Norway may be known for its fjords, mountains and landscapes, but it is also home to a fascinating underground world of caves and caverns. These natural wonders, formed over millions of years by the power of water, ice, and geological processes, offer a unique and exciting way to explore Norway’s hidden depths.
For adventurous travellers seeking to combine the thrill of caving with the comfort of glamping, Norway offers a range of ways to discover its subterranean marvels from the convenience of a luxurious glamping site. In this article we’ll guide you through some of Norway’s most remarkable caves and caverns, and showcase glamping sites which can serve as your basecamp for underground exploration.
Grønligrotta Cave – Nordland
Located in the heart of the Rana municipality in Nordland, Grønligrotta is one of Norway’s most famous and accessible caves. This limestone cave, formed over 700,000 years ago, features stunning stalactites, stalagmites and underground waterfalls. It is open to the public from June to August, with guided tours available for visitors of all ages and skill levels.
Glamping Site: Laksforsen Ferieleiligheter og Camping
Just a short drive from Grønligrotta, the Laksforsen Ferieleiligheter og Camping offers comfortable glamping accommodations in the form of cosy cabins and well-equipped tents. The site features stunning views of the nearby Laksforsen waterfall and provides easy access to other natural attractions in the area, such as the Svartisen glacier and the Arctic Circle.
Kollhellaren Cave – Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Islands, known for their dramatic peaks, pristine beaches and picturesque fishing villages, are also home to the Kollhellaren Cave, a unique and historically significant feature located on the island of Moskenes. This sea cave, formed by the relentless pounding of the waves, was used as a hiding place by the Norwegian resistance during World War II. Today it is accessible by boat or kayak, with guided tours available during the summer months.
Glamping Site: Lofoten Kabin Camp
The Lofoten Kabin Camp, located in the heart of the Lofoten Islands, offers a range of comfortable glamping accommodations, from cosy cabins to luxurious glass domes. The site provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and fjords and serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring the Kollhellaren Cave and other natural wonders of the Lofoten Islands.
Halvgudshullet Cave – Telemark
The Halvgudshullet Cave, located in the Telemark region of southern Norway, is a unique and challenging cave system which offers a thrilling adventure for experienced cavers. This cave, whose name translates to “The Half-God’s Hole,” features narrow passages, underground streams and stunning rock formations. Access to the cave is restricted to guided tours led by experienced speleologists, available from May to September.
Glamping Site: Reskjem Gårdsturisme
The Reskjem Gårdsturisme, located in the heart of Telemark, offers a range of comfortable glamping accommodations, from cosy cabins to traditional Norwegian “stabburet” houses. The site provides easy access to the Halvgudshullet Cave and other natural attractions in the area, such as the Rjukan waterfall and the Gaustatoppen mountain.
Svarthammarhola Cave – Nordland
The Svarthammarhola Cave, located in the Fauske municipality of Nordland, is one of Norway’s largest and most impressive cave systems. This limestone cave, formed over millions of years by the power of water and ice, features stunning rock formations, underground lakes and a unique ecosystem of cave-dwelling animals. Access to the cave is restricted to guided tours led by experienced speleologists, which are available from June to August.
Glamping Site: Sjønstå Gård
The Sjønstå Gård, located just a short drive from the Svarthammarhola Cave, offers a range of comfortable glamping accommodations, from cabins to luxurious yurts. The site features stunning views of the nearby fjords and mountains and provides easy access to other natural attractions in the area, such as the Saltstraumen maelstrom and the Junkerdal National Park.
Raggejavreraige Cave – Finnmark
The Raggejavreraige Cave, located in the remote wilderness of Finnmark in northern Norway, is a unique and rarely visited cave system which offers a true adventure for experienced cavers. The cave, whose name translates to “The Jagged Ravine,” features stunning ice formations, underground waterfalls and a labyrinth of narrow passages. Access to the cave is restricted to guided tours led by experienced speleologists, available from July to August.
Glamping Site: Skaidi Adventure
The Skaidi Adventure, located in the heart of Finnmark, offers a range of comfortable glamping accommodations including traditional Sami lavvo tents. It provides easy access to the Raggejavreraige Cave and other natural attractions in the area, such as the Alta Canyon and the Nordkapp cliffs.
Tips for Safe and Responsible Caving
Exploring Norway’s caves and caverns can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it also requires proper preparation, equipment and respect for the environment.
To ensure a safe and responsible caving adventure, take the following steps:
- Always go with a guide or experienced caver, never explore a cave alone.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear, including a helmet, headlamp, and sturdy boots with good traction.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks and a basic first-aid kit, and familiarise yourself with the cave’s emergency procedures.
- Follow Leave No Trace principles and avoid disturbing the cave’s delicate ecosystem or damaging its formations.
- Check the weather and water conditions before entering a cave and be prepared to cancel or modify your plans if necessary.
Conclusion
Exploring Norway’s caves and caverns from the comfort of a glamping site offers a unique and unforgettable way to discover the country’s hidden wonders. From the stunning limestone formations of Grønligrotta to the historic sea cave of Kollhellaren, Norway’s subterranean world is full of surprises and adventures waiting to be uncovered.
By combining the thrill of caving with the comfort and convenience of glamping you can create a truly immersive and rewarding travel experience. Whether you’re a seasoned caver seeking a new challenge or a curious adventurer looking to explore Norway’s underground marvels, the country’s top glamping sites provide the perfect basecamp for your subterranean journey.
With its stunning natural scenery, well-developed infrastructure and welcoming glamping sites, Norway is the perfect destination for an underground expedition you’ll never forget. With the right preparation, equipment, and mindset, you can embark on a truly remarkable journey into the heart of Norway’s subterranean world.
