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Mårbu Tourist Cabin, also known as Mårbu Turisthytte, is a welcoming DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association) lodge nestled at 1,130 meters above sea level on the vast Hardangervidda plateau in Norway. Situated at the northern end of the picturesque Lake Mår, this cabin serves as a gateway to the stunning high-mountain landscapes of Telemark, right on the border of Hardangervidda National Park. It's a key stop for those exploring one of Europe's largest mountain plateaus.
Visitors consistently praise Mårbu Tourist Cabin…
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October 2, 2020
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Elevation 1,130 m
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During the summer season, Mårbu Tourist Cabin is accessible by foot via various hiking trails from places like Solheimstulen, Kalhovd, or Rauhelleren. A unique summer option is to take a boat across Lake Mår from Synken directly to the cabin. In winter, access is exclusively by ski.
For summer access, parking is typically available at Synken, where you can catch the boat across Lake Mår. If you plan to hike in, you would park at the starting points of the trails, such as Solheimstulen or Kalhovd. Specific parking details and availability can vary, so it's advisable to check with DNT or local information centers before your trip.
Mårbu Tourist Cabin offers designated dog-friendly rooms (hunderom) which can be booked in advance. While dogs are welcome in these specific rooms, they are generally not permitted in common areas like the dining room. On trails, dogs must be kept on a leash, especially within Hardangervidda National Park, to protect wildlife and livestock.
When staffed during Easter and the summer season, Mårbu serves traditional Norwegian cuisine, often made with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy a breakfast buffet, pack a lunch for their day's adventures, and savor a delicious three-course dinner in the evening. Coffee and homemade pastries are also available during the day.
Yes, Mårbu offers several amenities for comfort. It has indoor toilets (installed in 2011), shared bathroom facilities, showers, and a drying room for wet gear. A generator provides electricity from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with charging outlets available in common areas. Mobile coverage is generally decent for Telenor users and those on networks utilizing Telenor's infrastructure.
Mårbu is an excellent base for day hikes. The surrounding terrain is gently rolling, making it suitable for families. You can explore the areas around Lake Mår, or venture towards the smaller hills and valleys with peaks up to 1400 meters further away. The cabin is also situated along Søre Nordmannsslepa, offering opportunities for shorter sections of this historic trail.
Absolutely! Mårbu is a natural stop and an ideal starting point for cabin-to-cabin tours on Hardangervidda. Popular routes connect Mårbu to other DNT cabins such as Solheimstulen, Kalhovd, and Rauhelleren, allowing hikers to create varied multi-day itineraries across the plateau.
For hiking and exploring the plateau on foot, the summer season (typically late June to mid-September) is ideal when the cabin is fully staffed. For skiing, the winter season (usually late March to mid-April) offers prime conditions for cross-country skiing across the snow-covered Hardangervidda.
Yes, there are excellent fishing opportunities in the nearby waters, particularly in Lake Mår. During staffed periods, rowboats are available for rent at the cabin, allowing you to access prime fishing spots. Remember to check local regulations and acquire any necessary fishing permits.
Yes, Mårbu is well-suited for families with children, especially those who wish to stay for several days. The terrain immediately around the cabin is gently rolling and friendly, offering opportunities for easy day trips. The cabin also provides a true high-mountain experience with a focus on life 'off the grid', which can be a unique adventure for families.
Mårbu Tourist Cabin is located at an elevation of 1130 meters above sea level. The immediate surrounding terrain is characterized by friendly, gently rolling hills and valleys. Further away, you'll find higher peaks reaching up to 1400 meters, offering varied landscapes for exploration.
Mårbu is located at Skartåkervollen, which was historically known as a dancing place. The cabin itself is part of the extensive DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association) network, preserving a long tradition of mountain tourism and access to Norway's wilderness. It's also situated along Søre Nordmannsslepa, a historic route across Hardangervidda.