Home›Norway›Flatbreen and Flatbrehytta Hike

Flatbreen and Flatbrehytta Hike

The Flatbreen and Flatbrehytta hike takes you to an altitude of over 1,000 meters into a spectacular landscape of fjords and monumental glaciers. The trails leads you to the Flatbrehytta mountain hut, a natural balcony overlooking Flatbreen, a glacier tongue of the colossal Jostedalsbreen, the largest ice cap in continental Europe.

The wonders don't end there, though. From the heights, you can also take in the Fjærland Valley and the Fjærlandsfjord, an arm of the Sognefjord—Europe's longest fjord. It's a concentration of raw nature and well-deserved superlatives!

Remarks

Best time of year to hike: From mid-June to September, on average. See the Norway FAQ for more details.

Parking: Paid parking is available at the trailhead (indicative cost NOK 80 in 2025).

Description and difficulties of the hike

The climb requires good physical condition, as there is more than 1,000 meters of elevation gain to reach the refuge. The trail has several steep slopes, especially on the way up if you opt for a clockwise loop. After Flatbrehytta, the moraine ridge trail may be daunting for hikers who are prone to vertigo. In this case, it is better to return by the same route.

Also, be careful when crossing fords, as their difficulty can vary greatly depending on the water flow and snow presence, especially early in the season. Follow the red markings carefully to find the safest passages.

The trail is marked at intersections and technical passages, mainly fords, so it should not add any additional difficulty to the hike.

What you'll love

An immersive experience close to the Flatbreen glacier: From the moraine near the refuge, observing the glacier just a few dozen meters away is an unforgettable experience.
A peaceful atmosphere: This uncrowded hike allows you to immerse yourself in the silence and authenticity of Norwegian nature.