On the shores of the gorgeous Mjøsa lake, discover an area proud of its cultural and sporting history, rich with opportunities for outdoor fun.
The town and municipality of Gjøvik are known for all the best reasons: food, sports and outdoor activities, beautiful scenery and a rich heritage of culture and crafts. Gjøvik’s location on Mjøsa lake is straight from a postcard, and that natural beauty extends for miles around. Come here for a vacation every bit as packed with variety as the stunning landscapes that make up this region.
In 1994, Norway hosted the Olympic Games. Decades on, the legacy of this historic event can still be felt in Gjøvik. Get a sense of the sheer scale of the preparations at the Gjøvik Olympic Mountain Hall. This spectacular stadium is the biggest venue ever to be built inside a mountain, anywhere in the world.
Today the region’s sporting legacy lives on in the local enthusiasm for cross-country skiing, skating, hiking and biking. Get active by exploring the hundreds of miles of hiking trails and cross-country skiing routes that wind all over the area. In summer, don’t miss the chance to swim in the dazzlingly beautiful Mjøsa lake. A trip on the Skibladner paddle steamer, launched in 1856, is a less strenuous way to see this lovely body of water.
Make sure you sample some of the extraordinary local produce available in the area. Treat yourself at the chocolate factory or undertake a tour of the traditional Mjøsgårdene farms that thrive locally. Enjoy a warm welcome here as you are served homemade dishes prepared with ingredients grown on site.
Another local specialty, though not an edible one, is glass. Pick up some souvenirs at the Hadeland Glassworks at the same time as gaining insight into a fascinating craft. Other attractions worth a visit include the Mjøsmuseet, a museum of local culture, and the Veien Kulturminnepark (Veien Cultural Heritage Park), where exhibits include four ancient longhouses.
The drive from Oslo to Gjøvik takes less than 2 hours. Choose the eastern route to experience incredible views on a section of the road that runs alongside the Mjøsa lake.
