Gaustatoppen has been voted Norway's most beautiful mountain – and there’s good reason for it. From the summit, 1883 metres above sea level, you can see one-sixth of the whole of Norway on clear days. Many dream of climbing this iconic mountain, and a natural question is: where do you stay overnight? Sandviken Camping in Tinn Austbygd offers 12 charming and well-equipped cabins just 38 km from the car park at Gaustatoppen – the perfect base for your summit trip and for exploring all that Tinn and Telemark have to offer.
Gaustatoppen – an extraordinary summit hike
Before we present the cabins, it's worth saying a little about the destination itself. Gaustatoppen is not only one of Norway's most visited mountains, it is also one of the most special. From here, the view stretches across an area roughly equivalent to one-sixth of the country – mountains, plains, lakes and valleys in all directions. On a clear day, there is something almost overwhelming about this sight.
Practicalities about the trip:
- The car park at Stavsro is located 38 km from Sandviken Camping – a drive of around 40 minutes through beautiful mountain scenery
- The trip from Stavsro to the summit is 4.3 km and takes about 2 hours each way.
- The difficulty level is moderate to demanding – sturdy hiking boots are a must
- Always bring a hat, mittens, a scarf, and extra clothing – it can be bitterly cold at 1883 metres, even on a warm summer's day.
- At the top, you'll find a cafe with simple catering.
Gausta Railway – the mountain's secret If you want to experience something unique, Gaustabanen is an experience in a class of its own. This funicular railway literally goes through the mountain and takes you to the summit in just 15 minutes. It was originally built as a secret military facility for NATO during the Cold War, but is now open to everyone, making Gaustatoppen accessible regardless of fitness level or experience. Many choose to walk the 4.3 kilometres up on foot and take the funicular down. Note that there is approximately 4 km walk from the funicular station back to the car park at Stavsro.
Gaustatoppen is a summer and autumn experience. During peak season, we recommend using the shuttle bus from "Bygget" or Gaustablikk to avoid parking problems.
Our cabins – your cosy base after your trip
After a long day in the mountains, there's nothing better than returning to a cosy, pre-made cabin. With us, you don't need to unpack bedding or stress about practicalities – everything is ready when you arrive. We have 12 cabins by Lake Tinnsjø, varying in size and standard, so you'll find something to suit whether you're a couple on a romantic weekend getaway or a large family sharing experiences.
A common feature of all the cabins is that bed linen and towels are included in the price, and the beds are always made up. We have also refurbished the cabins with new beds, cosy sofas, a DAB radio with Bluetooth, books, and games – so that the pleasant evenings indoors are as enjoyable as the days spent outdoors.
Tangen Cabin – Exclusive Retreat on its Own Headland
For those who want the very best, Tangen is the answer. It is situated on an idyllic spit of land out on Lake Tinnsjø – with no near neighbours, water on several sides, and your own private beach. The cabin was completely renovated in 2019 and maintains a high standard, setting it in a class of its own. Open the door in the morning, and you'll be greeted by Lake Tinnsjø and the mountains in all their glory.
Inside, everything has been thought through: a wood-burning stove in the living room, large windows that let in the view, and a kitchen equipped with a dishwasher, oven, microwave, and a washing machine in the bathroom. Mood lighting and a carefully selected library of books and games make evenings indoors at least as good as the hike up Gaustatoppen. Two bedrooms provide space for four people.
Max. 4 guests | Private bathroom | Private terrace and beach | Fireplace | From kr. 2200,- per night
3-room cabin with WC – the family favourite
Our best-equipped standard cabin and a natural choice for larger families and travel groups. With two bedrooms, a private living room, and a private bathroom with a shower, this is a cabin where everyone can live comfortably under the same roof without treading on each other's toes. The kitchen is fully equipped with a dishwasher and stove, and outside awaits a private terrace with its own outdoor furniture and a fire pit with a grill rack – perfect for celebrating the summit with a warm evening around the flames.
The cabin is equipped with fibre-optic internet and a flat-screen TV, and can accommodate up to 7 people with practical solutions such as a family bunk bed and bunk beds. Children aged 0-6 are not counted towards the total number of people. Pets are very welcome.
Max. 7 guests | Private bathroom | Terrace and fire pit | From NOK 1495,- per night
The King's Cabin – historic log cabin with soul and private bathroom
Kongehytta is one of the campsite's most unique cabins – hand-hewn by grandfather Nils Olav Fagerberg in 1971 and named after the crown-like emblem he carved above the entrance door. After the flood in 2015 affected the site, the cabin was completely renovated and physically moved to its current prime location, where it today faces directly onto Lake Tinnsjøen.
Inside, you'll be met with a cosy atmosphere featuring solid timber walls and modern amenities: a private toilet, fibre optic internet, cable TV, and complimentary toiletries and soap provided in the bathroom. Outside, a private terrace awaits with its own garden furniture and a fire pit with a BBQ grill. A refined and historic retreat for couples seeking peace and comfort after a long day on Gaustatoppen.
Max. 3 guests | Private bathroom | Terrace and fire pit | From NOK 1100,- per night
3-room cottage without toilet – spacious at a good price
Two bedrooms and a shared living room mean this cabin type offers plenty of space for the whole party, at a more favourable price than the options with private bathrooms. A large veranda is perfectly positioned facing Lake Tinnsjø, allowing you to enjoy long breakfasts and the evening sun with views of the water. The kitchenette is equipped with an induction hob and microwave. Bathroom and shower facilities are available in our modern service building nearby. A popular choice for families and groups of friends who prioritise space, time spent together in the living room, and a lovely veranda.
Max. 5 guests | Service building | Veranda facing the water | From DKK 1100,- per night
2-room cabin without toilet – classic and cosy
A traditional and charming cottage, ideal for couples or a small family. Easy to settle into, readily accessible, and with everything you need for a good night's sleep after a day in the mountains. One cottage faces the playground, the other has a sunny terrace facing Lake Tinnsjø.
Max. 5 guests | Service building | From kr. 1000,- per night
3-person and 4-person cabins – historic log cabins with soul
For two to four people who want their own place to retreat to, these cabins are a popular and affordable choice. Several of them are unique, hand-hewn log cabins with grass roofs, built with pride by grandfather Nils Olav Fagerberg – living cultural monuments that provide a unique sense of calm and atmosphere. The 3-person cabins are situated so you can choose whether you want to be close to the playground where children thrive, or more secluded down by the river where you can fall asleep to the sound of running water. Here there is plenty of space for the essentials – a bed to sleep in, a roof over your head, and with nature right outside.
3 people from kr 900,- | 4 people from kr 900,- | Service building | Children 0–6 years stay free
What makes Sandviken Camping the ideal base at Gaustatoppen?
It's no coincidence that many people planning to climb Gaustatoppen choose to stay with us. Here are some good reasons:
Distance and logistics: At 38 km and around a 40-minute drive to the Stavsro car park, we are among the closest accommodation providers with full cabin rental in the region. Close enough for you to reach your destination quickly, far enough away for you to sleep in peace and quiet.
Start early – sleep well afterwards: By staying overnight with us, you can set off early in the morning, before the crowds, and reach the summit while the sun is still low and the light is magical. And when you return after 4–5 hours in the mountains, there are made-up beds and a guest kitchen waiting.
The sauna – the recovery you deserve: After a demanding mountain hike, few things beat warming up in Ismåne – our wood-fired sauna with a panoramic window looking out towards Lake Tinnsjøen. The combination of sauna heat and the cold lake is almost medically effective for tired legs and muscles.
The cafe – get good food without making it yourself: After your trip, you won't have to stand around in the kitchen. Our café serves homemade food with local ingredients – everything from fresh baked goods and local pizza to the popular «Tinn Taco» made with locally sourced Angus beef from the neighbouring farm. Here, you can sit outside on the veranda and feast your eyes on the view, with your food on the table.
The Norseman connection Did you know that Sandviken Camping is the starting point for the running leg of the world-famous Norseman Xtreme Triathlon? From here, it is exactly a marathon – 42.2 km – to the top of Gaustatoppen. In other words, we are literally in the shadow of this legendary mountain.
Other experiences in the local area
Gaustatoppen is the highlight, but Tinn and Telemark have much more to offer. Here are some experiences that combine well with your cabin stay with us:
Hardangervidda and ski tours – Northern Europe's largest mountain plateau is right on your doorstep with endless hiking opportunities, wild reindeer, fishing lakes and a silence that is difficult to find anywhere else. In winter, this is an eldorado for ski enthusiasts. A particularly fine experience is Tin trail between Atrå and Rjukan – a machine-groomed trail with Gaustatoppen as the majestic backdrop almost all the way. A unique detail is Myrefykjånvegen, which links two routes together and is compared to walking on the Great Wall of China – just as dramatic and memorable. In Skirvedalen you will find another extensive trail network in sheltered and beautiful mountain terrain. We sell ski maps of Skirvedalen at the reception, and real-time trail conditions can be checked at skisporet.no.
Rjukan and Vemork is a 30-minute drive away and is one of Norway's most fascinating destinations – a UNESCO World Heritage site, dramatic industrial history and the story of the heavy water sabotage await. Here you can walk the saboteur's trail where the resistance fighters left their mark in 1943.
Climbing Rjukan is world-renowned for its ice climbing. In winter, the ice walls offer world-class experiences, while the summer climbing areas are suitable for everyone from beginners to experienced climbers. Bouldering rocks and a climbing mountain are within walking distance of Sandviken Camping.
Lake Tinnsjø is the heart of the area itself – one of Europe's deepest lakes with crystal-clear water. Here you can go trout fishing, kayaking, swimming or diving down to the historic wrecks on the bottom.
Practical information
Address: Austbygdevegen 111, 3650 Tinn Austbygd
Telephone (+47) 350 98 173
Email: post@sandviken-camping.no
Check-in: From 16:00
Check-out By 12:00
Opening hours: Open all year
Bed linen and towels Included in all cabins
Final clean From kr. 500,-
We are easily accessible by car from Rjukan, Notodden, and the rest of Telemark – approx. 2.5 hours from Oslo. We are located at the northern end of Lake Tinnsjø, midway between Oslo and Bergen. For those with caravans or motorhomes, we recommend driving via Gransherad, which is wider and smoother than the Hovin road. The site has a spacious entrance and gladly welcomes larger groups with tailored arrangements. We offer electric car charging via the Laddel app (7.4 kW) at the campsite, and Eviny fast chargers are located 1 km away. Laundry can be arranged via the reception, and a drying room is available for equipment and clothes after demanding mountain hikes. Please feel free to contact us at the reception if you would like tips for trip planning, transport to Gaustatoppen, or have any other questions about your stay.
After a day in the mountains, we also offer recovery: the Ice Moon sauna with a panoramic window overlooking Lake Tinnsjøen. Please note that disposable barbecues are forbidden on the entire premises – however, fire pans with grills are available by the cabins, and we sell locally sourced firewood from our own forest at reception. Remember that the ban on open fires in the wilderness applies from 15 April to 15 September.
Book a cabin at Gaustatoppen – reserve your spot today
Regardless of whether you are planning a sunrise trip to the summit, a leisurely autumn hike in colourful surroundings, or an active family holiday with Gaustatoppen as the highlight – a good experience starts with a good cabin to return to.
With cabins from £55 per night, bed linen included, a sauna, café and 38 km to Norway's most beautiful mountain, the choice is simple.
