As the world slowly re-opens post-pandemic, the desire to discover new lands and experiences is at an all-time high. Our travel series seeks to inspire you with unique travel options and itineraries worldwide, spanning the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, and beyond. Join us as we explore mountain cottage getaways in Norway.

During the months of September, October and November, the days get shorter, the air crisper, the food richer and the colours more dazzling. The Norwegian autumn equals a wide range of temperatures and weather types. Summery vibes may last well into October, while the rain sometimes turns into snow in early November. A sure sign that autumn is here is when the trees and heath turn yellow and red and the leaves start falling off the trees.

The splendid colours mean that nature is at its most dazzling in autumn. The mountain areas are especially beautiful this time of the year and many Norwegians go hiking or biking in the mountains with their family during the annual school holiday in October.

The autumn season is also a time for gathering together inside with hot chocolate and lit candles. The feeling of "kos" - the kind of instant happiness you get when you feel safe, warm, and good together - is very important when the days get shorter and cold rain drums against the window.

Another important aspect of the season: It's harvesting time. The Norwegian food culture takes some subtle turns this time of year, favouring local ingredients and slow-cooked and rich dishes suited for a chillier climate. if you are looking for a getaway high in the mountains where you can unplug and take a break from city life, this is the best season to do it, and we’ve compiled a list of cozy accommodations.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN NORWAY

To get away from it all, you need to head high up in the Norwegian mountains - where you can experience the splendour of Norwegian autumn, exciting adventures, food, people, culture, architecture, history and welcoming hosts.

*Skaabu Fjellhotell Photo: Skaabu Fjellhotell*

Skåbu Mountain Hotel. Jotunheimen

Skåbu Mountain Hotel is a family-run hotel in the centre of Skåbu - a hospitable and authentic small mountain village at the steps of the beautiful Jotunheimen National Park. The area is rich in Norse history and local culture.

The majestic mountains offer a wide range of activities all year-round, and in autumn hiking, biking, rafting, mushroom picking, hunting, and fishing, either on their own or with local guides.

The hotel's kitchen emphasizes the taste of the Norwegian mountains and local produce with the purest and natural ingredients. The brand new hotel re-opened in 2018 with 12 double rooms and 5 apartments. Every fall Skåbu organizes their own marathon and half marathon.

*Steinbergdalshytta. Photo: Steinbergdalshytta*

Steinbergdalshytta, Aurland

Steinbergdalshytta is a traditional Norwegian "turisthytte" (tourist lodge) with a long history of being a place for hikers and other guests to seek warm refuge from the outdoor elements.

The cabin was built in 1895. The location was selected because of high foot traffic, and the area’s abundance of foods like fish, meat and dairy products. Today there are approximately 50 beds in the main building, the annex, the barn and two smaller cabins.

All year-round, the surrounding nature offers spectacular adventures and experiences, such as fishing, hiking, trail running, but also cooking classes and cheese tasting.

Bjerkeløkkja, Oppdal

History on the outside, modern inside. Bjerkeløkkja is perfect for those looking to host a private party, such as weddings, anniversaries or smaller events, but of course, regular travellers are also welcome.

The property offers accommodation in several charismatic buildings, varying from small houses with one double or single room, to larger houses with up to nine bedrooms. Bjerkeløkkja has 35 rooms in total, all with private bathrooms. Some of the oldest buildings date back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

The Oppdal region offers a large selection of exciting activities, and Bjerkeløkkja can tailor sightseeing programs for different types of adventurers. Some of the activities in the nearby area include hiking, rafting, canoeing, musk ox safaris, and beer tasting.

*Geilo Mountain Lodge. Photo: The Historic Hotels*

Geilo Mountain Lodge, Geilo

Geilo Mountain Lodge has a 104-year long history. The lodge started as a private residence, which in 1917 was turned into a guest house with 14 beds. In 2004 the owners decided to turn the property into an English-style accommodation with the goal of creating an atmosphere reminiscent of 1920s England, including hand-picked furniture, doors, fireplaces, crockery and textiles.

Today the lodge offers accommodation in 10 large double rooms and suites. The restaurant focuses on traditional Norwegian cuisine with a base in local produce such as birds, wild meat, fish, mushrooms and berries from the Hallingdalen highlands.

The hosts can assist visitors with a wide range of activities and excursions to some of Norway's most well-known attractions.

*Nature, history, culture and adventure meet at Elveseter Hotel. Photo: Grim Berge*

Elveseter, Bøverdalen

The old family farm estate Elveseter has received visitors since the 1870s. In the last century, the estate has been gradually transformed into a beautiful hotel with modern facilities. Throughout the years, guests from all social backgrounds - including kings and queens, heads of state and internationally acclaimed explorers have stayed at the hotel.

The hotel is situated in a side valley to Bøverdalen, which is considered the entrance to Jotunheimen National Park. This large mountainous region contains 29 of the highest mountains in Norway, and Elveseter is often used as starting point for hikes over the spectacular Besseggen.

In addition, the hotel offers horseback riding, caving, fishing, rafting as well as visits to the Climate Park, wine tasting and also a well-known art gallery.

Bortistu, Trollheimen

The Bortistu Guest Farm is situated in the heart of Trollheimen in the middle of Norway. The farm is rich in history, with the oldest building dating back to 1648. The first visitors to the farm came in 1887.

Since then, the building has been transformed into a modern accommodation and a restaurant offering a menu based on local produce. One of their specialties is Basstu - smoked leg of lamb, but courses vary with the seasons and availability of produce.

All accommodations are in well-equipped cabins where guests can make their own meals if they choose not to eat in the restaurant.

Bortistu offers year-round activities, and in autumn guests can enjoy activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. There is also a treatment center where guests can relax after a day of activities.

Hindsæter Hotel, Sjodalen

The first guest arriving at Hindsæter came in 1898. Hindsæter used to be an old summer farm dating as far back as the 1600s but has turned into a hotel with modern facilities set in historical surroundings. The hotel is situated along the scenic road over Valdresflya, at 950 metres above sea level, close to the Jotunheimen National Park.

Hindsæter is a relaxing getaway where visitors can enjoy excellent dinners in historical dining rooms and fresh mountain air on hiking trips. The hotel offers 10 "summer farm suites" and seven double rooms, all with private bathrooms.

The nature and cultural landscape have many hiking as well as biking trails both in the forests and on mountain plateaus.

A trip to Norway this winter staying at one of these cozy mountain cottages surrounded by nature seems like the perfect getaway. Far from the hustle and bustle of city life, you can take the opportunity to rejuvenate and refresh your mind.