5 Coolcation-Worthy Reasons to Visit Røros and Østerdalen in Norway

Breathe. Cool down. Feel the mountain air. Discover five reasons to take a coolcation to Røros and Østerdalen.

Here, you're free to relax, cool off, and breathe in the crisp, fresh air of the mountains – all while being surrounded by raw, untouched nature. Welcome to the ultimate coolcation in Norway. 

1. You're heading to the perfect place for a coolcation!

In our part of Norway – right in the heart of the country – the air is clean, the weather is stable, and the temperature is pleasently mild. We're inland, with the coast at a comfortable distance, so Røros and Østerdalen enjoy dry and steady weather year-round. 

The Glomma River, Norway's longest, winds its way through our region. You'll find vast areas of untouched wilderness where you might spot wild animals – and if you're lucky, even the ancient musk ox. This is also home to "The Big Nordic Five": moose, deer, reindeer, bear and roe deer. 

Seeing a moose in the wild is something truly special.

And summer here? Think golden light, gentle warmth, and maybe even heatwave status by our standards – over 20 degrees! When youre ready to really chill, head into Olavsgruva, a historic mine that stays at refrigerator temps year-round. Or just dive into one of our many mountain lakes! 

2. Swim in alpine lakes, relax in modern spas, or dip your toes in soft sand beaches.
 

Soft sand, cool water, and no crowds – Osmundsand by lake Osensjøen is the perfect mountain beach escape.

Yes, we have beaches! In the mountains! Røros and Østerdalen boast plenty of sandy shores where you can feel the sand between your toes without the chaos of crowded coastal resorts. The water is cool and refreshing – no need to fight for a spot. 

Take Osmundsand by Osensjøen lake: over a kilometre of soft, white beach that some claim is the best in Norway. You'll also find peaceful swimming spots like Gjettjønna, Storsandtjønna and Langtjønna in Os, and Prestsjøen where you can dive straight into the lake. 

Prefer a spa day? Treat yourself at Bergstaden Hotel & Spa, Røros Hotel or even cross the Swedish border to Fjällnäs. For something unique, try a wood-fired hot tub under the stars at Røros Arctic Dome. 

Explore all our splash-worthy places the region – cool, calm and totally Instagrammable. 

3. Take fresh-air adventures in postcard-perfect landscapes. 
 

Here, you won't sweat because of the heat – but because you're out enjoying nature.

Hike, bike or fish your way through forests and mountain trails without a crowd in sight. Sip ice cold water straight from the stream (as long as it's safe, of course – always check the local advice first).

The national parks of Forollhogna and Femundsmarka offer unspoiled wilderness and room to roam. Our mountain peaks are totally hikeable – no climbing ropes required. 

Want a bigger adventure? Try The Moose Trail, a cycling route from Rena to Røros, where you'll pass through old summer farms, moose tracks, and dreamy sunset viewpoints. STI offers guided trail biking in the mountains. 

At Savalen Horse Centre, you can saddle up and ride through nature like a fairytale character. Or unroll your yoga mat in a quiet forest glade for the ultimate zen moment. 

Feeling fancy? Play a round of mountain golf! Guests are welcome at both the 18-hole Sorknes Golf Club and the 9-hole course at Røros Golfpark – complete with sand bunkers made from the local desert-like dunes at Kvitsanda. 

If the weather turns chilly, head indoors to MiniMugg at Røros Hotel – a cosy indoor playland that's a hit with kids (and secretly great for grown-ups too). 

4. Sleep like a log in authentic, peaceful accommodations. 
 

Air conditioning? Nah, nature cools your room for free. Just crack a window and let the crisp mountain breeze lull you to sleep.

 From full-service hotels to charming local cabins, Røros and Østerdalen offer overnight stays with heart. Rent a traditional "stuggu" (mounatin cottage) and let time slow down. After a day outdoors, there's nothing better than crawling into bed in a cool quiet room. 

Wake up to birdsong and prepare breakfast with high quality local ingredients from the village shop – it doesn't get more "feel good" than that. 

5. Get chills (the good kind) from local culture.
 

The outdoor opera Opera Di Setra will warm your soul – no matter the weather. 

Røros and Østerdalen are alive with culture and traditions, from folk music and craftsmanship to festivals that stir both heart and body. 

Check out our event calendar and dive into everything from intimate concerts to historical performances under the open sky. 

Discover the whimsical world of Norwegian illustrator Kjell Aukrust at the Aukrust House – where moon rockets and Flåklypa magic await. 

Summer is full of exciting cultural happenings, including Opera di Setra, Olsok i Tolga, the dramatic Elden and Sandbeckdagene. 

Ready for a coolcation surrounded by fresh air, mountain magic, and unforgettable experiences?