Hardangervidda
Europe’s largest high-mountain plateau and Norway’s largest national park
Spectacular experiences all year round
Hardangervidda is Europe’s largest high-mountain plateau, and it is home to Norway’s largest national park. The unique landscape was shaped by the last ice age, and there is great variety in the natural scenery. The first humans made their way to Hardangervidda over 10,000 years ago, when the ice retreated and wild reindeer began using the plateau as a grazing area. Since then, Hardangervidda has been used by nomads, farmers, hunters, travelers, scientists, and saboteurs.
Rjukan is a natural gateway to the southeastern part of Hardangervidda.
Reindeer and wildlife on Hardangervidda
Hardangervidda is Norway’s largest wild reindeer area, with a total area of 8130 km2. Here, the wild reindeer can still undertake natural migrations without major obstacles.
Many different animal species live on Hardangervidda, such as the wolverine, arctic fox, least weasel, and stoat. Over 450 plant species have been recorded.
More than 120 different bird species are also found here, such as willow ptarmigan, rock ptarmigan, kestrel, merlin, golden eagle, rough-legged buzzard, and owl.
Travel on Hardangervidda
Please show consideration for wild reindeer and other species when setting out on a hike. To protect the wild reindeer, we ask that you use existing marked trails when traveling across Hardangervidda. DNT maintains an extensive network of trails.
If you are lucky enough to spot wild reindeer in the wild, it is important to keep your distance. Feel free to observe the reindeer through binoculars, and remain still until they can move away undisturbed.
Hardangervidda Nasjonalparksenter
At Skinnarbu, you will find the state-authorized national park center, which features an award-winning interactive exhibition on the nature and wild reindeer of Hardangervidda. The center also offers an exciting VR experience and a nature laboratory.
In the summer of 2026, the national park center will open a new exhibition on the gyrfalcon, one of Norway’s most fascinating and rare birds of prey.
At the center’s Café Panorama, you can enjoy delicious pizza, baked goods, and cold an hot drinks, with a fantastic view of Møsvatn and Hardangervidda.
Cycling on Hardangervidda
Hardangervidda offers fantastic cycling trips for all skill levels.
Kalhovd is a great starting point for several excursions, and it is also possible to rent a bicycle at Kalhovd tourist cabin. From here, you can cycle to Gvepseborg or Synken and back.
Fishing
On Hardangervidda, there are excellent opportunities for fishing in both small and large bodies of water, where you can catch trout and char.
High-mountain cruse with M/B Fjellvåken II
The trip across Møsvatn to Hovden or Mogen is a truly unique experience. The boat passes mountain farms and beautiful scenery, and on board you can enjoy a waffle and coffee.
If you purchase tickets for the mountain cruise, lunch at Mogen tourist cabin is included.
If you wish to get off at Hovdenøya, you must buy a ticket in advance!
Tourist cabins and mountain lodges on Hardangervidda
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Kalhovd Turisthytte
Kalhovd lies on the east bank of the Kalhovd Fjord, at the eastern rim of the Hardanger Plateau and is a natural gateway to the plateau.
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Mogen Turisthytte
Mogen Turisthytte is situated at the west end of Møsvatn in Vinje municipality, and is one of Hardangervidda oldest tourist cabins. Many choose Mogen as a base for day trips in the area or as a starting point for hut to hut trip across the plateau.
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Mårbu Seter & Fjellstue
On the eastern side of Hardangervidda, right by the borders of Hardangervidda National Park, you will find Maarbu Moutain Lodge.