Follow the path to good local food

The focus on locally produced food with Norwegian ingredients and local identity is increasing. Local fish, meat, cheese, fruits and vegetables are served in both the finest hotels and simpler mountain huts throughout Norway. Regional specialities tempt visitors (hikers among them), many of whom show an interest in local traditions and recipes. On several farms and lodges, it is even possible to attend traditional Norwegian food cooking courses.

Cheese, fish and meat

A hearty breakfast will set you in good stead for a day hiking in the Norwegian mountains. Choose from different types of cheese and ham made by local farmers, while helping yourself to home-baked bread. For dinner you may be served fish that has been caught in the water just outside the cabin, meat from wild animals in the area such as elk, deer and reindeer, or from animals that have been grazing in the valley. Indeed if you love fish, you should try at least one of Norway’s numerous and tasty fish soups during your stay.

Something sweet

Most lodges serve waffles with cream and jam around lunchtime. Waffles smell delicious and tastes even better. Rømmegrøt, a velvety and heavy porridge made from natural sour cream, usually served with cured meats and flatbread, is a typically Norwegian speciality. For more inspiration, see our list of food and drink you should try whilst in Norway.

The Norwegian lunch box

Many Norwegian hotels and lodges offer their guests the opportunity to prepare packed lunches (matpakke) before they set off on a hike. Packed lunches are typically Norwegian. For generations, Norwegians have prepared packed lunches, to take to work or school, but also when going hiking. Come lunchtime the packed lunch, a thermos with tea or coffee and perhaps a piece of chocolate are all consumed with great pleasure. The highlight of a hike for many Norwegians is indeed that moment when they sit down to eat sandwiches with brunost (brown cheese) and enjoy the view – whether it is sweeping plains, the dense forests, high peaks or the vast ocean.