To Haukeliseter by bus

With NW180 Haukeliekspressen, it is easy to travel between Oslo and Haugesund. There are several departures daily in both directions, and the bus route goes over Haukelifjell, where it stops, among other places, outside the DNT cabin Haukeliseter.

Haukeliseter is a 24-hour staffed DNT cabin, located almost 1000 meters above sea level. The lodge is a very popular starting point for those who want to experience the Norwegian mountains – whether it's a summit tour, a trip to Hardangervidda, or just a short walk in the area around the cabin. 

Guests are welcomed year-round at Haukeliseter, so you can plan your summer, autumn, and winter vacations in scenic surroundings. In other words, a perfect destination who’s both easy to reach and accessible by bus.

Once we were seated at the bus, all we could do was lean back, relax and let the holiday feeling set in. The bus stopped for a  quick leg stretch at Notodden and then for another longer break at Åmot, both of which were much appreciated, and then we arrived at Haukeliserer and were ready to check-in. Easy peasy!

Being a guest at Haukeliseter is great! We checked into our room, in the traditional “stabbur” (storehouse). You can book bed spaces in both two- and four-person rooms here. The rooms in this house are simple but cozy, just as we preferred. Fortunately, there are many different room types at Haukeliseter, so everyone can find facilities that meet their needs.

One of the first things we noticed upon arrival at Haukeliseter were sheep and cute little lambs. We heard their little bells clinking, and all the guests, both young and old were charmed by the sight of the grazing little woolly balls. So lovely!

• The sheep, definitely!
• Haukeliseter has its own bakery with fresh daily baked goods
• You will find a wood-fired sauna right by the water. Sit and warm up for as long as you want, then cool down with a refreshing dip – if you dare.
• Several times a week, the hot tub is also heated. Here, tired legs can relax after a good day of hiking.
• It is super easy to get here by bus, making it very accessible
• You will find plenty of hiking opportunities starting right from outside the cabin door
• And last but not least, they serve absolutely delicious food, with clear allergen labeling at Haukeliseter.

There are many hiking opportunities at Haukeliseter. We tested the summit hike to Vesle Nup, a peak that stands 1510 meters above sea level. The total hike is about 13 km, and it is suitable for most people. We saw both families with children and children in carriers on the hike. The trail is not too steep or exposed. From the top, you have a 360-degree panoramic view of the mountains – a fantastic sight. Few things are as enjoyable as eating your packed lunch and drinking a cup of coffee outdoors, and at Haukeliseter, you can pay to pack your lunch and have your thermos filled up. Luxury!

In addition to several summit hikes, you can hike from cabin to cabin in the area around Haukeliseter, and also go trail running. During our visit, there had been quite a bit of rain, and since I am not fond of mud, we ran along the main road instead, which worked perfectly fine.

It is also possible to rent a canoe and kayak at Haukeliseter, so you can also explore by water. And if you're mainly looking for a beautiful view and not so much for a hike, you can even enjoy a stunning view directly from the lounge. In other words, there is really something for everyone!

In collaboration between DNT and NOR-WAY Bussekspress, travelers who take the bus to or from the cabin have the opportunity to get a green card. You can read more about the green card here, but in short, it gives you 100 NOK to spend on selected DNT cabins. A tip for those heading to Haukeliseter is that they have their own bakery – use the card to buy buns, they are large, taste heavenly, and are perfect to enjoy out on a  mountain hike.

Search and book your ticket with Haukeliekspressen today.

We recommend that you pre-order your ticket in advance before departure, either through the app or on www.nor-way.no It's possible to purchase your ticket directly from your driver, but chances are that the bus might be fully booked on your preferred bus.

Included in your ticket, you already have two pieces of luggage to place under the bus, which is perfect for a holiday in Norway where you never quite know what weather you will get. Should you need to bring more luggage, it is easy to add it to your booking, whether you book through the app or on the web. 

Additionally, you can change your booking for free (just make sure you are logged in at nor-way.no or in the app when you book), up to one hour before departure. * Please note that you cannot change the return journey if you have booked a round trip and started the journey.

From your bus seat on Haukeliekspressen, you get a fantastic view of the landscape you travel through, best enjoyed if you book a panorama seat. These seats are located at the front of the bus, giving you a great view both forward and to the side. The panorama seat is one of the many options available when booking your trip.

• Always two pieces of luggage under the bus included
• Free change of travel
• The possibility to customize with your own options (for example, sit alone, sit together, panorama seat, add extra luggage)
• A break for stretching your legs, getting food or using the rest room at Åmot (hot food, coffee, and ice cream are also sold here)

Great news for our travelers from the summer of 2024. You may now also take advantage of night departures with Haukeliekspressen. Departures from both Haugesund and Oslo. 

You can read more about Haukeliekspressen here.

The journey between Haugesund and Oslo takes over 9 hours. Of course, delays or other issues can affect the bus's departure time. It's annoying to wait for a bus you don't know where it is. Therefore, we recommend the service "Find my bus".

You can check it out here, and it allows you to see where your bus is on the route.

Search and book your ticket for Haukeliekspressen today!