Day hike from the hotel
Gaustatoppen 1,883 m
Norway's most beautiful mountain, one hour by car from Rauland Høgfjellshotell.
On a clear day you can see one sixth of mainland Norway from the summit of Gaustatoppen — an unusually wide panorama for a peak you can reach on an ordinary day hike.
Rauland Høgfjellshotell sits at 1,000 metres above sea level, roughly an hour's drive from the trailhead. Start after breakfast, be back for the pool in the afternoon and dinner at Restaurant Falkeriset in the evening.
The route in short
The normal route starts at the Stavsro car park and climbs about 620 metres to the summit. It is marked, non-technical and popular — but the last stretch is steep and rocky, so proper footwear matters more than fitness.
- —Drive from the hotel to Stavsro car park — about 1 hour.
- —Walk up the marked normal route — 2–3 hours.
- —Summit: stone tower, views and the staffed tourist cabin in season.
- —Same route back down — 1.5–2 hours.
Walk or take the funicular
If you prefer not to hike, the Gaustabanen funicular runs inside the mountain from the Gausta side and brings you close to the summit. It is a good option in poor weather or with small children — reserve your time slot in advance during summer and holidays.
Best time of day and year
June to October is the main walking season; snow can linger into early summer and return in October. Start before 10:00 to have the light with you and avoid the busiest hours, and never begin the ascent after 13:00.
Mountain weather changes fast. Check yr.no the same morning and turn back if visibility drops — the summit will still be there tomorrow.
Key facts
- Elevation
- 1,883 m above sea level
- Return time
- 3–5 hours
- Ascent
- About 620 vertical metres from Stavsro
- Trailhead
- Stavsro car park
- Difficulty
- Moderate — suitable for most walkers
- Distance from the hotel
- About 1 hour by car
- Season
- June–October (summer road open)
- Cost
- Free to hike; funicular ticket is separate
What to bring
- Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes
- Windproof jacket and a warm mid-layer
- Packed lunch and 1.5 litres of water
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Offline map (UT.no) and a charged phone
- Small first aid kit
Frequently asked questions
How high is Gaustatoppen?
1,883 metres above sea level — the highest peak in Telemark.
How long does the hike take?
3–5 hours return from the Stavsro car park: roughly 2–3 hours up and 1.5–2 hours down.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, from around 8 years old with normal walking experience. The final section is steep but not technical.
Where do I park?
At Stavsro car park, about one hour by car from Rauland Høgfjellshotell.
Do I need a guide?
No. The normal route is marked and easy to follow in good weather. Always check the forecast at yr.no before you leave.
Is there a cable car?
Yes — the Gaustabanen funicular runs inside the mountain and is an alternative to walking. Book your ride in advance in high season.
Which hotel is closest to Gaustatoppen?
Rauland Høgfjellshotell, about one hour by car, with free indoor pool and dinner after your hike.
Stay at the basecamp
Rauland Høgfjellshotell is the closest mountain hotel — indoor pool, breakfast buffet and dinner at Restaurant Falkeriset after your day outside.