Explore Norwegian nature
There are so many fun ways to enjoy the great outdoors.
Magical Norwegian lakes
Norway is best known for its long coastline, but there are also around 450,000 registered lakes of all shapes and sizes scattered across the country!
The lakes are often warmer than the sea, especially after several days of sunshine. Here are some of the most beautiful ones that are well worth the journey:
1. Lakes with beaches
Did you know that a lot of Norwegian lakes have stunning, sandy beaches?
Check out the oh-la-la Stykkjevika beach at the northern end of Lake Fyresvatn in Telemark. It's one of Norway's deepest lakes and is also great for fishing trout, char, and whitefish!
2. Glacial lakes
Wow! Where do these intense green and turquoise colours come from?
Many Norwegian lakes get their distinctive colour from glacial meltwater flowing down from the surrounding mountaintops.
Check out the pristine Lovatnet lake, located in Stryn in Nordfjord, where you can cruise on the MS Kjenndal II during the summer months.
Note that there are several areas along the lake where camping is prohibited.
Meltwater from glaciers also means you'll need to be fairly brave if you fancy a dip in the cold water. But don't worry – the lakes still make for great hiking destinations!
The hike to the intensely blue Blåisvatnet lake on the Lyngen Peninsula in Northern Norway is quite easy, mostly flat, and takes around three hours both ways.
Take in the stunning view of the Lenangsbreen glacier towering above.
3. Lake activities
The lakes are, of course, the perfect playground for all kinds of water sports.
Rent a kayak, canoe, or SUP and paddle into a real-life postcard – like here at beautiful Oppstrynsvatnet lake in Stryn...
...or row the tranquil waters of a deep valley lake, like the Innerdalsvatnet lake in the Northwest.
4. Instagram-friendly lakes
Although all of our lakes are very Insta-friendly, some are more so than others.
Bondhusvatnet lake is famous amongst Norwegians, and is one of the most popular and easy hikes in the Hardanger region. A small gravel road leads up to the lake, and the return trip takes around two hours at a regular walking pace.
The trail is fairly accessible for wheelchair users, though it’s recommended to use a chair with a powerful motor, as the path has a slight incline.
Note: This lake is a source of drinking water and swimming is therefore prohibited.
5. Mountain lakes
And don't forget the thousands of mountain lakes in all shapes and sizes.
The vibrant Gjendevatnet lake is surrounded by towering mountaintops, that rise over 2,000 metres in the famous Jotunheimen National Park. The Norwegian Trekking Association's oldest cabin, Gjendebu, sits right next to Gjendevatnet. Spend the night in this peaceful cabin, before hopping aboard Gjendebåten for a scenic boat ride on the lake.
You can also see the lake from above on the popular Besseggen hike.
Keep in mind that this is a demanding hike that takes about 7-8 hours to complete.
6. Norway's largest lake
Located in the Innlandet region, no lake in Norway is bigger than Mjøsa. Several major towns, including Hamar, Gjøvik, and Lillehammer, are dotted along its shores, together with plenty of quaint villages. If you're feeling fit, you can cycle the entire 299 km around the lake.
Enjoy some rest and relaxation right by the lake at one of the many popular camp sites, or in one of the luxurious farm houses on the idyllic Helgøya peninsula.
Mjøsa is also an inland sea, and you can experience it onboard the historic steam boat the DS Skibladner, which dates back to 1856. It's the oldest steamship in the world that remains in regular operation.
There are also several other lakes where you can sail on charming historic ships.
7. Fishing lakes
If you want to find your own lake or enjoy the peace and quiet of true wilderness, head to the lakes in eastern Norway.
Lake Femunden is one of the biggest lakes in the area, and nearby Femundsmarka National Park, located in the Innlandet region right by the Swedish border, is also a great place to visit.
Femunden is also a favourite among fishermen (remember to buy a fishing licence!). Rent a boat and try your luck!
Once you're back on land, you can hike along one of the many woodland trails and rest in one of the many cosy cabins in the area.
8. Luxury by the lake
If you're after a bit more comfort and style, Norwegian lakes have got you covered!
Visit the relaxing Rømskog Spa & Resort for a blissful getaway by the secluded lake Vortungen, just outside Oslo.
Enjoy floating saunas on the lake, indoor and outdoor pools, and a great view of the lake from the restaurant.
If you prefer a bit more activity, the resort offers kayaks, SUP boards, pedal boats, and more.
9. Fjord-like lakes
Many of our lakes look like the famous fjords, including Ringedalsvatnet, below the famous Trolltunga hike (only for the toughest!).
Some lakes even have 'fjord' in their name (just to make things a bit more confusing), including Randsfjorden lake, in the Hadeland region, a 1.5-hour drive northwest of Oslo.
It's great for fishing, kayaking, and calmer adventures. If you're lucky, you can reel in trout that weighs up to 11 kilograms!
This is also the perfect lakeside escape for cultural lovers.
Head to Jevnaker at the southern end of the lake, where you can visit the unique Kistefos Museum and see world-class art, a huge outdoor sculpture park, and its impressive building, called The Twist.
You should also visit nearby Hadeland Glassverk, where you can see glassblowers in action and check out fun niche shops and cafés.
10. Mysterious lakes
Our lakes have also inspired tales and adventures for centuries, and continue to do so!
This is especially true of Lake Bandak in Telemark, where you can combine adventurous hikes through lovely landscapes with a luxurious stay at the fairytale-like Dalen Hotel, followed by a rejuvenating visit to the Soria Moria Sauna.
Arrive in style aboard a historical canal boat on the wonderful Telemark Canal!
Remember that the lakes are beautiful all year round, especially in autumn.
What are you waiting for?
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