Attractions and Places To See around Gjende - Top 7
Best attractions and places to see around Gjende are centered around its distinctive emerald-green lake, nestled within Norway's Jotunheimen National Park. This region is characterized by dramatic mountainous surroundings, including peaks exceeding 2,000 meters, and the striking color of Gjende Lake, a result of glacial rock flour. It offers a combination of notable natural features and important cultural touchstones, serving as a hub for outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see around Gjende
- The most popular attractions is Gjendebu, a hut that provides an idyllic place to recharge on the shores of Lake Gjende. It is the oldest DNT cabin with traditional charm, offering a serene stopover for hikers.
- Another must-see spot is Gjendeheim Boat Dock, facilities that serve as a primary starting point for boat transfers across the lake. Visitors can take a boat from here to Memurubu or Gjendebu, facilitating various hiking routes.
- Visitors also love Memurubu ferry, facilities that enable a variety of shortcuts and tour options, providing practical flexibility for hikers. This ferry is essential for planning routes, such as completing one leg of the Besseggen hike by boat.
- Gjende is known for its natural features, DNT cabins, and iconic hiking trails. The area offers a mix of natural features, DNT cabins, and iconic hiking trails to see and explore.
- The attractions around Gjende are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 60 upvotes and 10 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Memurubu ferry
Highlight • Rest Area
You just have to know: the ferry goes only twice a day (sometimes 3 times in summer): in the morning and in the afternoon. The afternoon ferry leaves Memurubu around 5 pm. When you see the boat getting to Memurubu from above, you will have to run to catch it (at least I had to). Otherwise you will have another nice hike back to Gjendesheim along the shore ;)
So make sure to look at the time tables and always keep in mind: the hike always take longer than you think.
gjende.no/en/time-tables
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Gjendebu
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Alternatively, you can end your hike here. Two boats depart daily from Gjendebu across the lake to the Memurubu cabin and the landing stage in Gjendesheim, the starting point of the trail.
All information about the boat departures can be found here:
gjende.no/deutsch
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Besseggen Kiosk Gjendeosen
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Open every day during the high season, you will find a small grocery store as well as a snack offer. The staff can also inform you about the weather conditions of the park and the schedules of the ferry that runs on the lake.
It is also at the kiosk that you can pay for your tickets for the short-term car park located nearby.
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Gjendeheim Boat Dock
Highlight • Rest Area
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Gjendebu Ferry Terminal
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With the help of the ferry, buffers can be installed very well in multi-day tours. In addition, the more difficult stages along the Gjendesees (Bukkaelegret and Besseggen) can be avoided in bad weather.
When visiting the Besseggen, it is recommended that luggage be transported on board the ferry. The luggage is then parked under a waterproof tarpaulin at the destination. It worked smoothly for us and the Besseggen is definitely more fun without a heavy backpack!
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Tips from the Community
From here you can easily get to the other end of the lake and start your tours from there.
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Here you can take a boat across the lake in the morning.
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Here the boats start for the transfer to Memurubu or Gjendebu. Early in the morning when the lake is still calm you have fantastic pictures.
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The Gjendeosen Kiosk is a shop located on the easternmost shore of the large Gjende Lake. Open every day during the high season, you will find a small grocery store as well as a snack offer. The staff can also inform you about the weather conditions of the park and the schedules of the ferry that runs on the lake. It is also at the kiosk that you can pay for your tickets for the short-term car park located nearby.
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Please note the opening hours.
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More information about the ferry: https://www.gjende.no/de/praktische-info-und-preise/ With the help of the ferry, buffers can be installed very well in multi-day tours. In addition, the more difficult stages along the Gjendesees (Bukkaelegret and Besseggen) can be avoided in bad weather. When visiting the Besseggen, it is recommended that luggage be transported on board the ferry. The luggage is then parked under a waterproof tarpaulin at the destination. It worked smoothly for us and the Besseggen is definitely more fun without a heavy backpack!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular hiking trails around Gjende?
The most iconic hike is the Besseggen Ridge, offering spectacular panoramic views of the emerald-green Gjende Lake and the darker, cobalt-blue Lake Bessvatnet. Other notable trails include the Knutshøe Ridge, a quieter alternative with stunning views, and the Bukkelægret Trail. For a comprehensive list of routes, including difficult and easy options, explore the hiking guide for Gjende.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking options near Gjende?
Yes, while Gjende is known for challenging trails, there are easier options available. You can find several easy hikes, such as the Memurudalen Valley loop or routes around Gjendesheim. For more details, check out the easy hikes around Gjende guide. The Besseggen Kiosk Gjendeosen is also a family-friendly spot with amenities.
What is the best way to experience Gjende Lake?
Gjende Lake is best experienced by hiking along its shores or taking the ferry. The lake is famous for its striking emerald-green color, a result of glacial rock flour. The Gjendeheim Boat Dock and Memurubu ferry provide essential boat services, allowing you to combine hiking with scenic lake transfers, especially for routes like Besseggen. Kayaking and fishing are also popular activities on the lake.
Where can I find accommodation or places to rest around Gjende?
Several DNT (Norwegian Mountain Touring Association) cabins serve as key hubs for hikers. Gjendebu, located at the western end of the lake, is the oldest DNT cabin with traditional charm, offering a serene stopover. Other cabins like Memurubu and Gjendesheim are also available, providing places to rest and recharge.
What facilities are available at Gjendeosen?
Gjendeosen is a busy meeting point at the gateway to Jotunheimen National Park. Here, you'll find the Besseggen Kiosk Gjendeosen, which offers a small grocery store, snacks, and information on weather conditions and ferry schedules. It also provides parking facilities where you can pay for your tickets.
How does the ferry service work for hikers, especially for the Besseggen trail?
The ferry service on Gjende Lake is crucial for planning various hiking routes, particularly the Besseggen trail. You can take the ferry from Gjendeheim Boat Dock to Memurubu and hike back to Gjendesheim, or hike from Gjendesheim to Memurubu and take the ferry back. The Memurubu ferry also offers practical flexibility, including luggage transport, making the Besseggen hike more enjoyable without a heavy backpack. Be sure to check the time tables as ferries typically run a few times a day.
What is the best time of year to visit Gjende?
The best time to visit Gjende for hiking and outdoor activities is generally during the summer months (June to September) when the trails are clear of snow and the ferry service is fully operational. During winter, the area transforms into a popular destination for cross-country skiing and ski mountaineering.
Are there any cultural or historical points of interest around Gjende?
Gjende has a rich history and cultural significance. It has been featured in literature since the 18th century, notably in Henrik Ibsen's 'Peer Gynt.' The lake also gave its name to Jo Gjende, a famous outdoorsman. Nearby Sjodalen Valley is known for ancient catch tombs and the cabin of Jo Gjende, adding a historical dimension to the natural landscape.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Jotunheimen National Park near Gjende?
Jotunheimen National Park, where Gjende is located, provides a habitat for various wildlife. While specific sightings are never guaranteed, visitors might spot wild reindeer, which are historically significant to the area, as well as other mountain fauna typical of Norwegian national parks.
Can I go running on trails around Gjende?
Yes, there are several trails suitable for running around Gjende. Popular running routes include sections of the Besseggen Ridge and the Knutshøe Trail. These routes often feature challenging terrain and stunning views. You can find more detailed information and specific routes in the running trails guide for Gjende.
What makes Gjende Lake's color so unique?
Gjende Lake is renowned for its striking emerald-green color. This distinctive hue is a natural phenomenon caused by glacial rock flour, fine sediment discharged into the lake by the Muru river. This sediment reflects sunlight in a way that gives the water its vibrant, unique appearance, especially in contrast with other nearby lakes like Bessvatnet.
Most popular attractions around Gjende
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