DNT Cabins with Canoe or Rowing Boat Rentals
Wild, beautiful, and wet, paddling is more popular than ever. While kayaking is a favorite choice for many, there are still plenty of adventurers who swear by the good old-fashioned canoe. At these cabins, you can rent a canoe and immerse yourself in stunning scenery at the same time.
Mjåvasshytta – A Log Cabin by the Water
By Lake Mjåvatnet in Austheiene, you will find Mjåvasshytta., a historic hunting cabin. Now operating as a DNT cabin, it sits beautifully on a small hill overlooking the water.
The lake is rich in fish, and at the water's edge, you will find canoes that are free to use for the cabin's guests. The surrounding area offers numerous hiking opportunities; many visitors choose to combine their stay with a trek up Gjevdenuten ($908\text{ m}$ above sea level) or over to the neighboring cabin, Hengeltjørnloftet.
Inside, the cabin has a cozy, homely feel featuring a large, beautiful fireplace, comfortable dining areas, and good beds. In 2016, an annex was added to accommodate four-legged family members.
Region: Setesdal-Austhei
Cabin: Mjåvasshytta
Service Level: Self-service (selvbetjent)
Capacity: 18 beds
Be Considerate of Wild Reindeer
The habitats of Norway's wild reindeer are under increasing pressure. Here is how you can show respect and stay attentive when hiking through wild reindeer territory.
Watch our video showcasing four cabins with canoe rentals (Norwegian video):
Røyrivannskoia
Another charming log cabin tucked away at the water's edge can be found in Østmarka. Located by Lake Røyrivann, Røyrivannskoia is a cabin rich in historical character. The old timber floating route in the Losbydalen valley used to run right across Røyrivann, and this cabin originally housed the local lumberjacks.
The cabin is beautifully situated just north of a nature reserve, offering fantastic views of the scenic lake. It is equipped with a gas burner for cooking, a wood stove for heating, and basic kitchen and washing utensils.
You can paddle your way directly to the cabin, and guests are also welcome to borrow a canoe kept at the cabin during the summer season.
Region: Oslomarka, Østmarka
Cabin: Røyrivannskoia
Service Level: No service (ubetjent - bring your own food)
Availability: Open all year
Capacity: 4 beds
Book your stay in advance
If you are planning a trip along the coast, please note that most coastal cabins must be booked in advance.
This applies to coastal cabins, but also to many popular unserviced cabins located in the forests close to urban areas. Because these cabins are easily accessible from where people live, they fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
How to Book:
You can easily plan your stay and reserve your beds online. For a complete step-by-step guide on how the system works, visit the DNT Cabin Booking Information Page.
Djupslia
If you exit the E6 highway just east of Tretten in Gudbrandsdalen, you will find the road leading up to Øyerfjellet. This is where Djupslia is located, one of the overnight stops along the historic Rondanestien trail, and the very first self-service cabin on the long-distance SAGA route.
Canoes complete with life jackets and oars are available for cabin guests down by Lake Djupen, situated just below the lodge. The lake provides excellent opportunities for fishing and a refreshing swim. A stay here opens up many hiking paths, and the region is also highly popular for mountain biking.
Region: Lillehammer-Rondane
Cabin: Djupslia
Service Level: Self-service (selvbetjent)
Capacity: 18 beds
Guidelines for Hiking in Wild Reindeer Territory
To help protect Norway’s wild reindeer populations, please follow these precautions:
- Stick to marked trails: Staying on the path reduces the overall human footprint in sensitive habitats.
- Stay still if you spot reindeer: If you encounter reindeer, stop and remain calm. Let the animals move away undisturbed.
- Use binoculars and keep your distance: Observe from afar. If the reindeer change their behavior because of you, you are too close.
- Stay low and mind the wind: Move in a way that keeps you low in the terrain. Try to stay downwind so the animals do not catch your scent.
- Keep your dog on a leash: Always follow local leashing regulations. A loose dog can cause severe stress or exhaustion for the herd.
Tyssenaustet
Stunning Landscapes: Tyssenaustet in the Sunnmøre Alps offers breathtaking views. (Photo: Line Hårklau)
Situated above Bjørke in the Hjørundfjord, you will find Tyssenaustet beautifully positioned by Lake Tyssevatnet. Surrounded by dramatic, jagged peaks, it offers a cabin experience and canoe trip that will truly take your breath away. The cabin is equipped with electric heating and everything you need to prepare a good meal. Tyssenaustet was fully restored in 2000/2001, giving the interior a unique architectural character.
The area boasts excellent hiking terrain. From the cabin steps, you can set out toward spectacular peaks like Høghornet, Hornindalsrokken, and Kvitegga.
In the boathouse right next to the cabin, a 14-foot aluminum boat and a canoe are at your disposal, and the lake is well-stocked with both Arctic char and trout.
Several cabins with canoe or rowing boat:
See also