Green Route & King’s Road

8 Days | Self-guided | Summer | Hiking | Jotunheimen
This hike combines our popular Discover Jotunheimen Green Route with two days of hiking along the Kingsroad. This tour is designed for hikers of average fitness levels, with some basic hiking and outdoor skills. You are not only interested in experiencing the impressive and untouched Jotunheimen National Park but also in the more cultural and mankind-influenced stretches along the Kingsroad.

Highlights

  • Hiking in Jotunheimen National Park
  • Hiking along the Kingsroad
  • Delicious local food at historic accommodations

Included

  • Bus transport from/to Oslo
  • Transport to Kingsroad
  • Luggage transport
  • 7x Accommodation incl. bedlinen, towels
  • 7x Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner
  • Detailed tour description
  • Map from Jotunheimen, King’s Road

Season and price 2025

25 Juni – 29 August 2025
03 – 05 + 10 – 12 September 2025

Adult (double room): NOK 20.600
Single room suppl.: NOK 5.400
Children (12 – 17 yrs.): 14.900

8-days hiking adventure in Jotunheimen and along the King’s Road  

Experience the nature of the magical Jotunheimen National Park, by hiking through valleys to see some of Norway’s highest peaks and sleeping at historical accommodations serving local food. The terrain in Jotunheimen is rockier than what you may be used to. But with day stretches at about 12 kilometers and 5-600 accent meters, this should be affordable for the trekkers in average shape and with some hiking experience. You will also get the chance to reach some of the easier peaks in the area. The last days at Kingsoad will be a travel back in time. Here there are a lot of history, and the hikes will be easier than the start of the trip.

Day to day

Day 1: Arrival

Transport
Take the Valdresekspressen from Oslo to Jotunheimen.

Activity, Hike Synshorn
Time: 1-2 hours, Distance: 5 kilometers, ↑ 450 meters

Synshorn is located at 1457 m.a.s.l. and offers a fantastic view of Jotunheimen. The trails are easy to walk and vary between some soft terrain and more rocky terrain near the top.

Accommodation: Bygdin Høifieldshotell

Day 2: Hike Bitihorn

Time: 4-6 hours, Distance: 10 kilometers, ↑ 600 meters

Bitihorn is an iconic mountain at 1607 m.a.s.l. and is a classic route at Bygdin. It is one of the simpler peaks in the area and is well-suited for beginners and mountaineers. At the top, you get a fantastic panoramic view of large parts of Valdres.

Accommodation: Bygdin Høyfjellshotell

Day 3: Hike Svartdalen

Transport, Boat cruise
You will sail with historical M/B Bitihorn from Bygdin to Torfinnsbu, where your hike starts (45 min).

Activity, Hike Svartdalen (the Black Valley)
Time: 6-8 hours, Distance: 14 kilometers, ↑ 610 meters

Svartdalen is a very beautiful valley with views of many 2000-meter peaks and glaciers. However, it is not an easy hike since the trail is quite rocky and good surefootedness and poles are an advantage. In the end, a steep downhill awaits you – under wet conditions, this part can be quite slippery too. Take your time to come safely to the next cabin.

Accommodation: Gjendebu DNT-cabin

Day 4: Gjendetunja

This day you can enjoy a rest day in the beautiful environment at Gjendebu.

Alternative 1 Hike Gjendetunga
Time: 3-5 hours, Distance: 10 km, ↑520 meters

Gjendetunga towers over the cabin Gjendebu and is a trip you will not want to miss if you are in this area. On a clear day, we enjoy lunch at the top with a 360-degree beautiful view of green Gjende, and the mountain massifs to the east and west. But be aware that there is a shorter steep section that can be a bit challenging especially when wet.

Alternative 2 Hike Bukkelægre round tour
Time: 3-6 hours, Distance: 14 km, ↑550 meters

If you are up for something more challenging, this hike is beautiful and exciting. You start by the lake before climbing a steep hill up almost 500 meters to Bukkelægre. Up at the ridge you hike in easy terrain towards beautiful Storådalen. And then the last 4 kilometers you follow the river Storåa back to Gjendebu. Be aware, this hike has got an even steeper and longer steep section with changes to hold on to, than the hike to Gjendetunga.

Accommodation: Gjendebu DNT-cabin

Day 5: Hike Veslådalen

Time: 5-7 hours, Distance: 16 kilometers, ↑516 meters

The hike between Gjendebu and Eidsbugarden goes between the lakes Gjende and Bygdin in Jotunheimen National Park. From Gjendebu, the trip goes through Veslådalen before ending at Eidsbugarden where you will take a bus in the afternoon to Tyinkrysset.

Accommodation: Filefjellstuene

Day 6: Hike King's Road

Activity: Kyrkjestølen to Maristova
Time: 4 hours, Distance: 10.7 km, ↑350 meters

Between Kyrkjestølen and Maristova, you will cross the actual Filefjell and reach Kongevegen’s highest point with spectacular views of the Hurrungane peaks.
Here you can see what it meant to build a road according to «the French principle». It was as straight a line as possible, with great emphasis on drainage and foundation work, but without any particular consideration for the character of the terrain.
Pick up and transfer back to Filefjellstuene.

Accommodation: Filefjellstuene

Day 7: Hike King's Road

Activity: Vindhellavegen and Galdane
Time: 6,5 hours, Distance: appr. 10 km

Today you start your hike at the well-preserved stave church of Borgund (from 1180). Here you can find an exhibition and we recommend visiting the church (extra fee). From here you will go down the Vindhellavegen – the most spectacular and popular part of the Kingsroad. Depending on your hiking speed you can proceed further down along the Galdane Canyon and the spectacular Lærdals river.
Pick up along the road and transfer back to Filefjellstuene.

Accommodation: Filefjellstuene

Day 8: Departure

Bus: Tyinkrysset to Oslo

Alternative:
You can choose to depart towards Bergen and even add a Fjord Cruise from Flåm to Bergen.
Different departure/arrival times possible. 

Practical information

Below you will find practical information about this trip.
Not finding what you are looking for? See our site FAQ, or send us an e-mail – we will help you!

Important details

Everyone is welcome to join this hiking adventure, regardless of experience. 

To fully enjoy your hiking adventure in the mountainous areas, it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather conditions and local temperatures. For a comfortable and enjoyable experience, we recommend wearing warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy mountain hiking boots that provide ankle support, and bringing sunscreen and sunglasses in case of sunny weather. It is not recommended to wear trail runners, everyday shoes, or sneakers. 

When you book with us, we’ll provide you with a packing list to ensure you have all the necessary clothing and gear. 

Good to know

Luggage transport 
Experience the freedom of walking light as we effortlessly transport your luggage (1x luggage per person) between the accommodations. 

Accommodation 
At Filefjellstuene and Husum Hotel you will have a private bathroom. 

Meal 
All accommodations focus on local food. At the breakfast table you will make yourself the lunch package. On request you can get as well warm tea or coffee with you on the hike (if you bring your own thermos). The dinner is a three-course dinner. 

Trails/Orientation 
The trails are narrow, often rocky, and sometimes you need to cross rivers and streams. For orientation, you will receive a physical map from us and a detailed tour description. 

On your arrival day you will be updated from our staff where to go and where/when the pick-up will be. 

    Available add-ons

    Hiking poles rental: NOK 490 

    Hiking poles are often underrated but highly recommended. They provide extra stability and support, especially on uneven terrain and inclines, effectively reducing fatigue and lowering the risk of injuries, particularly during descents. You can rent hiking poles for the entire duration of the tour, and this option can be added to your booking prior to departure.
     

    Fjord cruise from Flåm to Bergen (5 hours): NOK 1.525
    You have the option to disembark the bus at Flåm en route to Bergen and join the Fjord cruise to Bergen. Your luggage will be transported to your hotel (if you book accommodation service as an extension of the package). 

    Hiking on “Top of Bergen”: NOK 1.290
    This guided hike is a must-do if you want to get the most out of your visit to Bergen. It is a medium 3 + hours hike away from the crowds with great views of Bergen and the surrounding area. 

    Transport

    Experience the convenience of choosing from various departure times and travel destinations along our express bus routes. Share your travel plans with us, and we’ll take care of the arrangements, ensuring a stress-free experience for you. 

    See more of our autumn hikes in Jotunheimen

    Day to day

    Day 1: Oslo - Gjendesheim

    Bus: Valdresekspressen fra Oslo

    Transport from Oslo bus Terminal (Oslo Airport). 
    If you are coming from Oslo Airport, you must count about 1 hour to transfer to Oslo Bus Terminal. 

    If the time schedule does not fit your flight we can help with accommodation in Oslo, adding one extra night. Let us know.

     

    Accomodation: Gjendesheim turisthytte DNT

    Gjendesheim Turisthytte has a history dating back to 1878. The hut is run by DNT and is located in the heart of the Norwegian mountains, with Besseggen Ridge as a neighbor.

     

    Day 2: Knutshøe

    First ridge: Knutshøe

    Level of difficulty: medium
    Duration: 4-6 hours
    Distance: 13 kilometers
    Ascent: 700 meters

    Knutshø is called Bessegens little brother. The mountain has a very cool shape and are exposed with lakes on both sides. The ridge has two challenge points where you will have to use all hands and feet.

    Accomodation: Gjendesheim turisthytte DNT

    Gjendesheim Turisthytte has a history dating back to 1878. The hut is run by DNT and is located in the heart of the Norwegian mountains, with Besseggen ridge as a neighbor.

    .

    Day 3: Boat cruise to Gjendebu

    Boat: Boat cruise to Gjendebu

    I dag skal dere ta den flotte båtturen over Gjendevannet. Hvis dere ønsker en kortere båttur, kan dere vandre langs den første delen av innsjøen.

    Alt. hike from Gjendesheim to Memurubu 

    Level of difficulty: Easy 
    Duration: 2-3 hours 
    Distance: 10 kilometers 
    Ascent: 400 meters

    This hike is a nice and easy walk alongside the lake.  

    Accommodation: Gjendebu Turisthytte DNT 
    At 990 masl at the west end of Gjende Lake you will find Gjendebu. The hotel offers a traditional and historic atmosphere, with good local food - and is the oldest cabin of DNT, built in 1871.  

    Day 4: Bukkelægret


    V
    Hike: Bukkelægret

    Level of difficulty: Medium 
    Duration: 5 hours 
    Distance: 11 kilometers 
    Ascent: 850 meters 

    Bukkelægret is an exciting, steep walk with a longer flat section in the middle. The trip takes you through several mountain lakes packed with mountain trout - a perfect area to have lunch. The high route gives a great view over the water Gjende. In the steepest parts of this route you can hold on to the chain for extra safety, or hike an alternative route.  

    Accomodation: Memurubu DNT
    Memurubu is a tourist hut at the end or start of the famous Besseggen hiking trail. Memurubu is originally an old mountain pasture dating back to 1872, but has had tourists just as long. Cows are still grazing around the tourist hut, which lies at the mouth of the river Muru in the valley Memurudalen.

    Day 5: Besseggen

    Hike: Besseggen 

    Level of difficulty: Medium 
    Duration: 6-8 hours 
    Distance: 14 kilometers 
    Ascent: 1132 meters 

    Besseggen is one of Norway's most popular hikes. There is a fantastic view of majestic Jotunheimen on a trip over the narrow, airy ridge. With the green Gjende Lake 400 meters straight down on one side, and the deep blue Bessvatnet Lake on the other, you will have an experience you will never forget.

    Accommodation: Gjendebu Turisthytte DNT 

    At 990 masl at the west end of Gjende Lake you will find Gjendebu. The hotel offers a traditional and historic atmosphere, with good local food - and is the oldest cabin of DNT, built in 1871.

    Day 6: Gjendesheim - Oslo

     

    Bus: Gjendesheim - Oslo 

    Transport from Gjendesheim to Oslo bus Terminal (Oslo Airport). 
    If you are going to Oslo Airport, you must count about 1 hour to transfer from Oslo Bus Terminal. 

    If the time schedule does not fit your flight we can help with accommodation in Oslo, adding one extra night. Let us know.

    See bus departures from Gjendesheim below Practical information.

    Practical information

    Below you will find practical information about this trip.
    Can not find what you are looking for? See our frequently asked questions page, or send us an email – we will help you!

    Departures from Oslo

    Monday-Wednesday

    8.30 am – 1.05 pm 

    Thursdays 

    8.30 am – 1.05 pm 
    3.05 pm – 7.05 pm 
    5.00 pm – 9.05 pm 
    5.20 pm – 9.03 pm (Directly from Oslo Airport) 

    Friday 

    8.30 am - 1.05 pm 
    1.05 pm – 5.45 pm 
    5.20 pm – 9.03 pm (Directly from Oslo Airport) 

    Saturday 

    8.30 am - 1.05 pm 
    10.20 am – 1.35 pm 

    Sunday 

    10.20 am – 1.35 pm 
    12.20 pm – 4.50 pm 
    5.20 pm – 9.03 pm (Directly from Oslo Airport)

     

    Luggage transport

    We will send your luggage from cabin to cabin, so you only need to bring a daypack.

    Departures from Gjendesheim

    Monday-Friday 

    2.00 pm – 6.35 pm 

    Saturday 

    10.00 am – 2.45 pm 
    2.00 pm – 6.35 pm 

    Sunday 

    10.00 am – 2.45 pm 
    10.00 am -2.21 pm (Directly to Oslo Airport) 
    4.00 pm – 8.20 pm 
    5.35 pm – 10.00 pm

    Meals

    All restaurants offer food based on local ingredients. For breakfast, there will be a buffet. Here you also need to make yourself a packed lunch that you bring to lunch for the day. Use your beewax food wrap. It is possible to fill a thermos, check with the accommodation. Dinner will be served in the afternoon/evening. 

    Accomodation

    Gjendesheim Turisthytte DNT:  

    Gjendesheim Turisthytte has a history dating back to 1878. The hut is run by DNT and is located in the heart of the Norwegian mountains, with Besseggen Ridge as a neighbor.  

    Gjendebu Turisthytte DNT:  

    At 990 masl at the west end of Gjende Lake, you will find Gjendebu. The DNT cabin offers a traditional and historic atmosphere, with good local food – and is the oldest cabin of DNT, built in 1871. 

    Memurubu Turisthytte:  

    Memurubu is a tourist hut at the end or start of the famous Besseggen hiking trail. Memurubu is originally an old mountain pasture dating back to 1872, but has had tourists for just as long. Cows are still grazing around the tourist hut, which lies at the mouth of the river Muru in the valley Memurudalen. 

    Trails and weather

    The conditions in the autumn are wonderful, but it can also give some challenges. You need to be prepared to walk in the snow in case of snowfall. We have also described alternative routes for the steepest parts if the exposure or conditions makes it uncountable. In September, normal temperature is between 0-10 degrees.

    All the paths are well-marked. The terrain varies from flat and easy to rocky and hilly. All the hikes as a short steep, exposed crux where you will have to use both legs and arms. Thou these sections can be avoided by walking an alternative route around.

    Equipment list

    We will send you equipment-list when ordering. 

    Opplev Jotunheimen med oss!