Planning a trip that mixes adventure, nature, and genuine outdoor living? The Hønefoss 2-Day Packrafting Tour in the Spålen Nature Reserve offers an authentic taste of Norway’s wild side—all with the comforts of guided expertise. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a curious beginner, this trip promises a blend of scenic beauty, physical activity, and memorable camping nights under the stars.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to paddle through untouched forests and pristine lakes. Second, the gourmet meals cooked over open fires give a taste of Norway’s culinary simplicity and authenticity. Lastly, the small group size—limited to 12—ensures a personal, relaxed vibe, perfect for making new outdoor-loving friends.
A potential consideration? The tour involves several hours of paddling and portaging, so it’s best suited for those with a moderate fitness level and a sense of adventure. It’s not designed for families with very young children or anyone with mobility restrictions. However, for those who love outdoor challenges and stunning scenery, this tour offers an unbeatable escape.
If you’re craving a true Norwegian wilderness experience with active exploration and cozy camping, this adventure is ideal. It suits nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to connect with Norway’s natural beauty in a meaningful way.
Key Points
- Authentic wilderness experience with guided paddling on pristine lakes
- Gourmet meals prepared over open fire, adding comfort to adventure
- Small group size for personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
- All necessary gear included, so you can pack light
- Accessible for beginners with basic outdoor skills training provided
- Suitable for ages 12 and up, not recommended for very young children or those with certain health issues
Exploring the 2-Day Packrafting Itinerary
Day 1: From Øyangen to Spålen – The Journey Begins
Your adventure starts at the parking lot at Øyangen, where you’ll meet your guide, an experienced local familiar with every nook of the area. After a quick safety briefing and an introduction to packrafting, the group sets off to explore the beautiful, untouched waters of Spålen.
The packrafts provided are easy to handle, even if you’re new to paddling, with the guide giving basic instructions on technique, safety, and paddling safety. As you glide through the calm lakes surrounded by thick forests, you’ll notice how quiet and peaceful the landscape feels. One review mentions “the stunning views of the mountains and forests made every paddle stroke worthwhile,” which perfectly captures the scenery.
Midway through the day, your group will arrive at the first campsite, where you’ll set up your tent or hammock. The site is well-equipped for camping, often with spots shaded by trees and overlooking the water.
Evening: Gourmet Fire-Cooked Dinner & Starry Sky
After pitching your tent, the highlight of your evening is a gourmet meal cooked over an open fire—probably featuring wild game stew, a local specialty that’s hearty and flavorful. The experience of cooking your meal under the stars, with the crackling fire and cool night air, adds a layer of magic to the trip.
Guests have noted how relaxing and authentic this part of the tour is. One reviewer appreciates that “the meals are surprisingly gourmet, given the outdoor setting,” and mentions the starry sky as a perfect backdrop while chatting around the fire.
Day 2: Continued Paddling & Wilderness Exploration
The next morning, after breakfast, you’ll pack up and continue paddling through more lakes and forested areas. The route includes some portaging, which means carrying your gear between lakes—an activity that adds a bit of physical challenge but keeps the experience engaging.
On this day, the group paddles toward the Tverrsjøen parking lot, where the tour concludes. The entire journey offers plenty of opportunities for photos, wildlife spotting, and simply soaking up Norway’s spectacular natural beauty.
More Great Tours NearbyGear & Equipment: Effortless for Participants
All paddling equipment, tents, and essential gear are provided—meaning you only need to bring personal clothing, toiletries, and snacks. The included gear package features a sleeping bag, insulated sleeping mat, backpack, waterproof packing bags, and a headlamp, making this a hassle-free experience.
The tour guides can also offer optional training sessions in outdoor skills like map reading and first aid, which can boost confidence for newbies or those wanting a refresher.
What Sets This Tour Apart?
Authentic Paddling Through Untouched Nature
Unlike commercialized outdoor experiences, this tour emphasizes genuine wilderness. Paddling on lakes surrounded by dense forest, with no signs of civilization in sight, makes you feel like you’ve stepped into Norway’s secret world. One feedback note describes the scenery as “breathtaking views of the untouched forests and mountains,” which captures the essence of this expedition.
Gourmet Meals in the Outdoors
While many outdoor adventures involve simple sandwiches or canned food, this trip offers gourmet meals prepared over open flames. Guests report being pleasantly surprised by how delicious and filling their dinner was, with wild game stew being a standout. It’s a fantastic way to savor Norway’s local flavors after a day of paddling.
Small Group & Local Guide Expertise
Limited to 12 participants, the small group size creates a friendly, intimate atmosphere. Your guide, knowledgeable and personable, ensures safety, shares local insights, and helps everyone feel comfortable. The familiarity and personalized attention significantly improve the overall experience.
All-Inclusive Convenience
The tour includes all necessary equipment, meals, and transportation from Tverrsjøen back to Øyangen, which simplifies logistics. This means you can focus entirely on enjoying the experience rather than worrying about gear or navigation. Plus, the option to reserve and pay later grants flexibility for planning.
The Practicalities: What You Need to Know
Duration & Start Times
The adventure spans two days, with specific starting times based on availability. Since the tour is flexible, checking ahead for the next available date is recommended.
Transportation & Meeting Points
Meet at the parking lot at Jonsetangen. For those traveling from Oslo or Gardermoen, transportation options are available upon request, making this accessible even if you’re not based locally.
Fitness & Skill Level
Participants should have a basic level of fitness, as paddling can be physically demanding over several hours each day. The tour involves portaging, so being comfortable with carrying gear and walking on uneven terrain is helpful. It’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions.
What to Bring
You should pack comfortable shoes, warm clothing, hats, swimwear, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, outdoor clothing, personal medication, and a reusable water bottle. The tour provides the core equipment, but personal items like snacks and toiletries are up to you.
Restrictions & Not Allowed
To preserve the pristine environment and ensure safety, the tour prohibits smoking, bikes, alcohol, littering, bare feet, and touching plants. These rules help maintain the area’s untouched beauty and minimize impact.
Analyzing the Value
Pricing for a 2-day guided adventure that includes all gear, meals, expert guidance, and transportation offers good value, especially considering the gourmet meals and the quality of the experience. The small group size enhances the feeling of intimacy, and the all-inclusive approach reduces stress for travelers unfamiliar with outdoor gear or Norwegian wilderness.
While the experience requires a modest physical effort, the accessibility for beginners and inclusion of outdoor skills training make it an appealing choice for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This adventure is perfect for nature lovers eager to see Norway’s pristine lakes and forests from a unique perspective. It suits outdoor enthusiasts comfortable with paddling and moderate physical activity, but it’s also accessible for beginners willing to learn.
If you enjoy camping, gourmet outdoor cooking, and scenic paddling, this trip provides a well-rounded, memorable experience. However, it’s less suitable for very young children, those with significant health issues, or travelers seeking a purely relaxed, non-active holiday.
Final Thoughts
The Hønefoss 2-Day Packrafting Tour offers an authentic and immersive way to experience Norway’s wilderness. From paddling across crystal-clear lakes to cooking gourmet meals under the stars, every element is designed to connect you with nature in a meaningful and enjoyable way.
It’s a great choice for adventure seekers who appreciate scenic views, small-group intimacy, and the thrill of outdoor living. The combination of beginner-friendly paddling, comfortable camping, and stunning natural scenery makes it a memorable addition to any Norwegian itinerary.
If you’re after a genuine wilderness adventure that balances activity, comfort, and authentic outdoor experiences, this tour deserves a spot on your travel list. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and your camera!
FAQ
How long is the paddling each day?
Expect to paddle for several hours each day, with breaks in between. The route is designed to be accessible for those with basic fitness levels.
Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, two lunches, and a three-course dinner featuring locally hunted wild game stew. Meals are prepared over open fire, adding to the outdoor experience.
Do I need prior paddling experience?
No prior experience is necessary. Basic training in paddling techniques is provided, and the equipment is user-friendly even for beginners.
What should I bring?
Participants should bring personal clothing suitable for outdoor conditions, including warm layers, hats, swimwear, insect repellent, biodegradable sunscreen, toiletries, and personal medications. The tour provides all gear, so you only need to pack personal items.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for travelers aged 12 and older. The physical demands and outdoor nature make it less suitable for very young children.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
Is transportation included?
Transportation from Tverrsjøen back to Øyangen is included. For pickups from Oslo or Gardermoen, arrangements are available upon request at additional cost.