Norway
Located in the Innlandet region, between Dombås and Åndalsnes, at the gateway to the Gudbrandsdalen and Romsdalen valleys, Bjorli is one of Norway’s best-kept mountain secrets. Renowned for its exceptional snow cover and particularly long season, it attracts families as well as freeride and cross-country skiing enthusiasts. Easily accessible via the Rauma railway line and the E136 road, Bjorli is also an excellent base from which to explore the spectacular landscapes of central Norway.
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The Bjorli ski area
Bjorli is one of the snowiest resorts in the country. Its ski area stretches from 575 to 1,238 metres above sea level, offering a vertical drop of nearly 660 metres, which is remarkable by Scandinavian standards. The resort has 11 alpine runs totalling nearly 20 kilometres of skiing, served by six ski lifts, including a particularly modern detachable six-seater chairlift.
The resort offers a range of slopes suitable for all levels, from beginners’ areas to more technical black runs. Skiers looking for a challenge particularly enjoy the long runs above the tree line, whilst powder enthusiasts will find plenty of off-piste routes accessible from the higher areas.
One of Bjorli’s great strengths is its reliable snow cover. Thanks to its continental climate and high altitude, the resort is regularly among the first in Norway to open its slopes in autumn and often extends its season until the end of April.
A paradise for cross-country skiing
Whilst Bjorli is a favourite with alpine skiers, the resort is also a leading destination for cross-country skiing in Norway. Cross-country enthusiasts can enjoy a network of up to 100 kilometres of groomed trails, winding through forests, high-altitude plateaus and mountainous landscapes.
From the village centre, you can access the Nordic trails directly, which lead into the vast wilderness areas of Reinheimen and Dovrefjell. This immediate immersion in nature is one of the main attractions of Bjorli for Norwegians themselves.
Sustainable development and the environment
Bjorli embodies a vision of mountain tourism based on simplicity and the preservation of the great outdoors. Unlike many heavily urbanised Alpine destinations, the resort has developed gradually around a small, intimate mountain village, maintaining a balance between tourist activities and the natural environment. This approach ensures that the authenticity of the landscapes for which the region is renowned is preserved to this day.
The resort also benefits from an exceptional setting, in the immediate vicinity of vast protected natural areas such as the Reinheimen and Dovrefjell National Parks. These areas provide a refuge for Norway’s iconic wildlife, including wild reindeer, elk, wolverines and the musk ox, the iconic species of Dovrefjell.
Another major advantage is that Bjorli is accessible by train. Connected to the spectacular Rauma railway line, the station promotes more sustainable travel by offering an alternative to private cars. This connection allows visitors to reach the mountains easily whilst enjoying a scenic journey considered one of the most beautiful in Scandinavia.
Finally, the local tourism economy relies heavily on outdoor activities enjoyed throughout the year. Downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, hiking, mountain biking and fishing are all part of a development model that makes the most of existing natural resources without requiring heavy infrastructure, thereby helping to preserve the wild and authentic character that sets Bjorli apart within the Norwegian mountains.
Must-do experiences in Bjorli
Explore the freeride routes in the Romsdalen mountains
Bjorli enjoys a solid reputation among off-piste skiers. From the highest parts of the ski area, there are several routes leading into open terrain offering spectacular views of the Romsdalen mountains. The region’s abundant snowfall often guarantees exceptional conditions throughout the winter.
Explore the Rauma Valley by panoramic train
The experience isn’t confined to the slopes. The Rauma railway line connects Bjorli to Åndalsnes, passing through some of Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes. Fjords, sheer cliffs, waterfalls and snow-capped peaks flash by outside the windows of this legendary train, which is regarded as one of the most beautiful rail journeys in Northern Europe.
Accommodation in Bjorli
Bjorliheimen Hotel
Located right next to the slopes, this historic establishment is one of the resort’s top choices. It appeals to travellers seeking a warm and welcoming atmosphere, local cuisine and easy access to both winter and summer activities.
Bjorli Mountain Lodges
This complex of chalets and apartments is a particularly popular choice among families and groups. Its location makes it easy to access the ski area whilst enjoying a complete immersion in the mountainous landscapes of Gudbrandsdalen.
Bjorli in summer
When the snow gives way to mountain pastures, Bjorli becomes a favourite destination for nature lovers. The region serves as a gateway to the Reinheimen and Dovrefjell National Parks, where the hiking opportunities seem endless.
Mountain bikers can enjoy a wide range of mountain trails, whilst fishing enthusiasts will find the surrounding rivers and lakes an exceptional playground. Horse riding, excursions into glacial valleys and wildlife spotting round off a particularly rich summer programme.
Thanks to its generally dry and pleasant climate, Bjorli is also popular as a cool retreat during the hottest summers in southern Europe.
The highlights of Bjorli
- One of Norway’s most reliable snow conditions.
- One of the longest winter seasons in the country.
- A remarkable elevation gain for Scandinavia.
- Over 80 km of cross-country ski trails.
- Excellent opportunities for freeriding and ski touring.
- An authentic atmosphere, far from the large, overcrowded resorts.
- Easy access by train via the famous Rauma line.
- A stunning location nestled between the Romsdalen, Reinheimen and Dovrefjell mountains.
- A destination that is just as appealing in winter as it is in summer.
