Surrounded by majestic Jotunheimen mountains and situated by the scenic lake Gjende at 1000 metres above sea level, Gjendesheim is one of the most visited mountain lodges in Norway!
Gjendesheim has a scenic location below the world famous Besseggen ridge, overlooking lake Gjende. The lodge offers easy access to adventures in fantastic mountain surroundings. Gjendesheim is an excellent place to spend your holidays, also for families with short feet and high outdoor dreams.
Gjendesheim is widely known for it's emphasis on local food, excellent service, cozy atmosphere, epic terrain and wide variety of activities for all levels year round.
In the reception you can buy basic outdoor equipment and it is possible to rent high quality equipment for activities both summer and winter. The lodge is easily accessible by car, and is situated in a region known for it's beautiful mountains, small scale farms, rich history and active lifestyle. Gjendesheim lodge is open almost all year round and is the main gate to Jotunheimen highlands - home of the Norwegian giants. In the summer, a scenic boatride brings you from Gjendesheim to access the world famous hike back across the narrow Besseggen ridge. Check out our activities, courses and events – and look forward to delicious local food with a spectacular view!
At Gjendesheim there is always room for our guests, but we preffer that you book your stay in advance here. The lodge offers 185 beds in 1-, 2- or 4- bed rooms. We also have dormitories in a separate house.
Gjendesheim is closed for some weeks in the late autumn/early winter plus spring time.
How to get to Gjendesheim:
Winter:
By car: Car road all the way to Gjendesheim through Randsverk (take the road through Gudbrandsdalen – see the description below under "summer"). Be aware: the road over Valdresflye is closed during the winter (opens around 1st of April). Find more info at: www.vegvesen.no
By bus: From April it's possible to arrive Gjendesheim by bus. Read more here.
Summer:
By car: Car road all the way to Gjendesheim through Randsverk. From Gudbrandsdalen (E6) you take the road through Otta or Sjoa to Randsverk and then to Gjendesheim. From Valdres: take the road through Fagernes to Beitostølen, over Valdresflye to Gjendesheim.
By bus/train: During the season there are many expresbusses and local busses to Gjendesheim. Find your travel schedule at the app Entur.
* General Opening Text