Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Route 55, which runs between Lom and the Sognefjord to the south, is the
sightseeing spine of this region. From this main (and already scenic) drag, oth-
er roads spin upwards into the mountains—offering even better views and ex-
citing drives and hikes. Many of these get you up close to Norway's highest
mountain, Galdhøpiggen (8,100 feet). I've listed these attractions from north
to south, as you'll reach them driving from Lom to the Sognefjord; except for
the first, they all branch off from Route 55. Another great high-mountain ex-
perience nearby—the hike to the Nigard Glacier near Lustrafjord—is covered
Remember that the TI in Lom acts as a national park office, offering excel-
lent maps and advice for drivers and hikers—a stop here is obligatory if you're
planningajauntintothemountains (see“Orientation toLom,”earlier). Forloc-
Besseggen
This trail offers an incredible opportunity to walk between two lakes separated
by a narrow ridge and a 1,000-foot cliff. It's one of Norway's most beloved
hikes, which can make it crowded in the summer. To get to the trailhead,
drivers detour down Route 51 after Otta south to Maurvangen. Turn right to
Gjendesheim to park your car. From Gjendesheim, catch the boat to Memur-
ubu, where the path starts at the boat dock. Hike along the ridge—with a blue
lake (Bessvatnet) on one side and a green lake (Gjende) on the other—and
keep your balance. The six-hour trail loops back to Gjendesheim. Because the
boat runs sporadically, time your visit to catch one (120 kr for 20-minute ride,
3 morning departures daily, latest schedules at
www.gjende.no
, tel. 61 23 85
09). This is a thrilling but potentially hazardous hike, and it's a major detour:
Gjendesheim is about 1.5 hours and 50 miles from Lom.
