Scenic Views & Nature Experiences

Gaustatoppen, rising 1,883 meters above sea level, is one of Norway’s most iconic mountain peaks. It offers one of the best panoramic views in the entire country. On a clear day, you can see more than 60 peaks in every direction. If you visit the summit in clear weather, you can at the same time enjoy views of Jotunheimen to the north, Nordmarka in Oslo to the east, Hardangervidda to the west, and, if you are lucky, even the lighthouse at Færder at the very edge of the Oslofjord.

Gaustatoppen is one of the most weather exposed places in Norway, where wind and weather hit the mountain with full force. Here, steep mountainsides rise sharply from the landscape, and the raw surroundings create a strong sense of height, exposure and grandeur.

Wind, storms and rapidly changing weather shape the mountain throughout the year. One especially distinctive phenomenon is atmospheric icing, also known as cloud icing, which occurs when supercooled water droplets in the clouds freeze onto masts, antennas and the cairn at the summit. Over time, this can build up into large masses of ice and give the mountain a striking, almost sculptural appearance.

Being at Gaustatoppen is a unique experience, with steep mountainsides, powerful natural phenomena and views stretching far beyond the horizon.

At Gaustatoppen, you are closer to the stars than anywhere else in Telemark. At this elevation, there is very little light pollution, and when the sun sets after another day, an impressive display of stars appears across the dark night sky. Whether you already know the names of many constellations or not, Gaustatoppen is a perfect place to become more familiar with the Milky Way. Just bring a pair of binoculars and a star map, and let yourself be fascinated.