Experience the Magic of Norway: A Winter Wonderland Adventure
As I make long, sweeping turns down the slope, I think that winter in Norway might be the closest you can get to Narnia without a wardrobe.
Snow-covered pine trees line the pistes, the sky is an icy pale blue — and I half expect the White Witch to appear from behind the log cabins as I pass.
Sleigh Ride Through the Enchanted Village
For added Narnia factor in Norway, take a sleigh ride through the village and into the woods.
If raucous apres-ski parties are more your thing, there are plenty of those, too.
Skiing in Geilo: Perfect for Families and Beginners
Skiing in Geilo is perfect for families and beginners, with lots of long green and blue runs.
Back on the pistes the next morning, we head down the slope previously used for the Ski World Cup.
Chasing the Northern Lights
It is often easy to spot the Northern Lights here, with next to no light pollution and the sun setting at 4pm in the winter.
Staying Warm in Subzero Temperatures
The only thing missing is a topless James McAvoy standing under a lamppost as Mr Tumnus. But I think even a mythical faun would need a jacket on in this -16C weather.
I’m wearing two layers of thermals, the thickest ski socks I could find, a fleece, salopettes and gloves with extra liners.
If you are visiting with kids, then the family-focused resort also has tobogganing, bowling, and shuffleboard to keep kids entertained after a day on the slopes.
Cosy Retreats and Winter Delicacies
Covered in white-washed wood cladding, the building is reminiscent of old-world glamour, with cosy rooms filled with leather armchairs and roaring open fires.
For now, I am happily huddled inside, tucking into waffles topped with Norwegian brown cheese — a fudgey, gooey local delicacy which tastes surprisingly good on top of the sweet dough.
Practical Information for Your Trip
GETTING/STAYING THERE: Seven nights’ half-board at Dr Holms Hotel is from £893pp, based on two sharing and including flights from Gatwick and transfers on January 12, 2025. See crystalski.co.uk.
For winter 2024/25, Crystal has introduced a weekly charter flight from Manchester to Oslo. Central Recorderday flights on TUI Airways will commence on December 15, 2024 and will complement the existing Gatwick to Oslo route.
For info on skiing in Norway, see norwayhomeofskiing.com.