Skibladner - the world's oldest paddle steamer

Skibladner is still in regular service, an experience not to missed.  Norway's largest lake, Mjøsa, is definitely at its most scenic from the deck of Mjøsa's white swan, built in 1856.  Since then she has faithfully transported passengers, post and cargo between the villages and towns around Lake Mjøsa: Lillehammer, Moelv, Gjøvik, Hamar and Eidsvoll.

Go hiking

The Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) recommends a number of excellent marked trails in the varied wilderness of Nordseter, Sjusjøen and Øyerfjellet.

Nordseter is an excellent starting point for those who wish to take trips high up into the mountains. One very popular destination is Nevelfjell Mountain (1,089 metres above sea level). From the top of this mountain, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Jotunheimen and Rondane mountain ranges. The hike up Neverfjell is easily done in a day, summer as well as winter (then with skis of course). 

From Sjusjøen, you can walk to Lunkefjell Mountain or Sjusjøfjell Mountain. The walk around Lake Sjusjøvannet, or to the Fjellelva River, is an excellent alternative if you want to avoid climbing. 

Fåberg Cultural Trail takes you through a 6,000 year old cultural landscape. The four-kilometre long trail starts at Fåberg Church. Pilgrims who travelled from Hamar to Trondheim walked along both the western and eastern shores of Lake Mjøsa, and through the Gudbrandsdalen Valley.

Lillehammer Olympic Park is also a good starting point for walks through beautiful scenery, and there is an excellent trail along the Mesnaelva River, not far from Lillehammer town centre.

Get on your bike

The Lillehammer area has a good network of roads, with open and mountainous terrain that makes for great cycling. You can hire mountain bikes at Nordseter, Sjusjøen and Hafjell. 

Horse riding

Experience the mountains from the back of a horse. Kind and gentle horses take you on a memorable trip with a local guide. This is an unforgettable experience through beautiful nature. You ride in varied terrain through mountain and forest scenery. Riding experience not necessary, but an advantage.

Try wheelbobsleighing at Lillehammer Olympic Park

With room for up to four passengers per trip (in addition to an authorised pilot), you risk speeding down the track at speeds around 100 kilometres per hour. For groups, the Olympic Park can offer activity packages featuring a wide range of activities.