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Holidays

The Jotunheimen of Norway - Private Reffell

Norway
Available Departures: Jul

9 days from

US$3,435

without flights
Walk & Trek
Guided Group
CHALLENGING CHALLENGING

A walking holiday in the Jotunheimen national park, Norway's Land of the Giants

Trip Code: NORZ
Holiday Grades

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

 1 - 3 LEISURELY
1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

For anyone who enjoys exploring on foot rather than always in a vehicle. A mixture of sightseeing and easier walking of around 2-5hrs a day. Walking paths could be around sites, through cities or on well marked trails and at lower altitudes (under 2500m). Regions are rarely flat so some ascent or descents could be expected but rarely above around 300 – 400m per day.

View leisurely holidays
4 - 6 MODERATE
4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as regular walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

Suitable for fit weekend walkers. Consecutive walking days, of around 4-8 hours on generally good paths. Ascents and descents will increase and could be 1000m+ but often less. Some walking may be at higher altitude (3000m – 4500m) with the occasional higher pass and you may have some walking on snow. There may be occasions where you have to carry overnight kit on one or two days.

View moderate holidays
7 - 9 CHALLENGING
7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

Previous trekking experience and a good level of fitness is required for these trips as there will be consecutive days of longer trekking in more remote areas with rougher paths. Days will be around 5-9 hours often with some steep ascents and descents. Some ice/snow trekking is possible with the use of crampons and/ice axe. You may be required to carry a heavier backpack with overnight essentials or equipment for some days and sleeping at higher altitudes (generally up to 5000m).

View challenging holidays
10 - 12 TOUGH
10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

View Tough holidays

The Jotunheimen of Norway - Private Reffell

Highlights
  • Climb Norway’s highest peak, Galdhopiggen (2469m)

  • Outstanding high-mountain trekking in Jotunheimen, including the iconic Besseggen Ridge scramble

  • Spectacular hut-to-hut journey via Glitterheim, travelling deep into Norway’s classic alpine landscapes

  • Stay in cosy, well-equipped mountain huts, with all meals included


At a Glance
  • Group Size 4 to 15
  • 8 days trekking
  • Max altitude - 2472m
  • Join In Otta

Accommodation & Meals
  • All meals included
  • 8 nights Mountain Hut / Refuge
Overview

This is an exciting and challenging walking holiday in the Jotunheimen region of Norway. Known in Norse mythology as the Land of the Giants, Jotunheimen is the largest and most dramatic mountain area in the country, home to Norway’s highest peaks and some of its finest walking terrain.

After transferring from Oslo, the trek begins with one of Norway’s most celebrated routes, the world-famous Besseggen Ridge, a spectacular scramble along a narrow ridge dividing two strikingly coloured lakes. From here, the route heads deeper into the heart of the mountains, following a superb high-mountain journey via Glitterheim and on to Spiterstulen, with long, rewarding days surrounded by classic alpine scenery.

A major highlight of the trip is the ascent of Galdhopiggen (2469m), the highest mountain in Norway, offering wide-ranging views across the surrounding peaks and high plateaus. The journey then continues westwards through increasingly remote landscapes, passing broad valleys, lakes and boulder-strewn terrain shaped by ancient glaciers.

The trek concludes with a beautiful walk out through the dramatic Utladalen Valley, home to one of Norway’s highest waterfalls. Following a network of well-established mountain trails and staying in Norway’s excellent mountain huts throughout, this is a superb hut-to-hut adventure for fit hillwalkers looking to experience the very best of Norwegian high-mountain trekking.

Is this holiday for you?

This is a demanding high-mountain trekking holiday in Norway, with significant ascent and descent on most days, particularly during the first half of the trip. The trails are generally well defined, but there are frequent sections of rocky and uneven terrain, including scree, bare rock, boulder fields and some easy scrambling, where good balance and confidence on rough ground are required.

Walking days are typically between 6 and 8 hours, with one or two longer days of up to around 9 hours. The holiday is best suited to regular hillwalkers with a good level of fitness who are comfortable with sustained days in mountainous terrain. Throughout the trip you will carry your own personal equipment between huts. As sleeping bags and camping mats are not required, it should be possible to keep your rucksack weight to around 10kg.

Why KE?

Designed by KE, this classic journey through Norway’s ‘Land of the Giants’ combines the iconic Besseggen Ridge with the ascent of Galdhopiggen, Norway’s highest mountain, in a superbly balanced hut-to-hut itinerary deep in the heart of Jotunheimen.

Itinerary

You should plan to arrive into Oslo, Gardermoen Airport by midday on this day. On arrival you will need to head to the airport train station and take the afternoon train to Otta, where you will be met by your Tour Leader. From Otta we transfer by minibus to Gjendesheim (995m) on the eastern edge of the Jotunheimen Mountains. We stay overnight at the Gjendesheim Hut.

Accommodation

Mountain Hut / Refuge

Meals

D

Today, we hike the Besseggen route, arguably Norway's most famous mountain walk, which follows a narrow ridge between the lakes of Bessvatn to the north and Gjende to the south. We can arrange to send our main luggage to Memurubu by boat to make the day's walk more enjoyable. During today's hike we will need to carry our waterproof clothing and a packed lunch. After breakfast at the hut, we start out in a northerly direction, climbing steeply on the path which leads to Glitterheim. After half an hour, however, we turn off towards Besseggen and begin a long climb to the broad, open top of Veslfjellet (1743m). Descending now, the ridge narrows and we walk alongside the blue water of Bessvatn to our right, whilst the green water (rich in glacial sediment) of Gjende lie some 400 metres below us to our left. The descent of Besseggen Ridge is a continuous scramble and will take about 40 minutes but the scrambe is relatively easy, on big steps. The ridge is reasonably wide so you are rarely near to the edge, which means that it should not feel overly exposed and is achievable for most confident walkers. The views as you descend from the ridge are spectacular and remain so for the whole day, as you are looking around from a lofty vantage point. We pass a small lake on a high plateau and then descend to our overnight stop at the lodge at Memurubu (1008m).

Accommodation

Mountain Hut / Refuge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

1120 M

Descent

1080 M

Time

7 - 8 hrs trekking

Distance

15 KM

Today is a superb high-mountain journey as we leave Memurubu behind and head deeper into the heart of the Jotunheimen. This is one of the longer and more demanding days of the trip, but it is highly rewarding and showcases classic Norwegian mountain scenery.

We begin with a steep ascent during the first hour, climbing above the Gjende valley before descending briefly to reach the shores of Russvatnet, a remote mountain lake. The route follows the lake for a time before a sustained climb from around 1200 metres to approximately 1700 metres through increasingly rocky terrain.

From the high point, the views open up dramatically, with fine panoramas of the Veotindan peaks and the unmistakable profile of Glittertind rising ahead. We then descend steadily into a broad open valley to reach the mountain hut at Glitterheim (1390m).

There are excellent views of the Memurutindane and Veotindane ranges, with glaciers spilling down from the higher summits above. As we descend towards the Visdalen valley, the gradient eases in places before becoming steeper again on the final approach to Spiterstulen, one of Norway's most famous mountain lodges.

Accommodation

Mountain Hut / Refuge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

1000 M

Descent

600 M

Time

8 hrs trekking

Distance

19 KM

Today's walk is shorter than the previous days, but it still presents a challenging mountain route, particularly due to the rocky terrain encountered along much of the way.

Leaving Glitterheim, we begin with a steady ascent across open ground before the route transitions into a long descent. Both the ascent and descent involve stony and uneven ground, requiring careful foot placement throughout the day.

There are excellent views of the Memurutindane and Veotindane ranges, with glaciers spilling down from the higher summits above. As we descend towards the Visdalen valley, the gradient eases in places before becoming steeper again on the final approach to Spiterstulen, one of Norway's most famous mountain lodges.

Accommodation

Mountain Hut / Refuge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

400 M

Descent

700 M

Time

6-7 hrs trekking

Distance

12 KM

Today we climb Galdhopiggen, Norway's highest mountain and a major highlight of the trip. Leaving Spiterstulen, we cross the Visdalen river before beginning our ascent on a well-marked mountain path.

The route climbs steadily through rocky terrain, becoming increasingly rugged as we gain height. While never technically difficult, this is a long and sustained ascent, requiring good fitness and stamina. As we gain height, there are expansive views across surrounding glaciers and high mountain plateaus.

At around 1800 metres the gradient eases slightly near the subsidiary summit of Svellnosi, before continuing onto the broad summit plateau of Galdhopiggen itself. On a clear day, the views stretch across much of southern Norway's highest mountain terrain.

After time to enjoy the summit, we descend by the same route back to Spiterstulen for a well-earned rest.

Accommodation

Mountain Hut / Refuge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

1400 M

Descent

1400 M

Time

8-9 hrs trekking

Distance

12 KM

After the previous demanding mountain days, today offers a change of pace as we walk through the spectacular Visdalen Valley, surrounded by some of Jotunheimen's most impressive peaks.

The route climbs gradually to a high point of around 1500 metres, with expansive views of surrounding mountains and glaciers. The walking is generally straightforward, allowing time to enjoy the open landscape and sense of remoteness that characterises this part of the range.

We finish the day at the beautifully situated Leirvassbu mountain lodge (1400m), set beside a mountain lake beneath dramatic high peaks.

Accommodation

Mountain Hut / Refuge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

500 M

Descent

100 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

16 KM

Today's walk is generally downhill all the way to Skogadalsboen, a very pleasant hut which is situated amongst the Jotunheimen's wildest peaks. The walk starts out beside a string of lakes and follows the refuge access road, before turning off on a marked trail through the Gravdalen Valley. Underfoot conditions will include dirt road, rocky trail and extensive snow patches.The surrounding peaks and valleys become increasingly green as we head towards the coast.The last part of today's walk is through pretty birch woodland.

Accommodation

Mountain Hut / Refuge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

300 M

Descent

900 M

Time

7 - 8 hrs trekking

Distance

20 KM

Our final, beautiful day's trek takes us southwards from the hut, climbing to a high point at around 1200m below Mount Friken (1503m). On this first part of the walk, there are superb views of some of Norway's most spectacular peaks, including those of the Hurrungane Mountains. We then begin a gradual descent into the stunning valley of Utladalen, passing mountain farms and summer cabins, and we get to see Vettisfossen, Norway's highest waterfall, with a vertical drop of 275m. On reaching the valley floor, save some energy for the 30 min climb up to the Avdalen refuge, above the Avdal waterfall.

Accommodation

Mountain Hut / Refuge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

920 M

Descent

1340 M

Time

7 - 8 hrs trekking

Distance

17 KM

We have an early breakfast at the refuge and then make the 1-hour walk (200m descent) out to the road, where we meet the bus which will take us back to the bus depo in Oslo. From the bus depot in Oslo, you will need to take the express shuttle train out to Gardermoen Airport. The train operates every 10 minutes and the journey takes 20 minutes. You should arrive at Oslo Gardermoen Airport in the mid afternoon.

Meals

B

Ascent

30 M

Descent

300 M

Time

1 hour trekking

Distance

3 KM
Download Trip Notes
The Route
Point Point
Peaks Peaks
Direction Direction
Trek
Transfer
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                            [title] => Trek the Besseggen Ridge Route, via Veslfjellet (1743m) to Memurubu (1008m).
                            [introduction] => 
                            [description] => Today, we hike the Besseggen route, arguably Norway's most famous mountain walk, which follows a narrow ridge between the lakes of Bessvatn to the north and Gjende to the south. We can arrange to send our main luggage to Memurubu by boat to make the day's walk more enjoyable. During today's hike we will need to carry our waterproof clothing and a packed lunch. After breakfast at the hut, we start out in a northerly direction, climbing steeply on the path which leads to Glitterheim. After half an hour, however, we turn off towards Besseggen and begin a long climb to the broad, open top of Veslfjellet (1743m). Descending now, the ridge narrows and we walk alongside the blue water of Bessvatn to our right, whilst the green water (rich in glacial sediment) of Gjende lie some 400 metres below us to our left. The descent of Besseggen Ridge is a continuous scramble and will take about 40 minutes but the scrambe is relatively easy, on big steps. The ridge is reasonably wide so you are rarely near to the edge, which means that it should not feel overly exposed and is achievable for most confident walkers. The views as you descend from the ridge are spectacular and remain so for the whole day, as you are looking around from a lofty vantage point. We pass a small lake on a high plateau and then descend to our overnight stop at the lodge at Memurubu (1008m).
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                            [title] => Trek through the Utadalen Valley to Avdalen. Optional walk above the Avdal Waterfall.
                            [introduction] => 
                            [description] => Our final, beautiful day's trek takes us southwards from the hut, climbing to a high point at around 1200m below Mount Friken (1503m). On this first part of the walk, there are superb views of some of Norway's most spectacular peaks, including those of the Hurrungane Mountains. We then begin a gradual descent into the stunning valley of Utladalen, passing mountain farms and summer cabins, and we get to see Vettisfossen, Norway's highest waterfall, with a vertical drop of 275m. On reaching the valley floor, save some energy for the 30 min climb up to the Avdalen refuge, above the Avdal waterfall.
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                            [title] => Departure day. Walk to road head. Bus back to Oslo.
                            [introduction] => 
                            [description] => We have an early breakfast at the refuge and then make the 1-hour walk (200m descent) out to the road, where we meet the bus which will take us back to the bus depo in Oslo. From the bus depot in Oslo, you will need to take the express shuttle train out to Gardermoen Airport. The train operates every 10 minutes and the journey takes 20 minutes. You should arrive at Oslo Gardermoen Airport in the mid afternoon.
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                            [title] => Meet at Otta Railway Station. A single timed transfer to Gjendesheim (995m) is provided.
                            [introduction] => 
                            [description] => You should plan to arrive into Oslo, Gardermoen Airport by midday on this day. On arrival you will need to head to the airport train station and take the afternoon train to Otta, where you will be met by your Tour Leader. From Otta we transfer by minibus to Gjendesheim (995m) on the eastern edge of the Jotunheimen Mountains. We stay overnight at the Gjendesheim Hut.
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                            [title] => Trek downhill to Skogadasboen.
                            [introduction] => 
                            [description] => Today's walk is generally downhill all the way to Skogadalsboen, a very pleasant hut which is situated amongst the Jotunheimen's wildest peaks. The walk starts out beside a string of lakes and follows the refuge access road, before turning off on a marked trail through the Gravdalen Valley. Underfoot conditions will include dirt road, rocky trail and extensive snow patches.The surrounding peaks and valleys become increasingly green as we head towards the coast.The last part of today's walk is through pretty birch woodland.
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                            [title] => Climb Galdhopiggen (2469m), the highest peak in Norway.
                            [introduction] => 
                            [description] => Today we climb Galdhopiggen, Norway's highest mountain and a major highlight of the trip. Leaving Spiterstulen, we cross the Visdalen river before beginning our ascent on a well-marked mountain path.

The route climbs steadily through rocky terrain, becoming increasingly rugged as we gain height. While never technically difficult, this is a long and sustained ascent, requiring good fitness and stamina. As we gain height, there are expansive views across surrounding glaciers and high mountain plateaus.

At around 1800 metres the gradient eases slightly near the subsidiary summit of Svellnosi, before continuing onto the broad summit plateau of Galdhopiggen itself. On a clear day, the views stretch across much of southern Norway's highest mountain terrain.

After time to enjoy the summit, we descend by the same route back to Spiterstulen for a well-earned rest.
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                            [title] => Trek through the Visdalen Valley to Leirvassbu (1400m).
                            [introduction] => 
                            [description] => After the previous demanding mountain days, today offers a change of pace as we walk through the spectacular Visdalen Valley, surrounded by some of Jotunheimen's most impressive peaks.

The route climbs gradually to a high point of around 1500 metres, with expansive views of surrounding mountains and glaciers. The walking is generally straightforward, allowing time to enjoy the open landscape and sense of remoteness that characterises this part of the range.

We finish the day at the beautifully situated Leirvassbu mountain lodge (1400m), set beside a mountain lake beneath dramatic high peaks.
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                            [title] => Trek from Memurubu to Glitterheim (1390m).
                            [introduction] => 
                            [description] => Today is a superb high-mountain journey as we leave Memurubu behind and head deeper into the heart of the Jotunheimen. This is one of the longer and more demanding days of the trip, but it is highly rewarding and showcases classic Norwegian mountain scenery.

We begin with a steep ascent during the first hour, climbing above the Gjende valley before descending briefly to reach the shores of Russvatnet, a remote mountain lake. The route follows the lake for a time before a sustained climb from around 1200 metres to approximately 1700 metres through increasingly rocky terrain.

From the high point, the views open up dramatically, with fine panoramas of the Veotindan peaks and the unmistakable profile of Glittertind rising ahead. We then descend steadily into a broad open valley to reach the mountain hut at Glitterheim (1390m).


There are excellent views of the Memurutindane and Veotindane ranges, with glaciers spilling down from the higher summits above. As we descend towards the Visdalen valley, the gradient eases in places before becoming steeper again on the final approach to Spiterstulen, one of Norway's most famous mountain lodges.
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                            [title] => Trek from Glitterheim to Spiterstulen (1100m).
                            [introduction] => 
                            [description] => Today's walk is shorter than the previous days, but it still presents a challenging mountain route, particularly due to the rocky terrain encountered along much of the way.

Leaving Glitterheim, we begin with a steady ascent across open ground before the route transitions into a long descent. Both the ascent and descent involve stony and uneven ground, requiring careful foot placement throughout the day.

There are excellent views of the Memurutindane and Veotindane ranges, with glaciers spilling down from the higher summits above. As we descend towards the Visdalen valley, the gradient eases in places before becoming steeper again on the final approach to Spiterstulen, one of Norway's most famous mountain lodges.
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Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

  • A professional and qualified tour leader/mountain guide

  • Private transfer from Otta to Gjendesheim on arrival

  • Transfer to Oslo city bus depo on departure

  • 8 nights mountain refuge accommodation

  • Meals as per the Meal Plan

  • All specialist glacier equipment including ropes harnesses and crampons

  • Travel insurance
  • Train from Oslo airport to Otta on arrival
  • Train from Oslo city bus depo to Oslo airport on departure
  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc.

The group will meet at Otta Railway Station. A single timed transfer from the station to the Gjendesheim Hut will be provided.

Contact details and an emergency number will be provided with your booking confirmation.

To get to Otta from Oslo Gardermoen Airport you can take a train departing at 1429 from the airport railway station (Oslo Lufthaven), which is just a 5 minute walk from Arrivals. Train tickets must be bought in advance from the Norwegian railway website (www.vy.no), which is available in English. You only need to buy a one-way ticket. The cost should be around 300-500 NOK (approx £35), depending on when you book your ticket. Tickets only go on sale 3 - 4 months prior to travel. Once you have booked your ticket you only need the booking code/confirmation number to board the train. The train goes in the direction of Trondheim. Otta is about half way between Oslo Gardermoen Airport and Trondheim and the journey takes just over 3hrs.

If you are taking the train from downtown Oslo rather that the airport, the train leaves approx 40 mins earlier than the airport train.

On the last day of the holiday, the group will catch the 0930 bus from Ovre Ardal to Oslo, which arrives in Oslo downtown at 1455. From here, you will need to take the 20min express train to Oslo, Gardermoen Airport. These tickets do not need to be booked in advance. The trains operate every 10mins so you will be able to be at Oslo airport at around 1530. The cost of the train is around 170 NOK.

All meals are provided from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on day 9.

Whilst we can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, we cannot always provide for special diets.  Due to the nature of some of the trips that we operate and the countries in which we operate them, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you may have to supplement your meals with food/snacks from home.  If you have specific dietary requirements please do speak to our sales team and they will be able to advise you whether or not we will be able to offer your specific choice.  Please note that we are unable to provide separate menus and cannot accept liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements or intolerances.

Water from the taps may not be drinkable in all locations on this trip - please check with your guide. We recommend taking water purification tablets and a reusable bottle with a filter such as Water-to-Go, which can both be used to help make safe other water sources. Please note that we do not encourage the purchase of single use plastic bottles.

Breakfasts are buffet style. They have an array of different foods including eggs, bread, cheeses, meat selection, fruit etc. At breakfast you will make up your packed lunch from the buffet. Lunch bags or paper to wrap sandwiches in are provided for the packed lunches, though we recommend bringing your own reusable lunch bag or container. Evening meals are also provided at our accommodation. These are 3-course dinners. Usually starting with a soup and then a big health meal course followed by dessert. Beer and wine is available at each of the refuges - at considerable cost. Beer is typically £6 for a small bottle.

We spend 8 nights in mountain refuges. Some operated by the Norwegian Tourist Board (DNT) and some privately run.

The Norwegians know how to do mountain refuges; these are certainly not basic establishments. They are fully staffed and serviced mountain lodges, providing dormitory accommodation, restaurant facilities, bar, lounge, drying rooms and showers.

The dormitories are usually 4 berth, however it is possible that we will have to use 8 bed rooms at busy times. There are usually separate female and male dormitories; however, we cannot always guarantee this. Bedding is provided, but you should carry a cotton or silk sheet sleeping bag. Single accommodation is not available.

The group will be led by a professional and qualified tour leader/mountain guide.

The altitudes on this holiday are not extreme and the maximum altitude attained is no more than the equivalent of a pressurised cabin on an international flight. You may ‘feel’ the altitude the first time you trek above 2,000 metres but all that is required is a slower pace to compensate. You should pay particular attention to your hydration levels while trekking above 2,000 metres.

£100 (or equivalent in US dollars, Euros etc) should be sufficient to cover miscellaneous expenses, including bar bills and snack items, chocolate bars etc. This will also allow you to pay reasonable tips to the local guide. Credit/debit cards (VISA and Mastercard) are now the preferred form of payment at all Norwegian huts. If you prefer to travel with cash we recommend that you carry your travel money in the form of local currency (Norwegian Kroner) as there will not be any opportunity to change money once we leave Oslo Airport. If you are intending to buy expensive souvenirs, you should budget accordingly (credit cards can be useful in this respect).

Tipping is the accepted way of saying ‘thank you’ to your leader and local team. Tipping is entirely voluntary and should be dependent on good service. We advise you to tip as a group.

Since you will be carrying all your personal equipment for all but 3 days of the trek, you should make every effort to keep the weight of your gear to a minimum. There are drying rooms at all of the mountain refuges, with a sink for hand-washing clothes when necessary. We recommend that you have a trial walk with your pack. With careful planning (and considering that you will not have to carry a sleeping bag or a camping mattress) it should be possible to keep the weight of your equipment down to between 8 and 10 kgs. We suggest that you also take a small bag/dry bag into which you can decant additional items you do not need on the the Besseggen Ridge walk (Day 2), this bag will be sent to the Memurubu Refuge by boat meaning that you can walk with a lighter pack. For the two days walking from the Spiterstulen Hut you can leave excess equipment at the hut allowing you to again carry a relatively empty pack. 

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in the ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

Europe

Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:

  • less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)

  • valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

For the latest details on visiting countries within the EU or the European Economic Area (EEA), please check the UK Government website

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders.

A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

For other nationalities, please refer to your own Government website for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents including vaccinations and health certificates (see Health & Vaccinations below), and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check the FCDO for the latest advice for each country visited before travel.

Vaccinations:

You should be up to date with the routine vaccinations recommended in the UK for overseas travel.

You must also contact your doctor or travel clinic to check if there are specific vaccinations or other preventive measures that you need for the area you are visiting, in good time before you are due to depart.

On holidays to more remote areas you should also have a dental check-up.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents including vaccinations and health certificates.

Please check the FCDO and Travel Health Pro. For all of your intended destinations for up-to-date advice.

Severe Allergies:

If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips.

The unit of currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone.

Getting some additional exercise before coming on an active holiday makes a lot of sense. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience.

You should be aerobically fit and comfortable with walking 8 to 9 hours for consecutive days. Hill walking, with a good amount of ascent and descent, is the best training, and we would suggest that you try to fit in a number of long weekend walks before you depart. Running, cycling and swimming are also good for developing cardio vascular fitness and stamina. 

Despite its northerly location, the climate of central Norway is moderated by the Gulf Stream and is surprisingly mild. From June to early September, we can expect daytime temperatures of between 10°C / 50°F and 20°C / 68°F, depending on the altitude. At this season, night-time temperatures will fall to 5°C / 41°F at our highest overnight refuges. Sunny weather can be expected. However, the proximity of Norway's long Atlantic coastline means that the weather is unpredictable and you need to be prepared for some rain. Daylight hours are long, especially in July, when the summer sun is never far below the horizon.

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that before travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe.  Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation.  We receive regular updates directly from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground.  If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

  • Walking in Norway. Connie Roos.

  • Cicerone Press: 20 walking and trekking routes in the main mountain areas. The book has detailed route descriptions, and fact panels provide information on level of difficulty, base, maps etc.Summary tables, maps and route profiles illustrate the routes.

  • Norway. Lonely Planet.

Turkart Topographic Hiking Maps 1:50,000. Ugland IT Group (previously Statens Kartverk)

Maps at a good scale for walkers. Contours at 20m intervals. Shows footpaths, mountain huts etc. The maps have a UTM grid and margin ticks giving latitude and longitude. The map legend includes English. Additional tourist information is given on the reverse. To follow the route you will need two sheets: 2503 Jotunheimen Aust and 2505 Jotunheimen Vest

Make this KE Adventure holiday your own!
  • Do our normal group departure dates not fit? 

  • Would you prefer to travel with just friends and/or family? 

  • Are you looking to organise a trip for your local walking, biking or mountaineering club?

It's really easy to make a trip your own. Simply select from our full range of adventure holidays and choose the dates that work for you and your group. 

We are experts in creating holidays for groups of friends, families, charities and clubs.  Our personal service means you’ll be fully involved as we make the arrangements for your perfect adventure holiday.

Independence with Security

Travelling as a KE Private Group allows you more flexibility and choice, but still with the peace of mind that everything is pre-planned and arranged for your group by a reputable adventure travel company.

To take your first step to an amazing adventure with your friends and family complete the private group enquiry form, or call our Sales Experts on: 017687 73966

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation.  When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct.  Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

Equipment List

Please try to keep the weight of your baggage to a minimum. See the ‘baggage allowance’ section for further details.

On this trip you will be carrying everything you need. Considering that you do not need to carry either a sleeping bag or a camping mattress, it should be possible to keep the weight of your pack to around 10kg. 

As this holiday involves a long transfer to get to the start, we would advise bringing crucial items, such as boots and waterproofs, on to the plane as hand-luggage.

You must bring the following items:

  • Rucksack approx 40 - 50 litres capacity

  • Walking/hiking boots (which are comfortable, waterproof, warm and sufficiently rigid to take a strap-on walking crampon on the glacier day)

  • Trekking poles (x2)

  • Gaiters

  • Trainers / sandals to wear in the huts

  • Socks

  • Walking socks (2 or 3 pairs)

  • Spare laces

  • Trekking trousers

  • Lightweight waterproof overtrousers

  • Underwear

  • Shorts

  • Thermal baselayer shirts (1 short sleeve, 1 long sleeve)

  • Baselayer - thermal leggings

  • T-shirts and/or casual shirts

  • Fleece jacket or warm jumper

  • Lightweight waterproof jacket

  • Warm hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Lightweight thermal gloves

  • Warmer gloves or mittens

  • Washbag and toiletries

  • Basic First Aid Kit including: Antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhoea treatment (Imodium), painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, Insect repellent (DEET), and re-hydration salts (Dioralite). Glucose tablets and multi-vitamin tablets are also a good idea.

  • Water bottles 1 litre (x2) (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)

  • Water purification tablets

  • Antibacterial hand wash

  • Small towel

  • Sheet sleeping bag

  • Sun protection (including for lips)

  • Tupperware box (for packed lunches)

The following items are optional:

  • Swimwear

  • Dry bag (see Baggage Allowance section)

  • Earplugs (Especially if you are not the one snoring)

  • Head torch

  • Camera

  • Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

  • Pen-knife (must be packed in hold baggage during flights)

  • Small thermos flask (0.5 litre) – can be filled with hot drinks at the huts

Note:

  • Every hut has a drying room and sink for hand-washing items, so you may want to bring a small tub of washing powder. At a minimum, you will need one set of walking clothes and a separate set of clothes for the hut.

DATES & PRICES

Private Departure?

Gather a few friends, family or club and take over your own departure.

2026

Dates

Adults from

Deposit

Status

More Information

  • The Jotunheimen of Norway - Private Reffell
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: NORZ/01/26/
  • This trip begins on Sun 5 Jul and ends on Mon 13 Jul
  • Sold Out! Call us to discuss different dates or alternative itineraries
  • Download Trip Notes

Land Only Information

Please refer to the 'Joining Arrangements & Transfers' within Holiday Information for further details.

Flights and other transport to your destination should not be booked until you have received your booking confirmation and the departure is showing 'Guaranteed to Run' or 'Limited'.

The LAND ONLY dates and prices are for the itinerary joining in Otta. Oslo, Gardermoen Airport is the most convenient for Otta. On arrival you will need to head to the airport train station and take the afternoon train to Otta. A single timed transfer from Otta Station to Gjendesheim is included. The holiday ends in Oslo. From where you will need to take the express shuttle train back to Gardermoen Airport.


BOOK WITH KE CONFIDENCE - No surcharge guarantee

The price of our holidays can change depending on a variety of factors but unlike some other tour operators, KE have undertaken to guarantee the Land Only price of your holiday will not change after you have booked. The price when you book is the price you will pay, whether you are booking for this year or the next. Book early to avoid any tour price increases, get the best flight prices and take advantage of our 'No Surcharge Guarantee'.

KE Adventure is a fully bonded tour operator. We hold an ATOL license (No: 2808) and are bonded with ABTA (Membership No: W4341)

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