Discovering Voss: Why Skiing in Norway Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List

For years, I believed Norwegian skiing wasn’t for me. I’d glance at a piste map, see the relatively low altitudes of the resorts, and dismiss them in favour of the towering peaks of the Alps. Take Voss, for example, perched at just 54 meters above sea level, it’s only slightly higher than my hometown of Beckenham in South London.

How wrong I was!

It took me 30 years to finally experience skiing in Norway, and now I can’t believe I waited so long. I’ve just returned from an unforgettable trip to Voss and the nearby resort of Myrkdalen, both covered by the same lift pass. With 72km of pistes, 20 lifts, and 48 slopes, there’s already plenty to explore. But what truly sets it apart is the accessible off-piste terrain, seamlessly weaving between the runs, adding an exciting new dimension to the experience.

Skiing in Norway: It’s All About Latitude, Not Altitude

Unlike the Alps, where altitude determines snow conditions, Norway’s skiing thrives thanks to its northern latitude. Up here, snowfall is practically guaranteed in winter, and as I discovered firsthand in late April, the snow conditions were still fantastic. The sheer variety of terrain makes it feel anything but limited, whether you’re carving groomed runs or venturing into fresh powder.

The Secret’s Getting Out: British Skiers Are Catching On

I wasn’t the only one having a skiing epiphany in Norway. British skiers are beginning to take notice of Voss in a big way. In January 2023, only 420 UK skiers visited Voss, but by January 2024, that number had surged by an incredible 480%, according to Brede Abbedissen, sales manager for the local ski lift company. And the momentum is only growing.

A Game-Changer for British Visitors: New Direct Flights

One of the biggest barriers for British skiers considering Norway has been accessibility, but that’s about to change. A new charter flight between London Gatwick and Bergen is launching for the 2025/26 season, running from December 21, 2025, to March 1, 2026. Brede believes this will be a game-changer, predicting a huge increase in UK visitors. The news was even front-page material for the local newspaper in Voss, a testament to the impact this will have on the region’s tourism.

Voss: A Small Town with Olympic Pedigree

Voss isn’t just any ski resort, it’s a town steeped in winter sports history. Norway holds the record for the most Winter Olympic medals in history, and Voss itself has more medals per capita than anywhere else in the world. Skiing isn’t just a pastime here; it’s a way of life. Even schoolchildren in Voss spend two days a week on the slopes as part of their education.

One evening, while enjoying a drink at a cosy gin bar, local skier Geir Bottolfs casually pointed out that two separate tables were occupied by Olympic gold medallists. Geir himself has competed in the X Games in ski cross, further proving that in Voss, elite-level skiers are never far away.

Who Should Ski in Voss?

In our group, we had skiers and snowboarders of all levels, including beginners, and everyone had an incredible time. However, I’d especially recommend Norway for families looking for a relaxed, crowd-free skiing experience. The locals tend to ski only on weekends, and even then, primarily after fresh snowfall. This means midweek skiing feels wonderfully peaceful, with wide-open runs and plenty of space to explore.

If you’re seeking an alternative to the busy slopes of the Alps, Voss should be at the top of your list. With world-class terrain, a rich skiing culture, and new direct flights making it easier than ever to visit, it’s a hidden gem that won’t stay secret for long.

Where to Stay in Voss

Hotel Scandic, Voss

I stayed at the Hotel Scandic in Voss, which offers an unbeatable location. The hotel seamlessly connects to both the railway station from Bergen and the ski cable car lift, making it an ideal base for winter sports enthusiasts and travellers alike. You can step out of the train and be in your hotel room within minutes or hop onto the ski lift in seconds.

The rooms were modern, comfortable, and well-equipped with everything needed for a relaxing stay. The bar and restaurant areas were cosy and welcoming, perfect for unwinding after a long day on the slopes. One of my favourite features was the Shuffleboard game, a tabletop bowling-style game popular in the USA, which provided great entertainment. Another highlight was the sauna on the top floor, offering breathtaking views of the frozen lake, a truly serene experience.

The breakfast buffet was extensive, featuring a mix of cooked dishes, cold-cut meats, eggs, smoked salmon, and Nordic specialities, catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.

Park Hotel, Voss

For those who appreciate fine wine, the Park Hotel is a must-visit. Located just across the road from the Scandic, this hotel may have a slightly dated appearance, but it more than makes up for it with its exceptional food and wine selection.

The previous owner was an avid wine collector who spent a lifetime curating an outstanding selection of wines, now valued at over £20 million, containing over 477,000 bottles. When the resort of Voss took ownership of the hotel, they wisely retained the collection, offering guests an unparalleled opportunity to sample some of the world’s finest wines. Meals at the Park Hotel are meticulously paired with premium wines and champagnes, making for a truly gourmet experience, though some bottles are reserved for those with exceptionally deep pockets.

Excitingly, the hotel is set for a full refurbishment in the next two years. The renovation will expand the property towards the lake, enhancing its views and overall appeal.

Elva Hotel

If you’re looking for boutique luxury with award-winning design, the Elva Hotel is the perfect choice. Nestled on the Elva River, just a short ride from the centre of Voss, this intimate 14-room hotel is a hidden gem. Each room is designed to maximize the stunning lake views, offering a tranquil and picturesque stay.

During my visit, I enjoyed an exquisite evening meal that showcased the region’s best ingredients and flavours. I also had the opportunity to tour the hotel, and it’s safe to say that everything about it, from its architecture to its exclusive atmosphere, felt perfect. This hotel is ideal for travellers looking for a serene and stylish retreat, and we will soon be offering it as an accommodation-only option for guests seeking something truly special.

Whether you’re looking for ski-in/ski-out convenience, fine wine experiences, or a tranquil boutique stay, Voss has something to suit every type of traveller.

Discovering Voss: A Summary

Voss, Norway, is emerging as a top skiing destination, offering world-class terrain, rich ski culture, and increasing accessibility for British skiers. Despite its lower altitude, Voss benefits from consistent snowfall due to its northern latitude, providing excellent conditions well into spring. The resort, along with nearby Myrkdalen, boasts 72km of pistes, accessible off-piste terrain, and a relaxed, crowd-free atmosphere, making it particularly appealing for families. British interest in Voss is surging, fueled by new direct flights from London Gatwick to Bergen starting in the 2025/26 season. With a strong Olympic heritage and a variety of high-quality accommodations, from the centrally located Scandic Voss to the luxurious Elva Hotel, Voss is a hidden gem that won’t remain a secret for long.