Best Places to Ski in Norway

As an expat or digital nomad in Norway, you're in for a treat if you're a fan of skiing. Norway's dramatic landscapes offer some of the best skiing experiences in the world, with pristine slopes and breathtaking views. Whether you're a beginner looking for gentle runs or an expert seeking challenging terrain, Norway has a ski area that's perfect for you. Here's a list of the top ski areas that you should consider visiting during your stay in this winter wonderland.

Trysil

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: Eastern Norway, near the Swedish border.
Family Friendly: Yes

Trysil is Norway's largest ski destination and offers a variety of slopes suitable for all levels, including families with children. With its well-groomed runs, modern facilities, and a ski school offering lessons in multiple languages, it's an ideal spot for expats and digital nomads looking to hit the slopes. The resort also boasts a fun park for snowboarders and freestyle skiers.

We Recommend: Trysilfjellet Restaurant & Bar for its cozy atmosphere and hearty Norwegian cuisine, perfect for refueling after a day on the slopes.

Hemsedal

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: Central Norway, in the heart of the Norwegian mountains.
Family Friendly: Yes

Hemsedal, known as the 'Scandinavian Alps', offers a mix of challenging and gentle slopes. It's a favorite among both locals and international visitors for its high-quality snow and varied terrain. The ski resort also features Scandinavia's largest terrain park and hosts several winter events and competitions.

We Recommend: Skistua Hemsedal for its traditional Norwegian dishes and lively après-ski scene.

Lillehammer

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: Eastern Norway, along Lake Mjosa.
Family Friendly: Yes

Lillehammer, the host of the 1994 Winter Olympics, offers a historic ski experience with modern amenities. The area includes several ski resorts, such as Hafjell and Kvitfjell, which provide a variety of runs for all skill levels. Lillehammer is also great for cross-country skiing, with extensive trails available.

We Recommend: Nikkers for a unique dining experience in a building dating back to the 1700s, offering both local and international cuisine.

Geilo

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: Between Oslo and Bergen.
Family Friendly: Yes

Geilo is one of Norway's oldest ski resorts and is very family-friendly, with a number of gentle slopes for beginners and children. It also offers activities like dog sledding and ice fishing, making it a great destination for those looking for a winter adventure beyond skiing.

We Recommend: Hallingstuene for its warm, rustic atmosphere and menu featuring local game and traditional Norwegian dishes.

Beitostolen

Ability Level: Beginner to intermediate.
Location: Central Norway, in the Valdres region.
Family Friendly: Yes

Beitostolen is a charming and compact ski resort that's perfect for families and those new to skiing. The resort offers easy-to-navigate slopes and a friendly, small-town atmosphere. It's also a great starting point for cross-country skiing, with well-prepared tracks leading into the mountains.

We Recommend: Peppes Pizza for a casual dining experience with familiar flavors, especially if you're traveling with kids.

Norefjell

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: Less than two hours from Oslo.
Family Friendly: Yes

Norefjell is a great option for those looking to escape the city for a day or weekend. With a range of slopes and excellent off-piste opportunities, it caters to all skiing abilities. The resort also offers a spa for relaxation after a day of skiing.

We Recommend: Norefjellhytta Restaurant & Overnatting for its exquisite dining experience and panoramic views of the surrounding nature.

Oppdal

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: Central Norway, in the Trondelag region.
Family Friendly: Yes

Oppdal is known for its four interconnected ski areas and excellent off-piste and cross-country skiing options. It's a less crowded alternative to some of the more popular resorts, offering a more authentic Norwegian skiing experience.

We Recommend: Smak & Behag for a delightful culinary experience with a focus on local ingredients and flavors.

Roldal

Ability Level: Intermediate to expert.
Location: Western Norway, known for its deep snow.
Family Friendly: No

Roldal may not be as family-friendly due to its challenging terrain, but it's a paradise for experienced skiers seeking adventure. It's famous for its annual snowfall, making it a hotspot for off-piste and freeride skiing.

We Recommend: Roldalsterrassen for its relaxed atmosphere and menu that includes both traditional Norwegian fare and international dishes.

Myrkdalen

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: Western Norway, near Voss.
Family Friendly: Yes

Myrkdalen is one of the snowiest ski resorts in Europe, offering a wide range of slopes and excellent conditions for powder skiing. It's family-friendly with a variety of winter activities and a ski school for beginners.

We Recommend: Myrkdalsstovo for its cozy environment and tasty local cuisine, perfect for a break between ski runs.

Stryn

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: Western Norway, known for summer skiing on the glacier.
Family Friendly: Yes

Stryn is unique in that it offers the opportunity to ski in the summer on the Jostedalsbreen glacier. The winter ski resort also provides a variety of runs for all levels, with stunning views of the surrounding fjords and mountains.

We Recommend: Igloo Hotel for an unforgettable dining experience in a building made entirely of snow and ice, open during the summer skiing season.

Whether you're in Norway for a short stay or planning to make it your home for a while, these ski areas offer a fantastic way to enjoy the country's natural beauty and embrace the local culture. Remember to check the conditions and opening times before you visit, as they can vary depending on the season and weather.