Geilo | Ski Resort Review

Geilo is a traditional and charming village set in a wide valley halfway between Bergen and Oslo, on the edge of Hardangervidda National Park - the largest mountain plateau in Northern Europe. Its big-sky scenery, frozen lakes and soft winter light give it a totally different feel from the Alps.

Despite its modest altitude (around 800m), Geilo is extremely snowsure thanks to its inland climate and consistent cold temperatures. While there’s terrain for all abilities, it is best suited to beginners, intermediates and families looking for a rounded winter holiday rather than high-octane, mileage-hungry skiing. It’s no surprise Geilo also features in our roundup of the best ski resorts for families, thanks to its easy-going terrain, friendly atmosphere and array of off-slope activities.

"Geilo is best suited to beginners, intermediates and families looking for a rounded winter holiday"

The ski season typically runs mid-November to early May, with impressively reliable snow. Conveniently, Geilo sits on the Oslo–Bergen railway, meaning car-free travel is easy - and scenic.

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Geilo – Ski Map & Pistes

Geilo has two separate ski areas on opposite sides of the valley - Slaatta and Geilolia - linked by a frequent ski bus. Together they offer 39 runs cut into the forested hillsides beneath the Hardangervidda plateau.

Beginners are spoilt with gentle nursery slopes, progressive greens/blues and a highly regarded English-speaking ski school. Intermediates enjoy the broad, confidence-boosting red runs from Geilohovda, Gullsteinhovda, and Biodnahovda, with beautiful views across the valley.

"Geilo is rarely busy so expect quiet slopes, soft snow, and zero lift queues"

Advanced skiers will find a handful of short black pistes and pockets of accessible off-piste. Geilo also punches above its weight for freestyle: the resort maintains five terrain parks, including Scandinavia’s largest halfpipe, making it popular with young riders.

For something unusual, head to the vast Hardangervidda plateau for kite-skiing, where the wind does the work.

Geilo is rarely busy - especially midweek - so expect quiet slopes, soft snow, and zero lift queues.

Geilo – Off-Piste, Ski Touring & Backcountry

Fresh snow transforms the entire resort: because Geilo is quiet, much of the mountain skis like off-piste for long stretches after a snowfall.

Notable areas include:

• Route 11, with accessible off-piste skiers’ right of the piste.

• The powder pockets skier’s right of the Havsdalshovda T-bar.

  

"Much of the mountain skis like off-piste for long stretches after a snowfall"

Beyond the main ski hills, the surrounding Hardangervidda plateau is a paradise for touring and cross-country. Norway’s famous long-distance trails start here, and conditions are among the most reliable in Europe.

Geilo – Restaurants, Bars & The Town

Away from the slopes, Geilo shines brightest. This is a true winter activity hub offering:

• Dog sledding

• Horse-drawn sleigh rides

• Snowshoeing

• Ice fishing

• Tobogganing

• The Geilo High Rope & Treetop Walk (open year-round)

• A vast network of cross-country trails — almost a national pastime in rural Norway

Apres-ski is lively at weekends but quieter during the week. Most dining, bars and cafés are on the Geilo town side, while Geilolia is more peaceful, centred around the ski base and the excellent Vestlia Resort, home to a huge spa.

"Food-wise, Geilo punches above its weight"

When the party does get going, Off-Pist and Recepten at the historic Dr Holms Hotel are your go-to venues for music and late-night fun.

Food-wise, Geilo punches above its weight.

• Hallingstuene — run by celebrity chef Frode Aga — serves beautifully crafted dishes using regional ingredients.

• Peppes Pizza offers easy, family-friendly classics.

• Dr Holms Bowl & Dine is great for kids and groups looking for relaxed fun.

Geilo – Ski Hire

Ski hire in Geilo is easy and well organised, with rental outlets on both sides of the valley. Geilo Skishop, based at the Dr Holms Hotel, remains a popular and reliable choice, while Havsdalen and Slaatta ski centres also offer full rental services, including skis, boards, boots and accessories.

With everything close at hand and the resort’s reputation for excellent service, getting kitted out is straightforward wherever you're staying.

Geilo – Ski School

Geilo has an excellent reputation for tuition, particularly for beginners and families. The Geilo Ski School provides a full range of group and private lessons, all with English-speaking instructors, and covers both the Slaatta and Geilolia sides of the resort.

Whether you're taking your first turns or looking to refine your technique, instruction here is friendly, professional and very accessible.