Experiences
Besseggen ridge hike: Norway’s most famous mountain walk
A boat across Gjende, a narrow ridge between a green and a blue lake, and views over half of Jotunheimen. How to hike Besseggen, when to go and where to stay.
On one side lies Gjende, green as bottle glass. On the other, hundreds of metres higher, lies Bessvatnet, dark and blue. Between them runs a narrow ridge, and you stand in the middle with the wind in your hair and all of Jotunheimen around you. No wonder Ibsen sent Peer Gynt across this very spot, on the back of a reindeer.
Besseggen is Norway’s most famous mountain hike, crossed by tens of thousands of people every summer. Here is everything you need to hike it, and the hotels where you can sleep well afterwards.
The links to the hotels and experiences are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
How to hike Besseggen
The classic route starts with the Gjende boat from Gjendesheim to Memurubu. From there you hike back over Besseggen to Gjendesheim. The route is about 14 kilometres and takes six to eight hours, with a steep and exposed climb up the ridge.
Season: the boat runs from mid June to mid September. Outside the season the hike is for experienced hikers only.
Book the boat: on fine summer days it fills up, so buy a ticket in advance or take the first departure.
Gear: sturdy boots, wind and rain gear, extra wool layers, food and water. The weather changes fast in Jotunheimen.
Without the boat: you can hike a loop from Gjendesheim over Veslfjellet and back, but it is longer and less spectacular.
Besseggen is a demanding mountain hike. Turn back if fog, wind or rain settles on the ridge.
Where to stay for the Besseggen hike
Gjendesheim has a Norwegian Trekking Association lodge, but the nearest hotels are on Valdresflye, around Bygdin and down towards Beitostølen. From here it is a short drive to the boat.
Bygdin Fjellhotell
Bygdin Fjellhotell by the lake below Bitihorn.
Bygdin Fjellhotell
Bygdin Fjellhotell sits by Lake Bygdin, below Bitihorn, on the road between Valdres and Gjendesheim. It is a classic mountain hotel with breakfast included and the mountains right outside.
Book your stay: See rooms at Bygdin Fjellhotell
Herangtunet Mountain Lodge
Herangtunet is a cluster of log cabins in Øystre Slidre, near Hegge stave church. Stay cosy with quality bedding and breakfast included, a scenic drive from Jotunheimen.
Book your stay: See rooms at Herangtunet
Riddergaarden Hotel & Mountain Lodge
Riddergaarden is in Beitostølen, with apartments and an indoor pool. A good choice for families or if you want to combine Besseggen with more hikes in Valdres.
Book your stay: See rooms at Riddergaarden
When is the best time to hike Besseggen?
From late June to early September, when the boat runs and the snow has melted on the ridge. July is the busiest month. For fewer people, go on a weekday in August or early September.
Besseggen ridge FAQ
How long is the Besseggen hike?
The classic route from Memurubu to Gjendesheim is about 14 kilometres and takes six to eight hours.
Is the Besseggen ridge dangerous?
It is not technical, but the climb up the ridge is steep and exposed. In good weather it is fine for people of normal fitness. In fog, rain or strong wind, wait.
When does the Gjende boat run?
The Gjende boat runs from mid June to mid September, with several departures a day in high season.
Can children hike Besseggen?
Many children from around ten years old do the hike with adults. It is a long day, so they should be used to long mountain walks.
Where should I stay for the Besseggen hike?
Bygdin Fjellhotell is the closest hotel, while Herangtunet and Riddergaarden are in Valdres, a short drive away.