Snow Way Like Norway

Scandinavia has been the hot ‘new’ destination for skiers over the past few winters now and 25-26 sees more resort options becoming available through travel companies and more flight options opening from the UK.

In fact, Finland has been popular for decades now, and a few destinations in Sweden like the region’s biggest resort Åre and increasingly popular Sälen have drawn ‘in the know’ British skiers for years too.

But its Norway that has really bounced in popularity over the last few years. That’s thanks in part to great access via Norwegian airlines and efficient and affordable rail and bus services, partly as the region has a reputation for colder weather and thus maybe better snow conditions, on average, than the Alps. Of course, nothing is guaranteed with that one.

For many skiers there’s also an old school charm to Norway’s resorts, smaller than they are than most of the big names in the Alps. It seems size doesn’t matter so much to many as less crowded slopes and a welcoming atmosphere.

There’s also the chance of seeing the Northern Lights and at many Norwegian ski destinations the exciting feeling that you’re far from population centres in the clean, clear air of the north.

“I skied in Voss and Myrkdalen last winter and it reminded me of the halcyon days learning to ski on a school trip in a small French resort with drag lifts. Such a magical way to learn, compared with landing in a modern mega-resort with their factory production line approach to pushing bodies through the machine… [wipes nostalgic tear],” one Norwegian ski convert enthused.

In truth, until the advent of fast French motorways and cheap package holidays to the Alps Norway was the top choice for British skiers back from the 1950s to early 1970s.  Then it lost ground partly due to those improved transport links to the Alps and partly as it was perceived to be too cold, dark and expensive.

Now it’s cheaper in most areas and even the horrors of the expensive alcohol don’t seem so dramatic after bigger price rises in much of the rest of Europe.  As for being too cold, that’s now the biggest selling point.

“It’s been interesting to see Norway ski holidays grow in popularity over the last year. Anecdotally, clients with young children and also beginners are telling us they’re choosing compact resorts there because they want the lower prices of Andorra/Bulgaria, but in a more snow-sure location. For more experienced, there’s a lot of lift-served off-piste and floodlit skiing is fun. More clients want other experiences in their ski trips, so our current ski deals with a free Fjord Cruise & Flam Railway excursion is seeing a lot of interest,” said Richard Sinclair of specialist ski holiday travel agency Sno.co.uk

Here Are 13 Top Norwegian Ski Resort Choices For Winter 25-26

Lillehammer

Lillehammer, host of the 1994 Winter Olympics, remains one of Norway’s most iconic winter destinations. Just two hours by direct train from Oslo, it’s easily accessible via the scenic Dovre Line, with frequent departures and seamless connections from the airport. The town blends Olympic legacy with alpine charm, offering access to multiple ski areas in the Gudbrandsdalen valley.

The Lillehammer Ski Region includes Hafjell (separate entry below), known for its Olympic-standard slopes and terrain parks; Sjusjøen and Nordseter, both cross-country havens with hundreds of kilometres of groomed trails; and Kvitfjell, a World Cup venue with steep descents and panoramic views. Together, they form a diverse playground for downhill, freestyle, and Nordic skiers.

Visitors can explore the Norwegian Olympic Museum, climb the iconic ski jump for sweeping views over Lake Mjøsa, or ski the legendary Birkebeiner trail. Accommodation ranges from central hotels to mountain lodges, and the town’s compact layout makes it easy to combine culture, sport, and relaxation.

Lillehammer is featured in tailor-made itineraries by operators like Sunvil and is ideal for rail-based ski holidays with trains direct from Osloi’s main airport. Whether you’re chasing powder or Olympic nostalgia, it’s a standout base for exploring Norway’s winter heartland.

Trysil

Norway’s largest ski resort, Trysil (above) offers 78km of slopes across three interconnected mountain faces, making it a dream for families, intermediates, and seasoned skiers alike. The resort features 31 lifts, three dedicated children’s areas, terrain parks, and over 100km of cross-country trails. Ski-in/ski-out accommodation is plentiful, with options ranging from luxury hotels to modern cabins. Trysil is known for its snow reliability, heated chairlifts, and wide, well-groomed pistes. UK operators like Ski Scandinavia and Crystal as well as travel agencies like Ski Solutions, SNO and IGLU highlight Trysil for its versatility and ease of access from Oslo. The resort also offers night skiing, après-ski venues, and a new gondola opening for the 2025/26 season.

Hemsedal

Often called the “Scandinavian Alps,” Hemsedal (above) boasts 51 slopes, 20 lifts, and skiing from three peaks over 1,000m. It’s a haven for freeriders and intermediates, with off-piste terrain, terrain parks, and a ski cross track. Families love the children’s area with conveyor belts and gentle slopes, while thrill-seekers head for the 6km top-to-bottom run. Ski-in/ski-out lodging and vibrant après-ski make it a well-rounded destination. Hemsedal is featured by Ski Scandinavia again as well as Ski Solutions, IGLU, and SNO, and is easily accessible from Oslo. The resort also offers guided backcountry tours, night skiing, and a long season from December to May.

Geilo

Geilo (above) is a charming mountain village with 46 slopes, 20 lifts, and a reputation for family-friendly skiing. The resort spans both sides of the valley, connected by a free ski bus, and offers terrain parks, ski kindergarten, and four children’s areas. Geilo is also a top destination for cross-country skiing, with over 500km of trails. Accommodation ranges from cozy cabins to spa hotels like Vestlia Resort. UK operators including Inghams, Crystal, SNO, IGLU and Ski Solutions promote Geilo for its relaxed vibe, Northern Lights potential, and gourmet dining. The resort also features night skiing, sunrise skiing, and a lively events calendar.

Myrkdalen

Western Norway’s largest ski resort, Myrkdalen is renowned for deep powder, uncrowded slopes, and a long season from November to May. It offers 22 runs, 9 lifts, and excellent off-piste terrain, plus two terrain parks and a dedicated children’s area. The ski-in/ski-out Myrkdalen Hotel is a modern base with restaurants and après-ski. UK operators like Inghams and Crystal and agents SNO and IGLU feature Myrkdalen for its fjord proximity, snow reliability, and family appeal. The resort also offers sledding, snowshoeing, and guided backcountry tours. It’s easily reached from Bergen and ideal for skiers seeking a quieter, more authentic experience.

Voss

Voss combines scenic fjord views with 24 varied slopes, 11 lifts, and a lively town atmosphere. It’s ideal for beginners and intermediates, with terrain parks, night skiing, and 18km of cross-country trails. The Voss Gondol connects the town centre to the slopes in under 9 minutes, making it one of Norway’s most accessible resorts. Accommodation includes self-catering cabins and hotels with ski-in/ski-out options. Inghams , Crystal as well as SNO , IGLU and Ski Solutions rate Voss for its cultural charm, adventure sports, and rail access from Bergen. The resort also offers après-ski, ski school, and a snow guarantee.

Beitostølen

A compact, snow-sure resort with gentle slopes and world-class cross-country trails, Beitostølen is perfect for families and beginners. It offers 21 runs, 9 lifts, and a relaxed village vibe with everything within walking distance. The resort also features a terrain park, sledding, and dog sledding. Accommodation includes hotels and cabins, with ski-in/ski-out options. IGLU, SNO and Ski Solutions recommend Beitostølen for its accessibility, short transfers from Oslo, and tranquil setting. The resort also offers night skiing, ski school, and a long season from November to May.

Gausta

Set beneath the iconic Gaustatoppen peak, Gausta offers 37 slopes, 13 lifts, and Norway’s quirkiest lift—the Gaustabanen, a mountain tunnel railway. It’s ideal for carving, off-piste, and scenic skiing, with terrain parks and family zones. Accommodation includes ski-in/ski-out hotels and cabins. Crystal, IGLU and Ski Solutions feature Gausta for its unique terrain, snow guarantee, and panoramic views. The resort also offers guided summit tours, snowshoeing, and après-ski in a floating sauna. It’s accessible from Oslo and known for its blend of adventure and relaxation.

Hafjell

An Olympic-standard resort with 50km of slopes, 18 lifts, and world-class terrain parks, Hafjell is great for intermediates and families. It features three children’s areas, night skiing, and a gondola linking the base to the mountain. Accommodation includes ski-in/ski-out cabins and hotels. Ski Solutions and IGLU highlight Hafjell for its variety, snow reliability, and proximity to Lillehammer. The resort also offers ski school, après-ski, and cross-country trails. It’s one of Norway’s most accessible resorts, just two hours from Oslo.

Hovden

Southern Norway’s biggest resort features 42.5km of slopes, 9 lifts, and one of the country’s best terrain parks. It’s ideal for families, freestyle fans, and intermediates, with night skiing, ski cross, and a dedicated children’s area. Accommodation includes ski-in/ski-out lodges and hotels. Ski Solutions recommend Hovden for its charm, snow record, and après-ski scene. The resort also offers cross-country trails, ski school, and a long season from November to April.

Narvik

Northern Norway’s largest resort, Narvikfjellet ski area above Narvik offers dramatic views, lift-accessed freeride terrain, and a season stretching from polar night to midnight sun. It features 16 slopes, 6 lifts, and a modern gondola, plus terrain parks and guided off-piste tours. Accommodation includes glass cabins for Northern lights views and a new apartment hotel. The resort was unexpectedly awarded the Alpine Skiing World Championships in 2029 and is now embarked on a big spend to dramatically increase its ski area. Inghams recently added Narvik to its programme, praising its snow reliability and bucket-list appeal. IGLU also offer holidays here. The resort also offers ski school, après-ski, and Northern Lights viewing. It’s accessible via Harstad/Narvik Airport and ideal for adventurous skiers.

Norefjell

Just 90 minutes from Oslo, Norefjell offers Norway’s greatest vertical drop—over 1,000 metres from summit to lake. With 30 runs, 15 lifts, and ski-in/ski-out lodging, it’s a versatile resort for families and thrill-seekers alike. Beginners enjoy gentle slopes near the base, while advanced skiers tackle steep black trails and off-piste terrain. The award-winning Ski & Spa hotel adds luxury, with climbing walls, pools, and panoramic views. Cross-country trails and sleigh rides round out the alpine experience. Norefjell’s proximity to Oslo makes it ideal for short breaks, without sacrificing mountain scale or scenery.  IGLU offer holidays here.

Oslo Winterpark

Just 30 minutes from downtown Oslo, Winterpark (Tryvann) is the capital’s go-to alpine escape. With 18 slopes, 11 lifts, and floodlit night skiing five days a week, it’s a compact but lively resort. The terrain park and halfpipe attract freestyle riders, while families appreciate the beginner zones and easy access via metro. Wyllerloypa, the longest run, drops 381 metres over 1.5 km. Snowmaking ensures reliable conditions from December to April. Oslo Winterpark blends urban convenience with genuine mountain fun—perfect for locals, weekenders, or visitors combining city culture with slope time.  IGLU also offer holidays here.