As the UK’s leading ski tour operator to Norway, Ski Safari continues to develop and improve a programme first launched over 10 years ago. The latest addition is the up-and-coming resort of Gausta in the heart of Telemark, Norway.
Undiscovered by the UK market, and currently exclusively offered through Ski Safari, Gausta exemplifies Norwegian skiing with exceedingly high levels of service, superb ski-in ski-out accommodation, family-friendly facilities, terrain for all abilities and an excellent ski school.
But there are a few things that set it apart too…
Mighty Gaustatoppen at 1,883m: While the main three peaks of Gausta’s ski area feature 13 lifts and 45km of downhill slopes, the fourth peak, Gaustatoppen, stands alone a short transfer away. The largest mountain in Telemark and visible for miles around, Gaustatoppen offers astounding views, challenging skiing and a very unique approach.
After a short transfer to the base of the mountain, customers enter the Gaustabanen – a funicular railway which takes passengers 850 metres horizontally into the heart of the mountain and then up at an angle of 39 degrees for 1,045 metres, all within a tight tunnel. It all feels very ‘top secret’, and the feeling of being inside a James Bond film doesn’t end with the funicular either, as the peak of Gaustatoppen is home to a Cold War radio tower.
On a clear day, there are unrivalled panoramic views as far as Sweden and Denmark, and there’s a Tourist Cabin for warming up with some of the best waffles in Norway (definitely the best at 1,800 metres above sea level). Then the excitement begins again with a long, well-marked off-piste run back down to the base or even to the main ski area. With a gentle pitch, the main run is suitable for early intermediates and above, or non-skiers can take the Gaustabanen back down.
Expert skiers have access to some of the steepest and most challenging terrain in Norway, with couloirs to test the most experienced freeriders. Hiring a guide is highly recommended.
The hub of the resort is the 4* Gaustablikk Fjellresort hotel, named for the striking views of Gaustatoppen across the frozen lake below. Fully refurbished in 2021 with a modern and Scandinavian feel, Gaustablikk prides itself on the guest experience and there are plenty of touches which make a stay here feel particularly special.
PHOTO: Gausta Ski Resort
As well as a pool with steam room, sauna and jacuzzi, guests can also don their robes and venture down to the unique lakeside floating saunas. Two sides of each sauna are glass for floor-to-ceiling views across the frozen lake to Gaustatoppen, and a small section of the lake is kept unfrozen to allow brave sauna goers to take an icy dip to cool off.
The menus and concepts at the two restaurants in the Gaustablikk Fjellresort are created by Michelin-starred Swedish chef Melker Andersson while the bakery next door is led by an award-winning pastry chef who was previously on Sweden’s National Team. ‘Bakeriet’ is perfectly located next to the beginner area, ideal for enticing kids onto the slopes with the promise of a cinnamon bun, or for enjoying coffee and cake while watching them learn.
7 nights B&B at the 4* Gaustablikk Fjellresort from £995pp based on 2 adults sharing a Double Room, departing January 2024. Price includes return flights to Oslo and train and private transfers. (01273 224060, www.skisafari.com)
7 nights Half Board at the 4* Gaustablikk Fjellresort from £1,170pp based on 2 adults and 2 children (under 12) sharing a Junior Suite, departing Easter 2024. Price includes return flights to Oslo and train and private transfers. (01273 224060, www.skisafari.com)
7 nights self-catered at the 3* Lake View Cabins from £840pp based on 4 adults sharing a 3 Bedroom Cabin, departing January 2024. Price includes return flights to Oslo and train and private transfers. (01273 224060, www.skisafari.com)
7 nights self-catered at the 3* Lake View Cabins from £905pp based on 2 adults and 2 children (under 12) sharing a 3 Bedroom Cabin, departing April 2024. Price includes return flights to Oslo and train and private transfers. (01273 224060, www.skisafari.com)
PHOTOS: © Gausta Ski Resort
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