Winterwonderland Norway: Pure adventure and liberty

Winter camping with the HYMER B-MC T BlackLine and the HYMER ML-T CrossOver

A land of deep fjords, majestic mountains, untouched forests and sparkling northern lights - Norway offers incomparable experiences. With the HYMER B-Class ModernComfort T BlackLine and the HYMER ML-T CrossOver, Elisa and Ron once again set off for the winter wonderland that inspires with its wild beauty. From the charismatic charm of the coastal town of Bergen to the imposing Lofoten Islands, the trip offered countless adventures and endless freedom that only the camping life can create. 

They have recorded the best tips for winter camping and the most beautiful pitches in Norway for you. Immerse yourself in a fascinating natural spectacle with countless exciting activities.

Elisa and Ron 

Authors

Destination
Norway
Model
HYMER B-MC T BlackLine & HYMER ML-T CrossOver

Looking forward to Norway

For Elisa and Ron, the question of how to experience Norway in winter has a single answer: in a motorhome. Because no hotel can offer the views that you can experience from a HYMER when you're on your own.

However, if you take the plunge, you have to be prepared for anything to happen. Weather extremes and natural phenomena are often very close together here. After four winter trips to Norway in a motorhome, the pair know their way around so well that they are confident enough to be accompanied by their favorite people to show them this wonderful country. This time, the two have put together three travel teams, each of which will accompany them on a section of the journey.

They will be joined by other photographers, friends and even some of their family.

This year, Elisa and Ron are once again on the road with two top companions: the HYMER B-Class ModernComfort T BlackLine and the HYMER ML-T CrossOver. A duo that not only ensures comfort but also provides safety in snowstorms, icy roads, and rough terrain. Both vehicles are perfect for winter camping and each has its own unique strengths – but more on that later.

As Elisa and Ron are accompanied on their first leg of the journey by two photography-loving friends, the route over the next two weeks takes them to some of Norway's most photographed sights.

The journey begins with an amazingly smooth ferry ride from Hirtshals to Larvik.

Once there, the travelling companions enjoy a spectacular sunset. The sky is bathed in pastel colours and the drive to the first pitch already gives a foretaste of the weeks to come. After half an hour, they reach their destination: a clearing in the middle of the forest where they will spend the night in peace and quiet.

Cookie required

Please allow the marketing cookies to view this video

open Cookie Settings

The Preikestolen

The hike starts with one of the most famous landmarks. While thousands of tourists climb the hairpin bends to Preikestolen in summer, things are a little quieter in winter. You will probably never be completely alone on this hike, as the protruding rock attracts visitors from all over the world to the approximately 8 km long route, on which you cover 500 meters in altitude.

Even though Elisa and Ron have already been to Norway several times, their tour to the Preikestolen had to be cancelled again and again in recent years because the weather was never on their side. Today is a different story: The sun is shining brightly in the sky and there is hardly any wind. This is not the only reason why the hike immediately casts its spell. Although the many steps require a certain level of fitness, they are easy to manage. The ascent is rewarded by unique views that invite you to pause again and again to capture the most beautiful moments.

1 / 3

Once at the top, they share the Preikestolen with a crowd of brave tourists, some of whom stand dizzyingly close to the precipice. The steep rock, which towers over the fjord and descends at a 90-degree angle, is not for people with a fear of heights.

But even without posing on the plateau, the hike is worthwhile and, apart from the last few metres, should pose no problem even for people with a fear of heights.

Back at the car park, the four of them look forward to two comfortable and fully equipped bathrooms. Even though the temperatures are fresh, they have worked up quite a sweat. Their clothes are clammy and the hikers are glad to be able to hop under the warm shower in the car park. Thanks to the HYMER Connect app, the smart control system for ultimate independence, the vehicle has already been preheated while travelling and the water in the boiler has been brought to the perfect temperature.

Travel instead of reading?

Get to know the HYMER ML-T CrossOver or the HYMER B-MC T BlackLine now and start your own adventure today.

To the HYMER ML-T CrossOver  To the HYMER B-MC T BlackLine

Changeable weather and cosy evenings in the motorhome

The next few days are changeable. Wind, rain, hail and snow pass by again and again, prompting travellers to make themselves comfortable in their vehicles. The HYMER B-MC T BlackLine and the ML-T CrossOver not only look elegant and stylish, but are also characterised by excellent living comfort and efficient self-sufficiency. And so the time is used to recharge your batteries and really relax. This is also possible in a motorhome in bad weather, because when the rain is pattering on the roof and the wind is lulling you to sleep, a very special atmosphere is created in which the surrounding landscape seems even more mystical than usual ...

Basically, nobody had expected rain at this time of year. A mistake: as well as ski jackets, rain jackets would also have been appropriate for the last few days.

In view of how much more clothing and equipment you need in winter, the two vehicles with their many storage options are particularly suitable for such a tour. The large rear garages in particular offer plenty of space for clothing, shoes and sports equipment. There will certainly be room for the rain jacket next time.

The Borgund Stave Church

As the weather calms down, there is an opportunity to incorporate a little culture into the day's plans. Norway is not only known for its breathtaking nature and spectacular hikes - it is also a country full of history and fascinating architecture. One of the places where you can see this past is the Borgund Stave Church. 

Built around 1180, it is one of the oldest and best-preserved stave churches in Norway and an impressive example of Scandinavian wooden architecture. It was built without nails. Instead, the supporting pillars - the so-called staves - were skilfully mortised and wedged together. Of the original 1,000 stave churches, only 28 remain today. A visit to this church takes you back in time and gives you an insight into the life and culture of medieval Norway. 

1 / 3

Thanks to the low season, Elisa and Ron are completely alone here with their companions. What they didn't realise, however, was that the church is unfortunately closed in winter! But the visit was worth it just for the journey along the spectacular scenic route and the view from the outside, combined with a short photo session.

Tip: Be sure to look out for signs that indicate places of interest or lead you along scenic routes. Elisa and Ron have already discovered the most scenic roads this way and have come across many a gem that they hadn't heard about in a travel guide.

 

In general, you can assume that many of the activities are closed in winter if you are not travelling in the big cities such as Oslo, Bergen or Trondheim. Museums, smaller visitor centres or seasonal boat trips, for example, are often closed. Instead, the roads are empty and offer views that are simply unique.

Many campsites are also not open during the winter. Fortunately, this is not a problem for the small group of travellers, as they are independent of infrastructure or external conditions thanks to the self-sufficiently equipped vehicles, including extensive equipment, and can stand free at any time and anywhere without any problems. Norway also has a very good supply and disposal system, which is easy to understand using the Park4Night app.

HYMER motorhomes offer outstanding living comfort, making it possible to spend several bad weather days in style and comfort in the vehicle.
Elisa
Author and photographer

First snowfalls and the right equipment

1 / 3

Cookie required

Please allow the marketing cookies to view this video

open Cookie Settings

Over the next few days, it finally gets colder and the rain turns into thick snowflakes. A thick blanket of snow quickly forms.

Snow chains are actually compulsory in Norway - unless you are traveling with the HYMER ML-T CrossOver. Because this vehicle knows almost no limits! Even without snow chains, its high-performance all-terrain tires effortlessly make their way through the deep masses of snow as if they were nothing more than a harmless puddle.
 

Tip: For all motorhomes with front-wheel drive and without all-terrain tires, the two have prepared a short video tutorial showing how to put on snow chains correctly. With a little practice, it's child's play. 

The fascination of Rondane National Park

The four friends spend the next few days in the unique nature of the Rondane National Park. On the way there, they greet the largest moose in the world, Storelgen. This impressive 10.3 meter high and 12 meter long stainless steel statue stands along Riksvei 3 near Bjøråa and reflects the Norwegian landscape with its shiny surface. 

The statue was not only created as a work of art, but is also intended to raise awareness among drivers, as serious accidents often occur in Norway due to wildlife crossings. Elisa and Ron have also experienced dicey situations with moose on the road on their trip and recommend driving slower than the speed limit, especially at dusk and in the dark!

1 / 3
In Rondane National Park, the small group finds one of the most beautiful sleeping spots of their trip. They spend several nights in this wonderful location.

Life in the winter wilderness

During the day, Elisa, Ron, and their team hike to frozen waterfalls and immerse themselves in a silent, glittering winter landscape. In the evenings, they sit together, build fires in front of their vehicles, and cook meals outdoors.

Even though it's hard for them to leave this magical place, the friends continue their journey north. Their journey doesn't last long, however, as an unexpected snowstorm makes it impossible for them to travel even a meter further.

So, in the early afternoon, they find themselves stranded at a Circle K gas station in a town just outside Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park. The group eats dinner at the gas station and finds shelter from the wind and snow among the huge trucks. This wasn't how they had imagined the evening, but that's part of the adventure.

Tip:

Elisa and Ron have the SKOTTI grill, optionally available for the HYMER ML-T CrossOver, with them. It even fits in a backpack. A true all-rounder that can be operated not only with gas but also with wood or charcoal, ensuring maximum flexibility for outdoor cooking. Thanks to its compact, lightweight design, it's ready for use in no time and stowed away just as quickly.

Tips from the truck driver

The next morning, Elisa and Ron meet the truck driver next to them. He has some valuable tips they hadn't heard before. Before he shares them, he casually says:

"You need a C1 driver's license for the HYMER ML-T CrossOver, right? Anyone who drives a truck should think like a truck driver and take advantage of the benefits they get.

  • Tip 1
    Many Norwegian rest stops have a small hut with heated water pipes where drivers can fill up their water tanks for free. This ensures that they can refill their water tanks even in very cold temperatures. Many of these refill stations also have convenient chemical disposal for the toilet.
  • Tip 2
    On the website vegvesen.no, you can see in real time which roads in Norway are open or closed—an absolute must for anyone who wants to travel safely. On vegvesen.no, Elisa and Ron discover that the road into the national park will be cleared in a few hours, allowing them to continue their journey.
  • Tip 3
    The app and website yr.no is considered the most reliable source of weather forecasts in Norway. Especially in winter conditions, knowing whether a route is passable or not is helpful. This can make all the difference in terms of safety.
1 / 3

Meanwhile, the ML-T CrossOver's spacious kitchen is put to the test again. Freshly baked waffles are served. Thanks to the built-in inverter, the blender and waffle iron are used for more than one trip.

Because more snow is forecast, the next day the group drives directly through the national park without stopping and continues their journey toward Trondheim.

Team change for the next stage

A change of scenery is imminent in Trondheim: the photography-loving friends are leaving, while the family of four is joining them. Before that, the HYMER B-MC T BlackLine, which served as their friends' home during the first leg, is thoroughly cleaned, the beds are made up, the black and gray water are drained, and the fresh water, AdBlue, and gas are refilled.

Elisa and Ron have also found a beautiful spot about 15 minutes outside of Trondheim near the airport by a lake – a real insider tip. The lake is crystal clear and a perfect place for ice bathing. This activity is rightly very popular in Norway, because after the brief pain of the cold water, you feel reborn.

Since their family is just as passionate about nature, the next leg of the journey takes them to the Lofoten Islands. Elisa and Ron already know several hikes here that are also doable in winter. This year is also said to be one of the best years to see the Northern Lights, and the Lofoten Islands are one of the best places in the world to do so.

Skepticism about winter camping

Her mother and aunt were initially very skeptical about winter camping, as they would probably describe themselves more as tropical vacationers. But thanks to their experience, Elisa and Ron were able to convince them that a HYMER offers warmth even in cold weather, and that they don't have to forgo comfort. After just a few days, they realized what a storage miracle the B-MC T BlackLine is.

Thanks to the intelligent spatial concept with a comfortable fold-down bed and generous storage options, even four people can easily live in the vehicle if the layout is appropriate.

Elisa and Ron are happy that the family embarked on this adventure and can experience Norway in winter. Many places in Norway suffer from tourist crowds in the summer, which is why it's a matter close to Elisa and Ron's heart to promote and support what is arguably the least popular travel season, but which they consider the most beautiful.

Crossing the Arctic Circle and winter hike

Their first major destination is the Arctic Circle. Here, they embark on an incredible hike through the icy landscape. They encounter a huge herd of reindeer and even spot eagles while hiking the Arctic Circle Center Loop—a hike they discovered on Komoot several years ago.

You should generally avoid winter hikes without the app, as without visible trails, it's very easy to stray from the path and, for example, fall through the ice.

1 / 3

The magical moment: Northern Lights in Lofoten

The very next day, they took the ferry from Bodo to Moskenes. Since the weather had unfortunately worsened somewhat, they used the days for social games and extensive cooking sessions. They occasionally checked the situation with a quick glance out the window, but the sky remained overcast and cloudy for days.

The family had long since given up hope of seeing the Northern Lights. But then, by chance, they spotted a greenish-shimmering hole in the clouds.

Cookie required

Please allow the marketing cookies to view this video

open Cookie Settings

Then the unbelievable happens: the sky opens up for 15 minutes – and before them dance the most powerful northern lights they have ever seen with the naked eye.

 

Tip:

Elisa and Ron usually rely on forecast apps like the Aurora app, which generally show fairly accurately when and where the aurora can be expected. However, if there are clouds in the sky, even the strongest aurora can't be seen.

 

Your favorite winter hikes

The next few days include two of Elisa and Ron's favorite hikes: Offersøykammen and Kvalvika Beach.

Since they've never hiked Kvalvika Beach in snow before, they're excited to see what awaits them today. Before setting off, they pack plenty of provisions and fill up their water bottles in the HYMER ML-T CrossOver.

Thanks to the standard HYMER clearliQ travel water filter, the adventurers didn't have to buy a single water bottle on their trip. This feature is definitely one of their favorites: It allows them to fill the fresh water tank without worry, and fresh, clean drinking water is available from the tap anytime, anywhere – without any lugging or stowing away.

Travel instead of reading?

Get to know the HYMER ML-T CrossOver or the HYMER B-MC T BlackLine now and start your own adventure today.

To the HYMER ML-T CrossOver  To the HYMER B-MC T BlackLine

Eine versteckte Hütte am Strand

The small hiking group sets off, mindful of every step. There's just enough snow to make it hard to see what you're walking on—but not enough to hike in snowshoes. Those who make it over the mountain reach a beach that can only be reached on foot or by boat. The turquoise water and snow right on the beach are framed by towering mountains—a view like something out of a painting.

 

They continue their hike down to the beach, as do two surfers who built a hut there years ago to spend the winter months. The hut is well hidden, and it takes a while to find it. Inside lies a hodgepodge of letters, sleeping mats, hiking boots, cutlery, and colorful junk. There's also a small, warming stove. Anyone who wants to can spend the night in the hut and discover the little adventures it offers. Before the sun slowly disappears, the hikers begin their return journey.

1 / 3

Last experiences in Lofoten

Time in Lofoten passes faster than they'd like. After visiting Nusfjord one day and Henningsvær the next, Elisa and Ron's time with their family is already drawing to a close.

Together, they enjoyed incredible views, went on fantastic hikes, and strolled through picturesque fishing villages. These beautiful moments will stay with them forever. But before Ron's sister and a friend can begin the final leg, they drive the long way back to Trondheim to pick them up. A very special tour is planned in just three days, and they absolutely want to make it on time.

Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella-National park:
On the trail of the musk oxen

Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park is known not only for its high mountain landscape, but above all for a very special species: the musk ox. This is the last place in Europe where these animals, which date back to the last Ice Age, live in the wild. Their thick wool protects them from the icy temperatures.

Since Elisa and Ron had never managed to spot the musk oxen in this vast national park on their previous trips, they decided to hire a guide this time. These experienced trackers know exactly where the animals are and how to approach them safely.

They meet their guide at a small train station nearby. He's already been walking for an hour and a half, using his binoculars to look for the animals from the road. He's spotted a small group of musk oxen about seven kilometers away. To avoid wasting any time, they set off immediately. First, they head deeper into the national park along a paved path, then cross-country through deep snow. The hike is strenuous, and it's almost a mystery how the guide manages to track down the animals.

But then – behind one of the many hills – something moves on the horizon. Soon, they spot the animals' hairs on the trees they've been brushing against, and they know: They're not far now.

 

They move forward almost silently in a tightly knit group. You should keep at least 200 meters away from the animals if you're alone. Although the oxen aren't aggressive by nature, if they feel threatened, they can run at speeds of up to 60 km/h. And one thing is certain: you don't want to get acquainted with the powerful horns of these powerful animals..

They slowly approach the group, consisting of a few males and a calf. The little animal is incredibly cute, yet much tougher than it looks. It should normally be with its mother, but there's no sign of her.

The males don't care for the young animal, but since it can feed on its own, the chances are good that it will survive the winter.

The group lingers as long as possible to observe the fascinating musk oxen, but as always, they're racing against the light and time. They must cover the kilometers they've trudged cross-country through the deep snow before sunset. And even though they would have loved to observe these extraordinary animals forever, it's time to head back. They take a few last photos of these mighty animals, which have already shared Dovrefjell National Park with mammoths, and then head back.

1 / 3

In the evening, Elisa, Ron, and their friends sit around the campfire, unable to fully process what they've experienced today. The tour, which costs between €90 and €150 per person depending on the guide, was truly a unique experience that they highly recommend to every visitor to the national park.

Storm in Oslo and spontaneous change of plans

Over the next few days, the group will continue toward Oslo. They plan to take the ferry to Denmark the next day. But things don't turn out as planned...

A storm is sweeping over the city, and with winds exceeding 90 km/h, no ferry is leaving.

This can happen more often in winter, so you should be flexible when traveling by ferry and plan a few buffer days.

Their return trip was postponed for two whole days, so they used the extra time to visit the Norwegian Folk Museum (Norsk Folkemuseum). The museum is one of the largest open-air museums in the world and offers a comprehensive insight into Norwegian cultural history. Located on the Bygdøy peninsula, the museum presents 160 historic buildings from various regions and eras of Norway.

Although they were there for several hours, they would have needed much more time to explore everything at their leisure. The Gol Stave Church in particular, as well as many other exhibits, left a lasting impression.

1 / 3

Norway says goodbye – and at its best!

The following afternoon, their ferry is finally scheduled to depart. They spend the night in a quiet sleeping spot, which, while not one of the most beautiful of the trip, serves its purpose.

 

The next morning they can't believe their eyes, because the sky shimmers in bright colors and they can hardly believe their luck.

What they see are nacreous clouds, an extremely rare phenomenon that only occurs in northern regions at temperatures of -78 degrees Celsius at an altitude of 15–30 km. For years, they have hoped to witness this natural phenomenon with their own eyes. Unlike the Northern Lights, the effect of the clouds is not enhanced in images and videos – they simply shimmer in the most vibrant colors, and that is magical..

Unfortunately, time is running out due to the ferry's return journey. But as if Norway were bidding them farewell, the clouds remain visible in the sky throughout the entire journey. For Elisa and Ron, this is further proof why even the most annoying events, such as canceled ferries or bad weather, should be viewed in a positive light – because sometimes they present an opportunity to experience something incredible.

Conclusion:

This winter trip through Norway was an impressive adventure that once again brought us closer to the fascinating beauty and diversity of the country. Thanks to the two HYMER vehicles, we were able to travel comfortably and safely even in adverse weather conditions and in remote areas. Generous storage space and efficient self-sufficiency make the vehicles ideal companions for winter exploration.

Norway in winter is an experience we highly recommend to every outdoor enthusiast and nature lover.

Zum HYMER ML-T CrossOver
Zum HYMER B-MC T BlackLine

The perfect HYMER for any adventure

You can experience stories like these with any HYMER.
In our model overview you are guaranteed to find a motorhome or a camper van that also goes with your travel plans.

To the motorhome models To the camper van models
Download brochures
Dealer search
Configurator
Newsletter

Models and Technology

Travel & Enjoy

Service

Company

Learn more about HYMER Original Parts & Accessories:
https://www.hymer-original-parts.com/en

Caravans in premium quality:
/eriba/de/en

Discover our travel portal:
https://www.freeontour.com/en

© 2025 Hymer GmbH & Co. KG