Rjukan

We had hoped to fit in one last big hike before catching the ferry from Oslo to Copenhagen. So we headed to the town of Rjukan and Gaustatoppen. On the way, we drove along Peer Gyntvegen (yet another summer-only mountain road) and made a stop at the beautiful stave church in Ringebu.

We went skiing in Gausta last winter, and during that trip we took the Gaustabanen funicular up to Gaustatoppen, 1,883 metres above sea level. Ever since, we’d dreamt of hiking the 4–5 km up to the summit to see it all in summer colours. On a clear day, you can see one-sixth of the whole of Norway from the top.

Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t on our side. Heavy rain had fallen in the area for the past few days, and it was still drizzling. The trail started at around 1,155 metres, and everything above 1,200 metres was wrapped in thick cloud. We wouldn’t have seen a thing.

We didn’t want to risk getting lost in the fog, and without the reward of the view at the top, it just wasn’t worth it. So we skipped the hike. But since we were already there, we retook the Gaustabanen and walked the final short stretch up to the tower and mast. We popped into the Turisthytte for waffles and hot chocolate – delicious 😋

We spent the night at the foot of the Gaustabanen, and the next morning woke to slightly better weather. Just before leaving for Oslo, we caught a glimpse of the summit peeking out through the clouds.

Conquering Gaustatoppen on foot will have to wait until next time. 🤞