Here in the Røros region, we love it when the temperature falls way below freezing and ice flowers form on the windows!
It means that the air is dry and pure. In fact, we tolerate it a lot before we think it’s too nippy. For us minus 15C is only ‘half’ cold, and we would not say it was really cold until the temperature approaches minus 30. If you have not yet experienced the Røros region in January or February, you have been missing out on a unique sensory adventure.
The Røros plateau is the perfect place to seek out if you are after a genuine and magical winter atmosphere. The mountain plateau stretches over large parts of the Røros region, from Vingelen in the east to Dalsbygda and Forollhogna in the west, from Skardsfjella and Riasten in the north to Femundsmarka and Tufsingdalen in the south. The area lies at 600-1200 meters above sea level and is characterized by rolling plains, varied terrain, and the odd mountain peak attracting attention in an otherwise open landscape.
The light
As early as mid-January the sun is noticeably higher in the sky, the days start to get slightly longer and rays of sunlight sweep slowly across the snowy plains, highlighting every detail and creating a true winter wonderland. The pure white, ice-cold snow turns the plain into a willing blank canvas for the rainbow colours of the sun, for winter mists and whimsical touches of clouds. If you are up early enough, you can catch the first golden rays in the morning sun breaking on the horizon. Later, the spectrum can change from blue, pink and violet to a fiery red display in the late afternoon. Fantastic photo opportunities – or something to enjoy in the moment.
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The Sounds
At this time of year, the snowy plains are perfect for a variety of activities. There is more than enough snow to ski, but not so much that you can’t follow the paths and trails on foot. You can jump on a bike with extra-wide tires – or whiz off behind an eager team of noisy sled dogs. Whether you choose skis, kicksled or bike, you will be aware of the sounds of the snow. It will creak with every jab of the ski pole; On the cross-country ski trails, your speed is audible as a swishing at your heels and, if you decide to follow the tracks of foxes and hares, you will hear the snow cracking under your weight as you leave two long stripes behind you in the gleaming white landscape.
The cold
None of these magical colours, sounds or experiences would be possible without the cold that our region has to offer. If you are alarmed at the thought of 20 degrees below freezing, let us reassure you that the dry mountain air makes for a more pleasant winter dau than the blustery, damp climate of the coastal towns. Sure, the cold stings a bit on the cheeks but with good quality wool clothing, staying warm is not a problem. Breathe the cold air deeply into your lungs and then set off on your adventure. Feel alive!
Tips for great winter experiences
- The Røros region boasts mile after mile of well-prepared ski trails in various terrains – and never far from the nearest parking opportunity. Check out skisporet.no, where you will find updated information about trail status all over the region.
- If you prefer mountain skiing outside of the trail network, you have almost endless choices. You can either explore in the vicinity of the trails or you can go off entirely on your own in the wilderness in one of the region’s two national parks.
- For skiers who like to conquer peaks and enjoy the view from the top, we can offer a good selection. For an easier option, Einarsvola and Fjellkjerka (‘the mountain church’) are scarcely an hour’s trip from the center of Røros – manageable for the whole family.
- For the adventurous, looking for longer and more demanding peaks, we can recommend Gråhøgda on Hummelfjell, Sålekinna, Elgpiken, Tronfell, or Viglpiken. Follow the mountain safety rules (‘Fjellvett’), enjoy the trip – and equally, look forward to relaxing afterward.
- We suggest that you settle comfortably in front of the fireplace or campfire with a steaming hot chocolate or cocoa and a good wool blanket!
