Places to stay and activities in Skien

Fresh air and the opportunity for exercise have attracted tourists to Skeikampen since the end of the 19th century, when Norway’s first tourist hotel was located there in the mountains. Hiking in the mountains, either on foot or on skis, is still what attracts many people to Skeikampen and the varied terrain is excellent for recreational trips regardless of what fitness level you are and when in the year you are visiting. Below we have gathered some of our absolute favourite activities at Skeikampen – suitable for both big and small mountaineers.

Mountain hikes

Top trail to Skeikampen

The hike to the top of Skeikampen is a popular and easily accessible mountain hike, suitable for both big and small mountaineers. The trail is steep but affordable, and from the top you have a wide view of Jotunheimen, Dovrefjell and the surrounding mountains. On the top is Steinhytta, which provides shelter on weathery days.

Seterrunden

The round of seats is an easy and family-friendly tour of around four kilometres. The tour takes you on gravel roads in varied terrain with views of mountains and sea landscapes. The tour starts at the Welcome Centre and follows Peer Gynt Road and the area around Skei Seats before returning to the starting point. A great hike for those who want a quiet stroll in the fresh mountain air.

Skiing activities

Alpine skiing for all ages

Skeikampen Alpinanlegg offers 21 downhill slopes and 11 lifts, with varied trails for both beginners and experienced skiers. The children’s area is designed for safe and playful skiing, and the terrain park offers extra challenges for those who want to jump and try out new tricks. You can book a ski school or private instructor, and it is easy to rent equipment for alpine skiing, snowboarding, telemark and cross-country skiing.

Cross-country trails in beautiful surroundings

Skeikampen has over 200 kilometres of prepared cross-country skiing trails in varied terrain between forest and high mountains. The season often lasts from early winter to late spring, depending on the snow conditions. The panoramic trail offers great views of Rondane and Jotunheimen, while the Peer Gynt trail follows the open mountain landscape towards Fagerhøi. For longer hikes in quieter forest terrain, Gammelsetra and Bjørgarunden are popular choices.

Learn cross-country skiing techniques with an instructor

If you want to become safer when skiing, you can take part in cross-country skiing courses at Skeikampen. The courses are suitable for both beginners and those who want to fine-tune the technique before longer trips. Expert guidance makes it easier to find your flow and skiing pleasure.

Impress with new ski and board skills

Skeikampen Snowsport Academy offers courses and private training in alpine skiing, snowboarding, telemark and cross-country skiing. Here, both children and adults can develop their skills, whether the goal is better carving, safer driving or more control in the park. There are also freeride courses for those who want to explore the terrain off the slopes.

Safe to the summit

Skeikampen and the surrounding areas offer great opportunities for skiing. With a guide, you get both the necessary knowledge and confidence to experience the winter mountain in a safe way. The reward is silence at the top and a great descent in varied terrain.

Adrenalin kick on skis

The open high mountain areas around Skeikampen provide good conditions for snow kiting when the wind is right. There are courses for both beginners and advanced, and the activity is suitable for those who want to try something a little different in the winter mountains.

Be safe in the mountains

If you are planning a mountain hike, knowledge of avalanches and safe traffic are crucial. On courses, you will learn to assess snow conditions, terrain and risks, so that you can make safe choices in the mountains. This is useful for both new and experienced skiers who want to ride safely in the winter mountains.

Activities without skis 

Skeikampen cycle paradise

Skeikampen offers varied cycling experiences for both beginners and experienced riders. Here you’ll find everything from family-friendly gravel paths and seated paths to mountain paths with great views. The terrain varies between gentle and more demanding, so everyone can find a suitable route.

At Thon Hotel Skeikampen, you can rent bicycles and get tips for hikes in the area.

Full speed on two wheels

Skeikampen is known for its good mountain biking conditions, with narrow paths and fine streams. Courses are offered for both regular bikes and electric bikes, where you learn technique and become safer off-road. Bikes and equipment can be rented locally, but it is worthwhile to book early during peak season.

Golf up high

Skei Golf is located 854 metres above sea level and is one of the highest 18-hole courses in the Nordic region. The course is usually open from June to October, depending on weather conditions. Here you will meet an informal environment and beautiful views of the mountain landscape.

Downhill at full speed

In the summer, you can get your adrenaline going with sledging on the alpine slopes after business hours. With a lift up and specially built sleds, it’s downhill - a fun activity for those who want to try something a little different.

Happy paddling

Skeikampen offers calm waters that are well suited for canoeing and kayaking. A paddle tour is a great way to experience nature, whether you’re in a family room or with friends. Canoes can be rented at Austlid Fjellstue during the summer season.

For the water nymphs

Around Skeikampen you will find several lovely bathing spots that can easily be combined with a hike or bike ride. Paradis offers charcoal in the river and barbecue opportunities, while Veslesætervatnet and the areas by Austlid have facilities for both swimming and campfire. At Rausjøen you will find sand beaches, diving opportunities and child-friendly areas.

Try your luck at fishing

The mountain areas around Skeikampen have many good fishing waters and rivers. Here you can fish for trout, roe and bait in quiet surroundings. Several waters are easily available at Peer Gynt Vegen and Veslesetervegen, with great areas for both day trips and overnight camping.

Family activities

Hunderfossen Adventure Park

Hunderfossen Adventure Park is one of Norway’s most popular family parks, with over 60 attractions for young and old. Here you’ll find everything from fairy tale figures to rollercoasters like Il Tempo Extra Gigante. The park is about a 35-minute drive from Skeikampen, just north of Lillehammer.

The potholes in Helvete (Hell)

Helvete Nature Park offers impressive jette pots formed during the last ice age, some over 40 metres deep. Here you can experience dramatic natural formations up close. The area also has Dalbakken Fjellgard with livestock and beautiful mountain scenery.

Horseback riding in the mountains

In Espedalen, a short drive from Skeikampen, riding tours are arranged in the mountains during the summer season. The tours are suitable for both beginners and more experienced riders, offering a calm and natural experience.

Lilleputthammer Family Park

Lilleputthammer in Hafjell is specially designed for children between 0 and 8 years. Here they can drive trains, carousels and small roller coasters, as well as play in climbing areas and obstacle courses.

Tobogganing and bobsledding in Lillehammer

At the Lillehammer Olympic Bob and ake track you can test a real Olympic arena. In the winter, there is a bobraft and taxi bob, while in the summer you can try wheel bob. The resort is located by Hunderfossen, about 40 minutes from Skeikampen.