Have you started planning this summer's cabin to cabin adventure? Here are five wonderful suggestions, whether you are looking for long days in the high mountains, tranquil forest trails, vast mountain plateaus, or wilderness close to the city. Or how about a paddling trip between DNT cabins in Southern Norway?
Between Glaciers and Peaks in Breheimen
Sota Sæter is a beautiful cabin in Breheimen.
ota Sæter is a beautiful lodge located in the heart of Breheimen. If you want to experience dramatic mountains, deep valleys, glaciers, and peaks, without the crowds, Breheimen is the place to go. This trek follows the first section of the famous long-distance trail Massiv.
Tip: You can make the trek easier by hiring a glacier guide across the Fortundalsbreen glacier, rather than following the rugged path along Lake Illvatnet.
The journey begins at Sota Sæter ,located in the lush Bråtådalen valley in Skjåk. You won't be entirely alone here, as many are drawn to this historic DNT lodge, surrounded by cascading waterfalls, towering mountains, and ancient pines. However, as soon as you head toward Nørdstedalseter the next day, moving up the valley side and past the majestic Tverrådalskyrkja peak, the crowds quickly thin out.
Nørdstedalseter is one of DNT’s smallest serviced cabins. The trail crosses rocky terrain, scree, and glaciers. On a clear day, you will be rewarded with breathtaking, endless views of the Jostedalsbreen glacier. Continuing toward Sognefjellshytta, you will experience a landscape of dramatic contrasts. If the weather permits, you can enjoy stunning views of the mighty Smørstabbmassiv and Fannaråken peaks in Jotunheimen.
Enjoying the view: Hiker exploring the stunning 'Triangle Trek' on Hinnøya.
With its short stages and relatively easy terrain, the Triangle Trek on Hinnøya is perfect for those who prefer shorter hikes, making it ideal for families with children.
The Triangle Trek is a 3-day loop trail covering approximately 25 kilometers, with daily stages ranging from 7 to 10 kilometers. The trek begins and ends in Fiskefjorden, taking you between the DNT cabins Toralfsbu and Haakonsbu.
Rated as a moderate hike, it is highly recommended for anyone wanting to try a cabin-to-cabin trek for the first time. The shorter daily distances leave plenty of time for breaks and enjoying the journey along the way, while experiencing a varied landscape of mountains, lakes, and beautiful views.
Urban Wilderness in Østmarka
Røyrivannskoia and Stallen are idyllically located in Østmarka. The cabins can also be reached by canoe from Losby. Photo: Marius Dalseg Sætre
Explore the beautiful Østmarka forest and spend your nights in unstaffed cabins just a short distance from Oslo. This recommended three-day trek starts at Bysetermåsan and takes you into Øvresaga (3.5 km).
Øvresaga (3.5 km).
The old homestead at Øvresaga is an idyllic oasis surrounded by old pastures and lush forest. Remember to close the gate behind you, as farm animals graze right outside the cabin fence! The next day takes you through wild, hilly forest terrain to Bøvelstad.
On day three, you follow the historic Refugee Route (Flyktningeruta) back through lush spruce forests toward Luttjern. We highly recommend taking an unmarked side-path up the sunny, southern hillside to the top of Tonekollen along the way. From the summit, you get a spectacular view of long lakes, rolling hills, steep cliffs, and weathered pines.
The return route goes over Vesle Tonekollen and Pølseberget to Vangen, where you can wrap up your adventure by enjoying fresh, famous local baked goods with a view of the lake.
By Kayak Along the Southern Coast
A paddling trip on the southern coast of Norway is a beautiful experience. Photo: Marius Dalseg Sætre
How about swapping your hiking boots and backpack for a kayak and a paddle this summer? This round-trip takes you paddling from cabin to cabin through the Tvedestrand Fjord, Lyngør Fjord, and the surrounding archipelago. Along the route, you'll find countless idyllic islets, hidden coves, and sandy beaches to explore.
Start from Sagesund with a short, easy paddle to the island of Furøya were, you can stay at two beautiful, historic DNT properties: Forvalterboligen and Gjestehuset. he next stage takes you to Seilerhytta, located at the outer edge of the Oksefjord, which features excellent sandy beaches perfect for landing your kayak.
From there, you head out to the majestic Lyngør lighthouse , a slightly longer and more exposed stage. The final leg brings you from Lyngør through Snaresund, along the inside of Borøya, and safely back to Sagesund.
From High Mountains to Lush Valleys in Bergsdalen
The fairytale cabin Gullhorgabu is beautifully located in the heart of Bergsdalen. Photo: André Marton Pedersen
Join us on a trip over rocks, scree and soft paths surrounded by lush landscape and beautiful mountain lakes. The round trip in Bergsdalen from Hamlagrøosen to Lid is a 3-4 day trip with accommodation in DNT cabins in a very varied terrain.
Start from Hamlagrøosen in Bergsdalen and walk in easy terrain into Vending. The next day, the trip goes to Gullhorgabu which is a beautiful innovation of a cabin. This stage is in somewhat demanding terrain, so you have to spend the whole day here. Then the trip goes to Høgabu with a great view towards Trollaskardet to the southeast and Bukkafjellet behind down to Lid. On the last day, the trip goes down to Lid.
