Gjendesheim

Gjendesheim is a mountain lodge located in the Jotunheimen mountain range in Norway. Situated beside the picturesque Lake Gjende, it is a popular starting point for hiking and mountaineering in the region. The lodge is owned and operated by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT), a prominent organization dedicated to promoting outdoor activities and preserving Norway's natural landscapes.

The lodge offers accommodation in rooms and dormitories, as well as a restaurant serving traditional Norwegian fare. Gjendesheim is particularly well-known as the gateway to Besseggen, one of Norway's most famous and challenging hiking trails. The Besseggen ridge walk offers breathtaking views of Lake Gjende and Lake Bessvatnet, with their distinct colors separated by the narrow ridge.

Access to Gjendesheim is typically via a scenic boat trip across Lake Gjende from the village of Gjendebu, or by car and a short walk. The lodge is open during the summer hiking season, usually from late June to mid-September, attracting a diverse range of visitors from experienced hikers to families. Its location in the heart of Jotunheimen makes it an ideal base for exploring glaciers, peaks, and the wild beauty of the Norwegian mountains.