Gaustatoppen - the roof of Telemark
Gaustatoppen towers 1883 meters above sea level and is the highest mountain peak in Telemark. On a clear day, you can see about a sixth of Norway from the top - a spectacular view that makes the hike worth the effort.

There are several ways up, but the most commonly used route starts from the parking lot at Stavsro. From here you follow a clearly marked trail in rocky terrain, with a steady climb all the way up. The route is about 4.6 km long each way, and takes most people between 2 and 3 hours to reach the top.

One option is to start from Gaustabanen, which is located on the south side of the mountain. From here, you can walk the last 3.1 kilometers in steep and rocky terrain up to the top. This is a shorter but somewhat more demanding route.

For those who want an easier variant, you can take the Gaustabanen, a spectacular funicular inside the mountain, all the way up to near the top. Many people choose to take the cable car up and go down again - or vice versa - to combine a hiking experience with comfort.

At the top you'll find Gaustatoppen Turisthytte, which is open in season and offers simple dining and accommodation. Be sure to check the opening hours in advance.

Regardless of the route: Wear good hiking boots - the surface is rocky and can be demanding, especially in wet or snowy conditions. Dress for the weather and be prepared for rapid weather changes, even if it's summer.