This riverside town is popular with whitewater rafters and also serves as a portal to the expansive protected spaces of Rondane National Park.
When you see where Otta is positioned, right at the corner of the Otta and Lågen rivers, it quickly makes sense that it is such a popular whitewater rafting destination. Even if that isn’t your sport of choice, the surrounding countryside is beautiful, and the town makes an excellent base for exploring it. Most people come here to explore the wonderful Rondane National Park. Make sure you leave ample time to do this vast green space justice.
Start your visit at the Otta Tourist Information Centre, which is attached to the pretty yellow Otta Central Station. This is an excellent place to make plans for your visit to the national park. When you are ready, drive northeast from the information centre for around 30 minutes and you will hit the park.
This sprawling conservation area is covered in heather and other plants, with different colours emerging across the landscape at different times of year. Pick a mountain to explore and start walking. The tallest peak here is Rondeslottet, which stands 7,146 feet (2,178 metres) above sea level. Even its lower reaches offer beautiful views. Another spot known for its striking vistas is Atnsjøen Lake, which has a famous viewing point.
If hiking isn’t your favourite way of getting around, consider some of the other options for exploring the park. Rent a kayak or raft and take to the water or saddle up for a horseback ride. Off-road bikers will also find that suitable trails extend all over the park.
Make the most of your visit to the park by staying overnight in one of its welcoming lodges. Order hearty traditional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Expect to eat moose, reindeer and plenty of fish.
Take the direct train from Oslo to Otta to reach your destination within as little as 3 hours 30 minutes. Driving will take slightly longer, but still under 4 hours. Both the train route and the roads are very scenic, often running alongside rivers and lakes.
