Experience Fjellstuer
Traditional Norwegian mountain lodges

Relax by the fireplace, in cosy, traditional surroundings ...

… just like many travellers before you.

For hundreds of years, Norwegian Fjellstuer (mountain lodges), have been a safe haven, offering food and greatly appreciated shelter to those who venture into the majestic mountains.

The tradition lives on today!

You'll find lodges by old mountain passes, and near railway lines and roads.

Are you ready for a true mountain adventure?

Join us for a delicious hot meal with authentic mountain flavours.

When you're full, enjoy a good night's sleep.

Wake up to friendly faces and fun activities in the crisp mountain air.

Meet the welcoming mountain people!

"Hosting travellers is a family tradition that's been passed on for 13 generations…"

"… here at Hjerkinn Fjellstue."

"Even our dog, Fluffy, was a wanderer. He showed up here in the mountains all alone one day and has been with us ever since."

Martin Hjerkind, owner of Hjerkinn Fjellstue

Fjellstuer – Norwegian mountain lodges

A fjellstue is a small mountain lodge, typically with a more basic standard than hotels, although you can now also find modern, high-end lodges, too.

The lodges were originally established to ensure the safety and welfare of pilgrims, government officials, and other travellers crossing the mountains.

Taste delicious local food and enjoy fun activities for the whole family! Visit a Norwegian Fjellstue.

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A family business

Hjerkinn Fjellstue and Horse riding is beautifully located in the middle of Norway, in the Dovrefjell mountains, just a four-minute drive from Hjerkinn train station and the main road between Oslo and Trondheim.

The mountain lodge has been in the Hjerkind family since 1640, and is an important part of the Norwegian fjellstue tradition.

“Hjerkinn has actually been passed down for 13 generations. At least, that's how far back we can document it. It may have been in my family since the 9th century, but we can't know for sure. Today, it's managed by my mother, my sister, and my wife and I, so it's a real family business,” explains Martin Hjerkind.

Hjerkinn, and several other mountain lodges in the area, were established by the Norwegian king Øystein Magnusson (1088-1123) to provide lodging for travellers who were crossing the mountains. Back then, mountain lodges were obliged to house any traveller who needed shelter.

“Although the government owned the mountain lodges, back then the farmers in the surrounding areas also had to provide support by offering materials, food, and labour. In 1927, Hjerkinn became private property, and its ownership was transferred to my family,” says Martin.

In many ways, you might say that mountain lodges were the beginning of the hotel business in Norway.

Mountain adventures

As their name indicates, mountain lodges are mainly located in mountainous regions, particularly in the southern part of Norway where east and west connect, and where the Oslo Region borders Trøndelag county.

Most lodges are easily accessible by car, and some can even be reached by bus and train.

Don't miss the many fun activities you can try in the mountains while exploring the old traditions! Lodges are often located right beside epic skiing and hiking trails, and other outdoor adventures.

Many mountain lodges also offer a wide range of guided tours and exciting activities for the whole family.

“At Hjerkinn, we have had Icelandic horses for 30 years, and offer horseback riding in the mountains for both beginners and experienced riders,” explains Martin Hjerkind, adding that bikes are also available to rent.

"Icelandic horses are perfect for touring the mountains. They have a special gait called tølt, which makes the ride more comfortable and less bumpy."

Martin

Looking for a unique experience?

Dovrefjell mountain is home to musk oxen.

Join a guided tour on horseback, or a guided hike with a local guide.

The 'kingdom of the musk oxen' is also home to another mountain lodge: Kongsvold Fjeldstue, which has its own train station — Kongsvoll.

The station is a stop on The Dovre Railway line, which runs between Oslo and Trondheim.

The famous and unique mountain lodge is just a five-minute walk from the train station, beside the main road connecting the north and the south of the country.

Mountain luxury

Kongsvold Fjeldstue is a well-maintained mountain lodge with traditions dating back to the 1100s.

If you're looking for modern comfort in historical environments, this is the place to visit.

“We have many antiques from the Gudbrandsdalen area as well as Trøndelag region, here at Kongsvold. Visiting us is like taking a walk through history,” says manager Sofie Kvaale.

The mountain lodge was for many years owned by a family from Lesja, a small mountain village. It was later bequeathed to the government and has been restored by the Directorate of Cultural Heritage in cooperation with local builders.

“This is a popular place who those who are walking the pilgrim trail, the St. Olavs Way, which takes you over the Dovrefjell mountain to Trondheim,” Sofie explains.

"Pilgrims can stay in our Pilgrim House at a reasonable rate."

Sofie Kvaale, manager of Kongsvold Fjeldstue

Kongsvold is the perfect place for those who want kos with a touch of rural luxury.

"We call this 'the pink room', of course. Guests often bring a book and enjoy a cup of coffee here."

"We don't have any TVs, but you don't need them! Mountain lodges are a place for relaxation, where everyone can enjoy the peace and quiet, and end the day with a tasty meal."

Sofie

You can indulge in a three-course meal at Kongsvold Fjeldstue's restaurant, or have a more budged-friendly, traditional meal or snack at its kro (café).

Kro

A kro is a small diner or café, often located beside a road.

The menu typically consists of home-cooked, traditional dishes, and can be a budget friendly alternative while travelling.

Visit a Norwegian kro!

Mountain flavours

“We want you to feel welcome at Kongsvold, whether you're looking for an exclusive culinary experience, or just want a quick snack at our Kro. We have something for everyone. That's what mountain lodges are all about. They should be cosy and inviting,” says Sofie.

Many mountain lodges have specialised in preparing tasty meals from locally sourced ingredients, making a visit to the mountains a delicious gastronomic experience.

Fresh fish from rivers and lakes, natural ingredients from the wilderness, and beer and cider with a local twist … You're in for a treat!

Check out these mountain lodges for an extra tasty experience:

Rømmegrøt and Norwegian waffles

Mountain lodges also serve more simple, traditional, Norwegian food.

Try rømmegrøt (sour cream porridge), sweet vafler (Norwegian waffles) with sweet brown cheese or home-made kjøttkaker (meat cakes). Perfect for filling up before a hike in the mountains, or as a treat afterwards …

And remember: You don't have to stay at a lodge to dine there. Norwegians also love to stop by and eat at mountain lodges when they are on the road or out hiking.

The Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) also runs several Norwegian mountain lodges, where you can easily combine hiking with a tasty meal and a comfortable bed in budget friendly dormitories or private rooms.

In DNT's many staffed lodges all over the country, you can get a hot meal while enjoying the nature. Many of these lodges has a big focus on local ingredients, with a taste of the mountains.

Looking for a more private mountain adventure? Rent a cottage or cabin and stay together with good friends and family!

Find a mountain lodge

... or check out one of the Norwegian høyfjellshotellene: Mountain hotels.

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