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Geilo - Gateway to Norway’s Mountains on the Bergen Railway

Geilo is a year-round mountain destination where Norwegian outdoor life takes center stage.
Located halfway between Oslo and Bergen, Geilo is easily accessible by train along the scenic Bergen Railway. The town is one of Norway’s best-known ski resorts and a favorite among Norwegians. And for good reason: there’s great skiing in winter and a range of outdoor activities in summer.
Add Geilo as an optional stop on the Norway in a Nutshell® tour to explore for yourself.
Three enjoy ice cream at picnic table in sunny plaza near alpine shops.
Hikers with backpacks study map outside tourist info in sunny weather.
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Why visit Geilo?

Nature, tradition, and slow mountain life come together in Geilo. It’s not about rushing from one attraction to the next. Instead, enjoy the fresh air, stretch your legs on the hiking trails, and experience Norwegian mountain life.

A natural stop on your Norway in a Nutshell® tour

Geilo is situated between Oslo and Bergen, and lies along the famous Bergen Railway, one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. Because of its location along the railway, Geilo fits naturally into your Norway in a Nutshell® itinerary. Get to the heart of the mountains by simply stepping off the train at Geilo station.

Experience mountain life like the locals

Geilo shows a different side of Norway. While the fjords have high-energy activities, Geilo is all about mountain life and outdoor simplicity. Hiking, cycling, and quiet moments in nature are at the heart of any visit here.
The atmosphere is relaxed and authentic. Wooden cabins dot the hillsides, locals go out on the trails, and cozy mountain lodges serve comforting meals after a day spent outdoors.
Geilo’s story as a mountain destination goes back more than a century. In the late 1800s, Norwegians arrived by train looking for fresh air, outdoor adventures, and peaceful surroundings. That tradition continues today, with visitors coming year-round to enjoy the same mountain and welcoming atmosphere.
Man and kids on rustic bridge watch rushing river below in forest setting.

What to do in Geilo in summer?

Geilo becomes a playground for mountain adventures in the summer. Think long daylight hours and easy access to national parks and trails: a winning combination.
Trail sign points to Geilo and Tuftelia, meadows and misty mountains behind.

Hiking in Geilo

Want to go hiking? You’re in the right spot, because Geilo has numerous hiking trails starting right from the village center. Geilo is surrounded by 2 national parks: Hallingskarvet National Park to the north and Hardangervidda National Park to the south. With so many hiking opportunities, you won’t run out of hiking options any time soon!
Here’s what makes each park unique:
  • Hardangervidda is Europe’s largest mountain plateau with many hiking trails.
  • Hallingskarvet National Park has dramatic ridges and peaks that rise above the valleys.
Cyclists rest on rocks beside gravel road in green, snowy mountains.

Cycling routes around Geilo

Geilo is a fantastic base for exploring the mountains on two wheels. With Hardangervidda right around the corner, you’ll find several routes past lakes and across the plateaus.
But there’s more! Cycle a part of Rallarvegen (the Navvies’ Road), which was originally built as a construction road for the Bergen Railway. The cycling route takes you through dramatic mountain landscapes, past waterfalls and glaciers, with sections accessible to casual cyclists.

Other activities in Geilo

Want to get the blood pumping a bit more? Visit the Geilo Summer Park. Try downhill biking, climbing routes, and ziplines that soar over the deserted slopes. The summer park has fun challenges for different ages and skill levels, so that the entire family can join the fun.
Beyond the activity park, you can also go horseback riding, mountain biking, paddle boarding, or canoeing on the lake – maybe you’ll spot a beaver...
Snowy mountain landscape at sunrise, golden light on peaks and town below.

What’s winter like in Geilo?

Geilo is a classic mountain skiing destination. Imagine snow-covered landscapes, cozy cabins with snow on the roofs, and people walking around with skis under their arms.

Cross-country skiing

For many Norwegians, cross-country skiing is at the heart of winter life in Geilo. And for good reason, because the area has a big network of trails, stretching for hundreds of kilometers across forests and mountain plateaus.
Many of the trails start right from the village and lead out into the open landscapes of Hardangervidda. Try this tradition for yourself.
Skiers ride chairlift over snowy slope with tracks and distant peaks.

Hit the slopes at a ski resort

Geilo ski resort is especially known for being family-friendly, with good ski schools, children’s areas, and slopes to match different levels.
After a day on the slopes, head into the village to experience the Norwegian mountain winter atmosphere. Warm up in cozy restaurants or relax in a wooden cabin.

Add Geilo to your Norway in a Nutshell® tour

Exploring Geilo becomes easier when it’s part of a Norway in a Nutshell® journey.
  • Start in Oslo or Bergen
  • Add an overnight stop in Geilo
  • Explore Norway’s most scenic landscapes by train and fjord cruise on one seamless journey
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Frequently asked questions about Geilo

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