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If you're planning a winter holiday in Norway, most travel guides send you far north to chase the Northern Lights, but there’s a more local path to explore — right here in Western Norway.
Tucked between fjords and mountains lies a place locals cherish: Voss, the adventure capital of Norway. It's less crowded, more authentic, and offers a true taste of Norwegian winter. Here, you can experience multi day winter tours, cozy traditions, and outdoor activities that connect you to nature — not just to your camera roll.
Voss: Norway’s Best-Kept Winter Secret
Going outdoors is a huge part of Norwegian culture and identity. Voss is where nature and tradition live side by side. In summer, it’s famous for mountain biking, whitewater rafting, kayaking, SUP paddle, even skydiving and paragliding. In winter, the pace shifts, but the spirit of adventure stays strong. It’s where locals ski and paraglide right after work.
12 Winter Adventures You can do, Norwegian Style
This winter, try something different. Skip the tourist trail. Come see what the locals love — with skis on our feet and fresh mountain air in our lungs! As we Norwegians say, “Ut på tur aldri sur” (Out on a trip, never sour!).
1. Backcountry Skiing in Raundalen
The Raundalen Valley near Voss is a local secret for peaceful backcountry ski tours. These quiet slopes are perfect for anyone seeking fresh snow, simple beauty, and space to breathe.
Tip: If you’re new to touring, there are day to multi-day tours led by certified guides who focus on safety and avalanche awareness.
2. Snowshoe Through the Forest
If skiing’s not your thing, snowshoeing is a great way to explore the landscape at your own pace. Local snowshoes tours around Voss or Myrkdalen take you deep into the forest or up to views you’d never get from the road. No special skills needed.
3. Northern Lights (Yes, You Might See Them Here Too)
You don’t have to go to Tromsø to see the Northern Lights in Norway. On clear, cold nights in Voss and the surrounding mountains, the aurora sometimes shows up when the northern light activity is strong and reaches south — dancing over the fjords and lakes. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s real. And when it happens, it’s magic.
Local secret: Consider a short hike or snowshoe trip away from town lights. Don’t forget to dress accordingly and remember your snow spikes to avoid slipping.
Photo by SUOMI PHOTOGRAPHY from Pexels
4. Ski Resorts + Cross-Country Loops
If you’re looking for classic skiing, take the Voss Gondola at Voss ski resort from town up to Mount Hangurstoppen. At the top, you’ll find panoramic views, cross-country trails, alpine skiing, and a cozy café. It’s one of the easiest ways to experience winter high above the valley.
Better yet go to Myrkdalen or Geilo, and kilometers of groomed cross-country trails winding through peaceful valleys. These trails are perfect for beginners, school groups, or anyone just looking for a quiet glide in the snow.
Tip: Bring a thermos of hot chocolate, Kvikklunsj, Cinnamon Gifflar (classic Norwegian hiking snacks), and stop at a mountain cabin along the way.
5. Ice Fishing on Mountain Lakes
Few travelers know about this — but it’s a local winter tradition. Up in the mountains, once the lakes freeze over, people head out with gear, drill a hole, and settle in for ice fishing. It’s slow, silent, and surprisingly meditative. Locals often bring snacks, coffee, and spend the day surrounded by nothing but snow and sky.
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko from Pexels
6. Cold Plunges in Lake Vangsvatnet
It’s not just a trend — cold water swimming is a tradition here. Locals cut holes in the ice at Vangsvatnet, or dip into icy rivers after a sauna. It’s part health, part mindfulness. Most do it with friends, a towel, and a hot drink waiting.
Want to try? Ask your accommodation about nearby saunas with lake access — some even have heated changing huts.
Photo by Olavi Anttila on Pexels
7. Float in an Ice Lake in a Survival Suit
It sounds extreme — but it's surprisingly cozy. Suit up and float in a frozen lake near Voss. It's safe, guided, and a fun way to test your limits in full comfort.
8. Winter Farm Visits and Traditions
Some mountain farms stay open in winter for short visits. You might find places offering baking sessions, craft-making, or old-style wood-fired cooking. Others offer storytelling or traditional music events around the fire.
Ask around town or check community boards — these aren’t always listed online.
9. Local Hikes with Panoramic Views
Some winter hikes don’t need skis or snowshoes. Trails like the Haugsvarden ridge above Oppheim or Nåli viewpoint near Granvin offer rewarding climbs with views over snowy fjords and valleys.
Safety note: Always check weather and trail conditions, and bring microspikes or traction aids if hiking.
10. Winter Kayaking in Nærøyfjord
Yes, kayaking in winter. Paddle the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord while snow dusts the mountains. The silence on the water is unreal. Dress warm, and you’ll be rewarded with one of the most peaceful fjord tours in Norway.
11. Meet the Vikings in Gudvangen
Step into history at the Viking Village in Gudvangen. Learn ancient skills, hear stories by the fire, and experience how Norwegians thrived through long winters. It’s perfect for families or curious travelers.
12. Ride the Fløibanen Cable Car in Bergen
Just two hours from Voss, Bergen offers winter charm by the sea. Take the Fløibanen Cable Car to the top of Mount Fløyen for panoramic views, forest walks, and sledding tracks that light up in the dark.
Tip: For the adventurous, you can take a sled down the mountain!
Where to stay in Voss?
Voss has plenty of options, from cabins and boutique hotels to self-catered lodges. For a more off-the-grid and local experience, check out the DNT cabins (Norwegian Trekking Association). There are several around Voss and Raundalen, offering a simple, authentic way to connect with nature.
With a DNT membership, you get a special key that unlocks hundreds of cabins across Norway, all year round. Many are near ski trails, lakes, and forests — perfect for your backcountry or snowshoes tour. Most cabins are simple, warm, and set deep in nature. Bring your own food, a sense of adventure, enjoy quiet evenings under the stars, and wake up surrounded by snow.
Other Top Winter Attractions in Norway
Here are other unmissable Norway attractions in winter:
1. Tromsø
Often called the "Gateway to the Arctic," Tromsø is a winter wonderland offering Northern Lights tours, whale watching, and a lively food and culture scene.
2. Lofoten Islands
These rugged islands become even more dramatic under a winter coat of snow. Enjoy photography, winter hiking, and cozy fishing cabins known as rorbuer.
3. Oslo Winter Park
Just outside the capital, this ski resort is perfect for quick day trips. Oslo itself also offers winter markets, cozy cafés, and world-class museums.
4. Ice Hotels & Snow Architecture
Stay at the Kirkenes Snowhotel or the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in Alta; both built entirely from ice and snow, featuring intricately carved interiors and glowing frozen art.
Cultural Experiences Unique to Norway in Winter
Norway’s winter is more than just landscapes; it’s deeply tied to tradition, community, and celebration.
Christmas Markets & Winter Festivals
Norwegian towns and cities come alive with twinkling lights, festive stalls, and the scent of mulled wine. Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim host some of the country’s coziest Christmas markets, while winter festivals like the Northern Lights Festival in Tromsø and Rørosmartnan in Røros blend music, tradition, and community spirit in spectacular fashion.
Polar Night & Blue Hour
From late November to mid-January, Northern Norway experiences the enchanting polar night, a time when the sun stays below the horizon. In its place comes the mystical blue hour, a soft twilight that bathes the landscape in magical shades of blue and purple. It's an experience that turns ordinary moments into magic.
For Groups, Corporates, Schools & Friends
Winter is best experienced together! Whether you're organizing a school trip, corporate retreat, or a getaway with friends, there's an adventure for every group. Give the gift of a true Norwegian winter experience with a Fjord Norway Adventure Package, featuring skiing, snowshoeing, and immersive cultural activities.
Tips From Locals: How to Make the Most of Winter in Norway
- Dress accordingly and in layers: Invest in wool base layers, waterproof outerwear, and insulated boots. There’s no bad weather, just bad clothing!
- Don’t skip rest days: Let yourself sit by a fire, journal, or sip hot chocolate while watching the snow fall.
- Book Tours in Advance: Especially during peak season (December to February).
- Take the Train: Routes like the Bergen Line and Flåm Railway are stunning in winter.
- Check Road & Weather Conditions: Winter storms can impact travel in rural areas.
- Try Local Foods: Warm up with traditional dishes like rakfisk (fermented fish), kjøttkaker (meatballs), and cloudberry desserts.
Magic of Norway in Winter
Winter in Norway doesn’t have to be cold and rushed. In Voss and Western Norway, it’s calm, soulful, and full of adventure — a local winter escape, if you know where to look.
So pack your boots. Bring your curiosity. And try something new. Whether it’s a snowshoes tour, a backcountry ski adventure, or a cold dip in a mountain lake, this winter could be your most memorable one yet.
Ready to plan your winter escape? Explore our handpicked tours, guides, and seasonal tips to make your Norway winter trip one for the books.
