Population 2,500 / 60.3 degrees north

Geilo, Norway

Geilo is one of the most famous ski towns in Norway. The establishment of the Bergen Railway is what led to Geilo becoming the first ski resort in Norway, and it is still one of the largest. It also has some of the most luxurious and expensive cabins in all of Norway. The ski season in Geilo lasts from late October to late April.

Fun Facts About Geilo

Latitude: 60.3 degrees north

Population: 2,500

Hol Municipality

Things to See & Do

Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Geilo

Flåm Railway Museum

This free museum is a great place to visit to get an overview about the construction of the Flåm Railway.

Hikes, Day Trips & Experiences

Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are my recommendations!

Please note – the links provided are affiliate links. I only recommend experiences that I have researched and/or tested and focus on providing unique, local things to do!

Glacier Trekking

It’s possible to book a guided tour to go glacier trekking out at Hardangerjokulen, a nearby glacier.

Toboggan Fun!

Head to nearby Dagali and take part in a two hour toboggan adventure!

Mountain Cart Racing Adventure

Who said there’s nothing to do in summer? Join this mountain cart excursion in Dagali.

Road-Trips

Follow my road-trip guides for scenic trips around Geilo

The E16 from Oslo to Bergen

Follow this self-guided trip between Oslo and Bergen on the E16, one of the major highways in the country. The road is built close to where the historic postal road from the 17th century went, and parts of the old road are still visible and today a hiking trail. That’s why along the way you’ll see stave churches and runestones. There’s also some charming towns and local markets to stop at, turning a long drive into an exciting one!

The Numedal Valley (Fv40)

The Numedal Valley is perhaps one of the best-kept secrets in Norway. Located between Kongsberg and Geilo, the valley contains the largest number of medieval wooden buildings in Norway; an impressive 40 ancient farm buildings and 4 stave churches. On this drive, you’ll see these beautiful historic sites.

The Rv7 from Hønefoss to Eidfjord

The Rv7 is a relatively modern highway in Norway. The earliest road here was in the section between Hardangervidda and Eidfjord in the Måbødalen valley. It’s believed there was a road there in the 16th century. Construction of the highway as we see it today began in sections at the turn of the 20th century. The most difficult part was the stretch over the Hardangervidda plateau, which was finished in 1943. Today the stretch across Hardangervidda is one of Norway’s 18 national tourist roads.

Stavanger to Sogndal on the Rv13

The road from Stavanger to Sogndal is one of the regional highways of Western Norway, but it could easily be classified as a national tourist road. Passing fjords, crossing mountains, and providing stops by waterfalls, glaciers and historic farms, the Rv13 is an incredibly stunning drive. You have the opportunity to cross historic roads or cut through modern tunnels. The Vikafjellet mountain crossing is one of the most impressive in the country. There are a number of stave churches along the way, too

Self-Guided Walks

I currently do not have any self-guided walks available in Geilo

Geilo on YouTube

Watch my YouTube videos featuring Geilo

Uniquely Geilo

Here are some things that you must do and try in Geilo

Skiing

Geilo is Norway’s oldest ski resort, so there’s really no better place to go skiing!

History of Geilo

Geilo Today

Geilo is a small town with several shops and facilities. There’s a cinema, library and school here as well as a sports hall.

Travel Information

Getting Here

Fly: No airport.

Drive: Geilo is located on Highway 7 on the eastern side of the Hardangervidda National Park.

Train: Geilo is a stop roughly halfway between Bergen and Oslo.

Ferry: No ferry access.

Getting Around

Buses connect the town centre to the various ski areas.

Shops

Places to Eat

Cafes & Bakeries

Quick Bites

Reasonable Restaurants

High End & Unique Eats

Halling-Stuene is a traditional Norwegian restaurant.

Places to Stay

All my hotel recommendations are based on research and experience. I don’t recommend somewhere unless I think it is wonderful! The Hidden North focuses on accommodation that provides good quality for price or offer local or unique experiences.

There are so many cabins for rent in Geilo. Do your research on which one is best for you.

Camping

Lodges & B&Bs

Øen Turistsenter is a small hostel with cabins and dorms.

Click here to view rates & book

Chains & Mid-Range

High End & Unique Properties

Dr. Holms Hotel has been a hotel here for over 100 years and was established as a place for relaxation and recuperation amid the mountains. There’s a restaurant and bowling alley inside.