Alpine skiing
Want to get on the slopes early this year? How about the end of October? Gaustablikk, by Rjukan, is the first resort in Norway to open. Hence it often attracts national squads from Alpine countries for training.
On the slopes there are 20 pistes – six green, nine red and five black plus children’s activities and evening club.
As well as great confidence building pistes for beginners, there are plenty more serious challenges for the expert, including the off-piste Mt Gausta at 1,883 metres, the highest in southern Norway.
A funicular deep inside the mountain will take you to the summit for the most spectacular views imaginable – you can see one sixth of Norway!
On the way down you have a choice of descents from red to triple black! Phew!
It is worth checking out the Gaustablikk High Mountain Hotel if you fancy staying in a cosy luxurious wooden cabin.
Ice climbing
In recent years Rjukan has become Northern Europe's number one place for ice climbers from all over the world. Over 170 icy waterfalls in an especially long and stable winter season provide excellent conditions for climbers.
There is climbable ice in the Rjukan area from the end of October through to early April. However, the best and most reliable time to visit is mid-January to mid-March. At this time, there are more daylight hours and ice will be in abundance. There is an annual ice climbing festival in Rjukan in February.
Ski sailing/snowkiting
If you fancy trying ski sailing/snowkiting, Rjukan is the place for you. Reach speeds of up to 100 miles per hour on Hardangervidda. Hardangervidda is rated as one of the top snowkiting places in the world. Courses are being arranged here almost every weekend during the winter season.
Sledge rides
Snuggle deep down under warm sheepskin rugs and allow the horse to draw you through the forest winter wonderland. Sledge rides in horse-drawn sledges are available in the mountain villages and districts.
Gaustablikk useful information
GETTING THERE
London – Oslo two hour flight; transfer 3 hours 30 minutes by train and bus, or three hours by rental car (2 hours 30 minutes from Oslo Torp).
TOUR OPERATORS
Kelso Travel
0845 2300 0885
RESORT INFORMATION
00 47 35 09 14 22