Skiing in Norway at New Year
In this blog, you'll find practical, first-hand information about skiing in Norway at New Year. Norway has been my life for the past 25 years - before joining Ski Safari, I lived and worked there for five years, and my children learned to ski on its slopes. So I've had my fair share of slope-side New Year celebrations here, and can personally vouch for just how magical it is.
Norway offers a wholesome New Year experience, without the inconsistent snow, crowded pistes, or long lift queues you tend to get in the Alps - and the après scene is a lot more relaxed too. On New Year's Eve, the atmosphere reflects the Norwegian concept of 'koselig' - creating a warm, friendly environment with good company and heartfelt conversation.
The resorts are easy to reach, reliably snow-sure, and the slopes suit all abilities. It's perfectly suited to families, couples, and first-timers looking to escape to the mountains and celebrate the New Year.
What better way to spend New Year's Eve than with incredible night skiing, spectacular fireworks displays, activities like dog sledding, and even a potential sighting of the Northern Lights? And when the clock strikes midnight, be ready to wish each other 'godt nyttår' (“Happy New Year”)!
In this complete guide to skiing in Norway at New Year, we've answered the questions we receive the most often from our customers:
- What are the snow conditions like?
- How busy are the slopes?
- Is it really cold and dark?
- How easy is it to get there?
- What's the skiing like?
- What's the accommodation like?
- How much does it cost? Is it expensive?
- How does ski school work?
- What activities and events are there?
Our Norway New Year ski packages start from £1,089pp for 7 nights including flights, transfers and accommodation. All of our holidays are tailor-made, so to receive your unique quotation, call us on 01273 224060 or request a quotation online and we'll be in touch. We're happy to help find the best resorts for your needs, using our first-hand experience.
Will there be enough snow at New Year?
More than enough! Despite the New Year being towards the beginning of the season, Norway is incredibly snow-sure. It's one of the safest bets in Europe at this time of year. Norway's high latitude means it has a slightly cooler climate, creating more reliable conditions and fewer freeze-thaw cycles than in the Alps. Essentially, you can trust that early-season snow sticks around.
The snow starts falling in late October and starts to ramp up from early to mid-December. That means there will be a solid snow base, topped up by Norway's world-class snowmaking systems, and the potential for some powder dumps during your stay as well.
In my 25 years of experience, it has been extremely rare that the New Year break has faced a lack of snowfall. We encourage customers to travel confidently over Christmas, so New Year travellers should have little doubt.
My top recommendations for snow-sure slopes at New Year are Kvitfjell and Myrkdalen. On average, Kvitfjell receives 94cm of snow by the end of December, with another 75cm falling in January - and it keeps this snow exceptionally well. And Myrkdalen is one of Europe's snowiest resorts, seeing a staggering average snowfall of 143cm in December alone!
How busy are the slopes at New Year?
Not very! Norway is renowned for its quiet slopes and lack of lift queues, even over peak dates.
Yes, New Year is one of the 'busier' periods, but the slopes are never overwhelmingly crowded - especially if you're used to resorts in the Alps like Val Thorens, La Plagne and Val d'Isère. Norway will feel empty in comparison. The longest lift queue you'll have all week is usually 5-10 minutes maximum. Most of the time, you'll be straight onto the lift.
While the accommodation is very popular and does sell out early, there isn't so much accommodation that it feels absolutely rammed. That's the good thing about Norwegian resorts; even when properties are full on peak dates, there is still plenty of space on the slopes.
This is a particularly important point for families. My kids have grown up skiing in Norway, and not having the worry as a parent that comes with watching your children tackle overcrowded slopes with out-of-control skiers is a real benefit. Children and nervous skiers can focus on the skiing and not the rush of people around them.
Won't it be cold and dark over the New Year?
Not like you probably think. This is a common misconception, and the answer is all in the context.
Most of the Norwegian ski resorts we offer are in the south of Norway, near Oslo or Bergen. These resorts are not much further north than Scotland. When people think of Norway and bitterly cold and dark conditions, they're often thinking further north in the Arctic Circle. Up there, it certainly is cold and dark in mid-winter!
The sun rises just after 9am, and sets around 3:30pm at this time of the year. When you look at a ski day in our resorts, the slopes open around 9:30am and shut at 3:30pm. So that gives you a full day of skiing, which is usually more than enough - especially for families with younger children like mine.
You'll see spectacular sunsets towards the end of the ski day, which will quite literally stop you in your tracks. On top of that, the Norwegians have fantastic night skiing. So if you do want to extend your skiing a bit more, you can ski right through until 8pm with the help of floodlights (how often it runs is specific to each resort - it's usually a couple of nights a week).
Coldness-wise, let's be honest... if you're going skiing, you need some sub-zero temperatures. Otherwise, the snow doesn't last. But you don't need to pack anything different from what you would for skiing anywhere else at this time of year. It's only two degrees cooler on average than the Alps, so it's not that different (but it is different enough that you're more snow secure!). During the day, expect it to be around -2°C to -5°C. Of course, it may be colder, just as it may be warmer!
How easy is it to get to the resorts?
Very. For most of our resorts, it's a two-hour flight from the UK to Oslo or Bergen, followed by a coach or train transfer to your resort.
We make sure that our customers fly on sensible morning flights between 9am and 11am on the way out, and early evening flights on the way back. This maximises your time in Norway, without early morning wake-ups.
Here are some of our recommended flights, departing on Sunday 27th December 2026. Staying Sunday-Sunday means you can join group ski school, which usually starts on Mondays.
| Airports | Outbound Flight Times | Inbound Flight Times |
| London Gatwick to Bergen | 09:15 - 12:10 | 19:20 - 20:20 |
| London Heathrow to Oslo | 10:35 - 13:50 | 17:20 - 18:50 |
| London Gatwick to Oslo | 09:15 - 12:25 | 18:45 - 20:10 |
Seats on these flights are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and we expect them to sell out quickly!
The length of the transfer depends on where you're skiing, but all resorts are within two to four hours. If a short transfer is important to you, just let us know, and we'll make sure that's taken into account.
Transfers are part of the journey in Norway, whether that's by train or by coach. You'll see Norway's natural beauty, passing lakes and local villages. Trains are our favourite way to travel, and they are a real benefit of skiing in Norway.
Voss is just under two hours on the train from Bergen, on one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. And the accommodation is just steps from the train station! The same is true for Geilo, just with a slightly longer train ride to get there - although you do pass the most scenic stretches on this section of the line.
This railway line makes it seamless to transform your ski holiday into a ski safari. Our Bergen Railway Ski Safari takes advantage of the line stopping at Voss and Geilo, combining the two in one week. It's a very customisable itinerary, with the chance to see the fjords in Flåm and/or stay a night in Bergen, plus a day trip to ski in nearby Myrkdalen. You'll also see the most scenic parts of the train line.
What's the skiing like in Norway?
There is something for all ages and abilities. Firstly, the runs are very wide and expertly groomed. You'll be hard pushed to find crisper corduroy. These pisted runs are generally fairly mellow, and a dream for beginner to intermediate skiers. Plus, the local skiers are civilised and look out for others on the slopes. I know that's not always the case elsewhere!
The beginner areas are brilliant as well. As the saying goes, Norwegians are born with skis on their feet. And these resorts have all the facilities to ensure beginner skiers are in the best environment possible.
For beginners, I'd recommend Beito, while Geilo offers the perfect balance for groups with a mix of beginners and intermediates.
Advanced and expert skiers will find joy with some of the steeper reds and blacks, but I recommend venturing into the world of off-piste. There's nowhere better to try it than in Norway. You can simply glide off the pistes to test out some calf-deep powder, safe in the knowledge you're only a turn away from the slopes.
For more confident skiers and resorts that best cater to those who want to venture off-piste, I'd recommend Norefjell, Myrkdalen, Kvitfjell, Gausta and Voss (see why below).
Not forgetting about the scenery, Norway's is truly unique. In most of our resorts, you'll be skiing with a beautiful view of frozen lakes and snow-blanketed national parks.
When you enquire, just let us know what you're looking for. We'll recommend a resort that suits you best, based on our first-hand experience.
What's the accommodation like in Norway?
Ski-in ski-out and great value for money. The word value is key here. Accommodation across Norway is almost exclusively ski-in ski-out, and always just steps from the rental shop, ski school and all other facilities you might need. And not forgetting the spacious and fully-equipped rooms.
What sets Norway apart is that all of this is very reasonably priced.
When you take all those points into account, you won't find the same level of accommodation, in such a prime location, for a similar price almost anywhere else. Think cosy self-catered cabins, stylish apartments and high-quality 4* half board hotels with pools and spas. That's not to mention extras like bowling alleys, play areas, saunas and more.
Food is another huge aspect. I'd recommend booking half board in all of our hotels, and not only for convenience. The food is genuinely delicious, with standard half board offerings often being comparable to a top-end restaurant in the UK. In some resorts, such as Gausta, the food programmes are even run by internationally recognised, award-winning chefs.
For me, accommodation is a very important part of a ski holiday - particularly for families. Being just steps from the slopes when the kids are in unfamiliar kit, boots, and surroundings makes a real difference. And that's not to mention the benefit for parents, who at some point in the holiday will likely end up carrying their kids' ski equipment as well as their own!
Take it from me as a parent, having everything nearby is a game-changer. Some of my top recommendations, and customer favourites, are the 4*+ Vestlia Resort in Geilo, the 4*+ Norefjell Ski & Spa in Norefjell, the 4* GudbrandsGard Hotel in Kvitfjell, and the 4* Beito Resort Hotel in Beito. I've stayed at every single one and can personally recommend them.
How much does it cost to ski in Norway at New Year?
Not as much as you might think. Generally speaking, Norway is not the place for a bargain-basement, cheap holiday. In Norway, everything is about quality - but that doesn't mean it comes at extortionate prices, because it doesn't. It means that the value for money is exceptional.
Flights, transfers and accommodation
7 nights including flights, transfers and accommodation in Norway at New Year ranges from £1,089pp to £2,709pp. You can view our Norway New Year Ski Packages & Offers for more. These prices are based on 2 adults and 2 children travelling, but please note that every holiday we sell is 100% tailor-made to your requirements, so these prices are just a flavour of what we can offer.
My top three recommended packages for New Year are:
- 4* Myrkalen Hotel, Myrkdalen - 7 nights half board from £1,419pp - my top choice for an all-round winter experience on and off the slopes
- 4* Scandic Voss, Voss - 7 nights B&B from £1,209pp - slopes for all abilities and a town that comes together to celebrate the New Year
- 4* Beito Resort Hotel, Beito - 7 nights B&B from £1,419 - excellent for beginner skiers and those seeking non-ski activities
Lift passes and rentals
Ski extras are great value in Norway, especially in comparison to the more visited resorts in the Alps. Plus, for families, kids up to 6 years ski for free at all resorts (nominal fee required for key card). And helmet hire is included as standard for ski rentals, along with the standard skis, boots and poles.
Below are our current lift pass and standard rental packages for New Year 2027. We're still waiting on rates from some resorts, but we'll add them as soon as we know.
6-day lift pass
| Resort | Adult (18-64) | Senior (65+) | Youth (7/8-17) | Child (0-6/7) |
| Gausta | £283 | £230 | £230 | £6* |
| Myrkdalen | £240 | £182 | £182 | FREE |
| Norefjell | £217 | £166 | £166 | FREE |
* Children up to 6 ski free at all resorts, but you must purchase a key card for a nominal fee at some resorts.
6-day ski rentals
| Resort | Adult (18-64) | Youth (7/8-17) | Child (0-6/7) |
| Gausta | £117 | £76 | £29 |
| Geilo (Slaata side) | £120 | £101 | £50 |
| Myrkdalen | £119 | £96 | £96 |
| Norefjell | £128 | £111 | £77 |
Please note, 6-day lift pass and ski hire prices are correct as of 20/05/2026.
Many resorts include two extra days at no charge with a 6-day lift pass or rental package, which is ideal for a few runs on arrival evening and/or departure day. Our operations team know ski extras inside out, so you can trust them to find you the best available option.
Food
The average food prices on the mountain are pretty similar to the larger resorts in the Alps, with a main course at lunch setting you back around £12 to £18. But the key thing to note is that the food is truly delicious, often crafted using local ingredients - so the value for what you're getting is second-to-none. You might notice that's a common theme!
I recommend staying half board over New Year as it's a great way to know costs in advance. For a more affordable option, you can stay in self-catering accommodation and stock up at local supermarkets.
Drinks
Again, drinking out in Norway is comparable to the big ski resorts in the Alps. On average, a hot chocolate costs between £4-7 (cream and marshmallow dependent!), while a beer or glass of wine costs around £10-£12. While alcohol is heavily taxed in Norway, prices are consistent across the country, and you don't pay extra simply because you're in a ski resort.
To save on alcohol costs, bring some from home, pick up duty-free at the airport, or visit one of Norway's 'vinmonopolet' wine stores (supermarkets are restricted to selling lower-alcohol options only).
How does ski school work and how much does it cost?
Ski school programmes are unique to resorts, so duration, age bands and pricing differ depending on where you go. What remains consistent is the excellent English-speaking instructors, who ensure lessons are a fun and safe environment, with skiers making serious progress.
Why not learn to ski in the country that invented it? After all, Norway didn’t become the most successful nation in Winter Olympics history by accident.
Group ski school
Here are some of our popular group ski school options over New Year:
| Resort | Lessons | Lesson length | Price |
| Beito | 4 days | 90 minutes | £181 |
| Gausta | 5 days | 60-90 minutes | £137 |
| Geilo | 4 days | 80 minutes | £147-165 |
| Myrkdalen | 2 to 5 days | 150 minutes | £149-328 |
| Norefjell | 3 or 5 days | 90 minutes | £124-170 |
Please note that we are still waiting for lesson rates in some resorts.
All group ski school starts on Monday (option to start on different days in Myrkdalen), which is why we recommend departing on Sunday 27th December.
Lessons are organised by age and ability, so skiers can learn in a supportive and appropriate environment. Group sizes are purposely small to help maximise progress.
Private lessons
Private lessons for all ages and abilities are also available in Norway, and are a great way to improve technique, build confidence or learn new skills such as off-piste. They can be excellent value too, particularly if you have two people with one instructor.
If you book the same time slot each day, it's likely you’ll have the same instructor throughout your stay. They'll be able to hone your technique and genuinely improve your skiing or snowboarding. Instructors will also be able to find the best snow conditions in the resort that day, and show you all the local spots to shred.
What activities and events are there?
Non-ski activities
The fun in Norway doesn't stop on the slopes, especially on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. Every resort has its own mix of non-ski activities, so whether you're taking a day off skiing or looking for the perfect way to celebrate the New Year, there's plenty to keep you busy.
Mush your way through snow-blanketed forests on a dog sled, snowshoe across a moonlit winter landscape, jump from a floating sauna into a frozen lake, or wrap up warm and let a horse-drawn sleigh carry you into the night. These are common Norwegian ways to end or start the year on a high, so why not give them a go!
Cross-country skiing is another common way to kick off the year, while ice karting, ice fishing, snow rafting and snowkiting are also options. Take a look at our 'resort guide' on a resort page to find out what activities are available in a specific resort.
Swimming, shuffleboard and bowling are common in most resorts, a great way to relax with friends and family. Spas are common too, which is my personal favourite way to spend an afternoon after a day on the slopes.
Après-ski (or 'afterski' as the Norwegians call it) is more relaxed in Norway - think peaceful afternoons with a few drinks rather than partying on the table. However, the locals are super friendly and love it when Brits visit!
If you're staying in Voss or Myrkdalen in western Norway, you can even take a day trip to the fjords. They are less than an hour away, and you can catch a magical cruise along the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord from Flåm. This is a real highlight and a day you won't forget - and it's topped off with a ride on the Flåm Railway, one of the most beautiful train journeys on earth. I did this day trip most recently in April 2026 with my family, and they absolutely loved it.
New Year's Eve
The Norwegians know how to ring in the New Year in style, with spectacular in-resort fireworks displays lighting up the sky. What better way to see in 2027 than in a cosy winter wonderland - and who knows, maybe the Northern Lights will come out to play!
Across the resorts, New Year’s Eve celebrations go far beyond the fireworks. Restaurants serve special festive menus, there’s live music and entertainment throughout the evening, and some resorts add their own uniquely Norwegian touch - like at Gausta, where the snow groomers put on an illuminated show on the slopes.
In Geilo, you can swap the party atmosphere for something a little quieter with an easy snowshoe walk to Lake Ustedalsfjorden, surrounded by snowy forests and national park scenery. And if you’re staying in western Norway, it doesn't get better than a New Year's Eve cruise on the Nærøyfjord, where you'll have the best seat in the country for the midnight fireworks - in the middle of the fjord!
Another way Norwegians celebrate the new year is by eating a bowl of rice pudding with an almond hidden inside, and whoever finds it gets the biggest dose of good luck. And at midnight, champagne or sparkling wine is the drink of choice - but of course, you're free to celebrate however you like!
If you're wondering, skiing is open as usual on New Year's Day, and activities will still be running.
Kids activities
Each resort will have a tailored programme for the week, carrying on the Christmas festivities and keeping the little ones happy. These will be released nearer the time, but will include activities like kids afterski, mascot dancing, treasure hunts, storytime and marshmallow roasting.
Most resorts also have pools, soft play, toys and even childcare services, which can be a great chance for parents to have a bit of well-earned rest. Resorts also have family-friendly mascots that your children will love seeing out and about.
Why book with Ski Safari?
- Our knowledge - I lived in Norway for five years, and have remained a regular visitor for the last 25. Every recommendation we make is based on our extensive first-hand experience. Plus, we've skied every resort we sell and visited or stayed in every accommodation. We even return every year to top up our knowledge - we skied in eight of our Norwegian resorts in the 2025/26 season!
- Our service - we create every holiday from scratch. This means that the quotation you receive is unique, based on your holiday preferences. Call us, and you can speak to the same person every time. We're always on hand to answer any questions, no matter how big or small, and sort all the details in between.
- Our value - our strong relationships with suppliers mean that we're often cheaper than you might expect. Tailor-made service doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag!
- Our happy customers - we regularly receive positive feedback from our happy customers, many of whom return year after year, and we're proud of our 4.9/5 rating on Feefo. We've also won 'Best Small Travel Company for Ski/Winter Sports Holidays' in the British Travel Awards every year from 2019 to 2025.
Ready to start planning your New Year ski holiday?
If you like the sound of Norway over the New Year, now is the time to start planning. Booking early ensures you'll have the most flexibility on flights, accommodation and room types. You'll also get the best price and take advantage of all the early-booking offers.
Call our friendly team on 01273 224060 (9am to 5:30pm, Monday to Friday) or request a quotation online and we'll be in touch. Whether you have a resort in mind or need us to recommend the right one for you based on our first-hand experience, we're here to help.
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