day 6:

  • Cruise: (Gjendebåten) Gjendesheim → Gjendebu: 07:45 → 08:30

    Gjende lies 984 metres above sea level and has peaks of more than 2,000 metres on all sides. Barely an hour by boat from the car park at Gjendesheim, you have Jotunheimen National Park and many fantastic walks before your feet.

  • Gjendebåten at Gjendebu
    Gjendebåten at Gjendebu
    Gjendebåten
    Gjendebåten
    Besseggen hike – Gjendebåten ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Besseggen hike – Gjendebåten ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Gjendebåten – Gjende.no (1)
    Gjendebåten – Gjende.no (1)
    Gjendebåten – Gjende.no (2)
    Gjendebåten – Gjende.no (2)
  • Hiking: Veslådalen (Gjendebu → Eidsbugarden)

    Difficulty: Moderate
    Time: 5-7 hour(s)
    Distance: 16 kilometers
    Ascent height: 516 meters

    The hiking route between the Gjendebu and Eidsbugard takes you from Lake Gjende to Lake Bygdin through Jotunheimen National Park. Starting off from the birch forest by Gjendebu you follow the Veslådalen valley before heading down to Lake Bygdin and Eidsbugard.

    The hike is long but moderate with no steep ascents. Most of the trail is on soft soil and along the way are views of many of Jotunheimen’s highest peaks.

    Eisbugarden and Fondsbu Lodge have welcomed royalty, celebrities, and hikers from all over the world. This region is the most-visited mountain area north of the Alps.

  • Veslådalen ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Veslådalen ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Veslådalen ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Veslådalen ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Veslådalen ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Veslådalen ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Veslådalen ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Veslådalen ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Veslådalen ©Jotunheimen Travel
    Veslådalen ©Jotunheimen Travel
  • Accommodation: Fondsbu DNT

    Fondsbu DNT is run by Solbjørg and is located at Eidsbugarden on the bank of lake Bygdin. Here you have access to many popular hikes, inculidng glaciers hikes.

  • Eidsbugarden – Fondsbu DNT Cabin
    Eidsbugarden – Fondsbu DNT Cabin
    Solbjørg the host at Fondsbu
    Solbjørg the host at Fondsbu
    Eidsbugarden – Fondsbu DNT Cabin
    Eidsbugarden – Fondsbu DNT Cabin
    Eidsbugarden
    Eidsbugarden
    Burgers at Fondsbu ©Hallgrim Rogn
    Burgers at Fondsbu ©Hallgrim Rogn

Agenda day 7:

  • Guided hike: Uranostind

    Difficulty: Difficult
    Time: 9-12 hour(s)
    Distance: 17 kilometers
    Elevation at peak: 2157 meters
    Ascent height: 1050 meters
    Descent height: 1050 meters

    Uranostind - The Pride of Jotunheimen!

    The iconic Uranostind lies at 2,157 m.a.s.l. This demanding 10-11 hour hike is great for experienced hikers. The hike will take you past Urdadalsvannet on the way to Koldedalen. Once you reach the Glacier there will be a short change of equipment before the hike continues to Uraknatten and the climb to Uranostind. The trek takes you over crevasses, and you will do some easy climbing and then crawl out on the top ridge and admire the spectacular view from the summit. The weather at high altitudes in Norway can change quickly, and snowstorms can happen every month of the summer.

    The hike is long, but the spectacular view at the summit is well worth the trip.

  • On top of peak Uranostind in Jotunheimen – Yngve Ask
    On top of peak Uranostind in Jotunheimen – Yngve Ask
    Uranostind 2019 (17)
    Uranostind 2019 (17)
    Crossing a river the peak Uranostind in the background – Yngve Ask
    Crossing a river the peak Uranostind in the background – Yngve Ask
    Uranostind 2019 (10)
    Uranostind 2019 (10)
    Uranostind 2019 (7)
    Uranostind 2019 (7)
  • Accommodation: Fondsbu DNT

    Fondsbu DNT is run by Solbjørg and is located at Eidsbugarden on the bank of lake Bygdin. Here you have access to many popular hikes, inculidng glaciers hikes.

  • Eidsbugarden – Fondsbu DNT Cabin
    Eidsbugarden – Fondsbu DNT Cabin
    Solbjørg the host at Fondsbu
    Solbjørg the host at Fondsbu
    Eidsbugarden – Fondsbu DNT Cabin
    Eidsbugarden – Fondsbu DNT Cabin
    Eidsbugarden
    Eidsbugarden
    Burgers at Fondsbu ©Hallgrim Rogn
    Burgers at Fondsbu ©Hallgrim Rogn

Agenda day 8:

  • Cruise: (M/B Bitihorn) Eidsbugarden → Bygdin: 11:30 → 13:15

    Cruise on the lake Bygdin with M/B Bitihorn. Between Eidsbugarden and Bygdin.

  • The ferry Bitihorn on the lake Bygdin taken from Eidsbugarden and Fondsbu
    The ferry Bitihorn on the lake Bygdin taken from Eidsbugarden and Fondsbu
    The ferry Bitihorn on the lake Bygdin taken from Eidsbugarden and Fondsbu
    The ferry Bitihorn on the lake Bygdin taken from Eidsbugarden and Fondsbu
    The ferry Bitihorn on the lake Bygdin taken from Eidsbugarden and Fondsbu
    The ferry Bitihorn on the lake Bygdin taken from Eidsbugarden and Fondsbu
    The ferry Bitihorn on the lake Bygdin taken from Eidsbugarden and Fondsbu
    The ferry Bitihorn on the lake Bygdin taken from Eidsbugarden and Fondsbu
    The ferry Bitihorn on the lake Bygdin taken from Eidsbugarden and Fondsbu
    The ferry Bitihorn on the lake Bygdin taken from Eidsbugarden and Fondsbu
  • Bus: (Nor-Way) Bygdin Hotel → Oslo: 17:53 → 22:07

    Time: 4 hour(s)

    Ride with Valdresekspressen!

    Enjoy the scenic journey through the countryside roads passing, through small towns and surrounded by lakes and fields. As you get further into the country, you will see the mountains in the distance and before you know you’ll find yourself climbing the steep roads that take you straight into the national park. The coach has adjustable seats, free WiFi, outlets with USB charging ports and toilet facilities on board.

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