Gausta Ski Resort

Gausta is a hidden gem resort set in Telemark, a region of Norway known as the birthplace of modern skiing. Perched at 960m, with skiing up to 1,880m, Gausta enjoys reliable snowfall and fantastic skiing conditions throughout the season. Dominating the landscape, Gaustatoppen Mountain rises high above the frozen lake, with the ski area wrapping around it, offering breathtaking views. 

Travel to the heights via a funicular that transports you directly into the mountain, passing through a former military base used by NATO during the Cold War. The resort itself is picturesque, scattered with wooden cabins, pine forests, and an icy lake that creates a truly magical Scandinavian setting for a ski holiday. 

Gausta sits above Rjukan, a town steeped in history due to the WWII sabotage of a nearby heavy water factory, an event commemorated in a local museum easily accessible from the resort. This historic moment was later depicted in the 1963 film The Heroes of Telemark, which was filmed in the area. A local hotel owner even served as a stunt double during the production. 

Gausta is a well-rounded resort for both avid and beginner skiers. The main ski area consists of three peaks: Fjellheisen, Skipsfjell, and Vatnedalheisen. The piste map doesn’t do the area justice, as each peak offers something unique. Thanks to the resort’s convenient lift systems and well-maintained pistes, all peaks are easily accessible. Gausta is quickly becoming a Ski Solutions staff favourite. 

Gausta Transfer Time
Oslo
Map Marker 3h 15m

Best For...

  • All abilities
  • Stunning scenery
  • Superb restaurants

Resort Statistics

  • Resort Altitude 960m
  • Skiing Altitude 1,883m
  • Total Ski Area 35
  • Lifts 12
  • Blue Runs 50%
  • Red Runs 40%
  • Black Runs 10%

Ski Accommodation in Gausta, Norway

Our collection of Gausta ski accommodation has been hand-picked by our ski experts. Whether you’re looking for a luxury escape, a boutique hotel or something suitable for the whole family, our experts would be delighted to help you find the perfect accommodation for your ski holiday.

Gausta Ski Accommodation
Gausta Ski Areas

Ski Areas in Gausta

Gausta boasts 35 glorious pistes across varied terrain, offering exceptional skiing across its three different peaks. Courtesy of the resort’s high altitude, visitors can enjoy marvellous ski conditions for much of the season. Well-positioned lifts are peppered around the resort, making it easy for skiers to explore this wonderful resort in its entirety. The slopes are expertly maintained and offer ample skiing for all abilities.

Gausta Skiing

Skiing in Gausta

Skiing in Gausta is magnificent, skiers are spoilt for choice, with a range of slopes accompanied by impressive views of the Gaustatoppen Mountain. Gausta is a great place for those still finding their ski legs. There is a gentle nursery area with varied terrain for a rounded learning experience. To level up, there are some spacious green runs just a drag lift away.

Intermediate skiers will feel at home in Gausta, with an enviable selection of well-groomed red slopes, each boasting expansive views of the surrounding valley. For those more experienced or those looking for a challenge, there are some daring black runs and exciting off-piste areas to explore, especially on the route down from Gaustatoppen Mountain.

Gausta Snowboarding

Snowboarding in Gausta

Gausta is proudly home to two snow parks, equipped with jumps, rails, and boxes, perfect for avid snowboarders who want to practice their tricks.

Gausta Ski School

Ski Schools in Gausta

With many ski schools and instructors to choose between, there really is something for everybody.

Book your ski lessons with our recommended suppliers. If you’re traveling during a peak week be sure to book these well in advance.

Top Ski Runs

Telemarksvingen
A long and cruisy green run with magnificent mountain views. Perfect for those finding their ski legs.


Sondreløypa
A challenging but rewarding red slope which is kept immaculately groomed for a smooth ski experience.


Svart’n
One of the resort’s longest and most vertical black slopes with plenty of opportunities for off-piste adventures.

Gausta Apres Ski

Après Ski in Gausta

Loftet Afterski is a popular slopeside venue, drawing in skiers for a lively post ski tipple with live music and classic mountain drinks. Located at the bottom of the slopes, Den Lykkelige Sportsmann is a popular spot to gather after the last run of the day, serving good quality pub food and a range of drinks.

Gausta Restaurants

Restaurants in Gausta

There are some wonderful dining spots peppered around Gausta. Head to the mountain restaurant, Stova, for hearty pizzas, grills, and its famous Fondue Friday. Gausta Grillhuts are the perfect slopeside pit stop, serving warming food to hungry skiers on their mountain descent. Blikk Fjellbrasserie is the main restaurant in the resort, with a tasty à la carte menu serving Norwegian favourites, crafted from local and seasonal ingredients.

Gausta Non-Skiers

Non-Skiers

There is an abundance of winter experiences away from the slopes. Relax in true Scandinavian style at one of the resort’s floating saunas. Sizzle inside a traditional wooden sauna, before dipping into an ice-cold lake outside. For the ultimate mountain experience, take a train ride through the inside of the mountain and arrive at the summit of Gaustatoppen. If you are looking for a unique winter activity to try out, head to the world-famous frozen waterfalls for some thrilling ice climbing.

Map of Gausta

We Can Tailor-Make a Holiday to Suit You...

We have a team of experts on hand to help you choose the perfect holiday. From a luxury ski weekend in Val d’Isère to a big adventure in the Rockies, we’re whatever you want your holiday to be.