Oppdal - Trondheim
- 10 days, self-guided -
OVERVIEW
After the death of King Olav in 1030 and his canonization, countless pilgrims travelled to the holy city of Nidaros to pray, give thanks, and seek forgiveness. After the Reformation, the pilgrimage routes fell into disrepair. In the 1980s, restoration began on these historic paths, the most important of which is the Olav Path, or Gudbrandsdalsleden, stretching from Oslo to Trondheim. Today, modern pilgrims follow this route for many reasons – to escape the hectic pace of daily life, to reflect, to seek physical or spiritual challenge, or simply to enjoy nature.
Whatever the motivation, this journey becomes much more than just a mountain hike or tourist trail. A self-guided hike to Trondheim. During this tour you walk from the town of Oppdal, through a beautiful cultural landscapes along the river Orkla, through forests and bogs to the city of Trondheim where the imposing Nidaros Cathedral stands. The shrine of Olav the Saint once stood in this church. Luggage transfer along the route is possible.
01. Travel day – Overnight in Oppdal
The hike from the train station to the accommodation is just a few hundred meters.
02. Oppdal – Havdal (ca. 27 km)
You leave Oppdal behind for a long hike and walk through gently rolling farmland and forest, surrounded by mountains. The route follows typical grusveier (gravel farm roads), interspersed with grass paths. There are frequent views across the wide valley.
03. Havdal – Stamnan (ca. 16 km)
You continue through the beautiful Orkla Valley. The river winds through a cultural landscape of scattered farms and pine-covered hills. After crossing the river at Skjepphaugen, you can choose between a steep path with wide views or an easier route along the riverbank.
04. Stamnan – Rennebu (ca. 14 km)
You walk through forest terrain to reach Rennebu. After a short stretch along road 700, the trail climbs into the hills again and passes several traditional trønderlån – typical long farmhouses from the Trøndelag region.
05. Rennebu – Meldal (ca. 18 km)
This scenic stage winds through quiet woodland, pastureland and along stretches of the Orkla River, combining natural beauty with local cultural heritage. The path is well-marked and moderately easy.
06. Meldal – Gumdalen (ca. 19 km)
A peaceful stage through classic Trøndelag countryside. You pass the historic mining village of Løkken Verk before reaching your farm accommodation in Gumdalen.
07. Gumdalen – Skaun (ca. 21 km)
After passing Lake Solsjøen and Korslia Farm, you reach a cosy pilgrim shelter known as "the living room" – a perfect rest stop. The route continues through quiet peatland, once used only in summer by pilgrims.
08. Skaun – Øysand (ca. 18 km)
The milestone in Skaun reminds you that only 38 km remain to Nidaros Cathedral. You first pass the historic farm of Husaby before walking through farmland toward the river Gaula and Øysand.
09. Øysand – Trondheim (ca. 24 km)
The final stage includes a short but steep climb before continuing through forest and then into Trondheim. Your pilgrimage ends at the majestic Nidaros Cathedral, the spiritual heart of Norway.
10. Travel day
Extra nights in Trondheim may be booked on request.
Summary
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Self-guided hike along the Olav Path, from Oppdal to Trondheim (Norway)
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Available from June to September and even October
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10 days, with an average of 19 kilometers per day.
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€ 1,035 (one person, single room)
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€ 1,990 (two persons, double room)
