Fjallraven Hiking in Norway – South

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Guidebook describing 10 short treks in southern Norway, plus a handful of variants. The hut-to-hut routes, of 3 to 8 days, cover Jotunheimen, Rondane, Dovrefjell, Trollheimen and Ryfylke, and an ascent of Galdhopiggen, Norway’s highest peak at 2469m, is included. Suitable for competent hikers with experience of navigation and mountain weather. 

Cicerone says: 

This guide describes 10 shorter hut-to-hut treks showcasing southern Norway’s wild natural beauty, with highlights including Galdhøpiggen – Norway’s highest peak at 2469m – and the iconic Pulpit Rock and Kjeragbolten on the Lysefjord. The routes range from 3 to 8 days (although many can be adapted or combined to create longer or shorter routes) and cover Jotunheimen, Rondane, Dovrefjell, Trollheimen and Ryfylke. They are suitable for experienced hikers with a good level of fitness and can be walked from mid-July to the end of September.

Clear route description and mapping are provided for each hike. Stages are graded according to difficulty: although all of the routes follow waymarked trails, some cross remote and challenging terrain which may include exposed sections calling for a sure foot and a good head for heights. However, in many instances, alternatives are provided avoiding the most demanding sections. The guide also offers comprehensive advice on public transport access and accommodation options, and background notes on each of the featured mountain regions.

From narrow ridges to wide glacial valleys and from shimmering fjords to striking alpine peaks, Norway is home to many awe-inspiring landscapes. Throw in the warmth and hospitality of the Norwegian Trekking Association’s extensive hut network and you have all the ingredients of a fantastic adventure. This guide is an ideal companion to discovering some of Norway’s classic shorter hikes and best-loved mountain landscapes.

Our Verdict

For nearly 50 years Cicerone have been producing guidebooks on recognised treks, regions, areas and general tips for hikers.

We have used them countless times and they’ve always provided excellent insight and knowledge that you only get through experience, giving you the edge to make your trip a success and more enjoyable too.

If you’re a gram counter you can easily remove sections of the book to take with you making your own ultra-lightweight guidebook with only the essential sections that you require.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• Seasons: The hiking season in mid-Norway runs from mid-July to the end of September (from early July in the Lysefjord area). Snow cover is likely outside of this season.
• Centres: Stavanger, Otta, Hjerkinn, Kongsvoll and Oppdal are the key bases
• Difficulty: The graded hikes require a good level of fitness, some experience of mountain hiking, the occasional head for heights and good waterproof hiking gear.
• Must See: Norway’s highest peaks, Galdhøpiggen and Glittertinden, in Jotunheimen’s wild glacial landscapes; the harsh beauty of Snøhetta and Dovrefjell; Rondane’s rugged moonscapes; the shimmering Lysefjord; world-famous ‘vertigo hikes’ including the Besseggen ridge and Kjeragbolten; the 4444-step staircase at Flørli; Trollheimen’s lush valleys and unforgiving peaks; the unrivalled hospitality of Norway’s mountain huts

Specifications

• Weight: 321g
• Edition: Second
• Number of pages: 296
• Size: 17.2 x 11.6 x 1.7cm
• Published: 27 Jan 2021
• Author: Ute Koninx

Contents

Contents
Introduction
Norway – a hiker’s paradise
Geography and geology
Heritage and outdoor culture
Climate and when to go
Getting to Norway
Getting around Norway
Hiking in Norway
Waymarking and access
Maps and navigation
Accommodation
Equipment
Water, food and supplies
Money
Language
Phones and Wi-Fi
Safety
Emergencies
Using this guide
Jotunheimen
Route 1 Jotunheimen Besseggen route
Route 2 Jotunheimen classic route
Route 3 Jotunheimen traverse route
Rondane
Route 4 Rondane summits
Route 5 Rondane traverse route
Dovrefjell
Route 6 Dovrefjell traverse route
Trollheimen
Route 7 Trollheimen Trekanten triangle route
Route 8 Trollheimen SignaTur route
Route 9 Trollheimen fells to fjord route
Ryfylke
Route 10 Lysefjord circuit

Appendix A Overview of routes and daily stages
Appendix B Table of mountain huts and key services provided
Appendix C Useful websites and transport schedules
Appendix D Norwegian berries