Treehouse rental Hedmark - 1 treehouse

Where Forest Meets Water: Hedmark Awaits

Tucked into the northeastern corner of Østlandet in southeastern Norway, Hedmark is a place where time moves differently. This former county, now part of Innlandet since 2020, stretches from the fertile shores of Lake Mjøsa all the way to the Swedish border, offering a rare blend of agricultural richness and untamed wilderness. With a long border shared with Sweden's Dalarna and Värmland counties, Hedmark forms a crossroads between two Nordic nations while remaining refreshingly off the beaten tourist path.

For travelers seeking accommodation that truly connects them with nature, booking a treehouse in Hedmark means waking up among the pine forests and rolling hills that have defined this region for centuries. Unlike Norway's dramatic fjord coastline, Hedmark and neighboring Oppland are the country's only landlocked areas, giving them a distinctly different character: think vast boreal forests, meandering rivers, and some of the most fertile farmland in all of Scandinavia.

A Landscape Shaped by Ice and Time

Hedmark's geography reads like a story written by glaciers. Lake Mjøsa dominates the western edge of the region. At 450 meters deep, it ranks among the deepest lakes in Europe, and its waters require five years to flow completely through. The Glomma, Norway's longest river, carves its way through the heart of Hedmark, creating the wide Østerdalen valley. Lake Femunden, the country's second largest natural lake, sits near the Swedish border surrounded by pristine wilderness.

The terrain varies dramatically from south to north. In the southern lowlands near Mjøsa, some of Norway's most productive agricultural districts spread across gentle terrain. Further north, the landscape transitions into expansive coniferous forests that continue eastward into Swedish taiga. This forested zone is home to Norway's largest population of elk (known as moose in North America), with bulls weighing over 500 kilograms roaming freely. Drivers should stay alert, especially at twilight.

The climate here is continental, with northern areas like Tynset recording some of Norway's coldest winter temperatures, sometimes dropping below -40°C. Yet the region remains relatively dry, with the northern corner being one of the driest places in Europe.

Why Your Next Escape Should Be Among Hedmark's Trees

A treehouse stay in Hedmark offers something increasingly rare in our connected world: genuine solitude. The population density here is remarkably low compared to much of Western Europe. This means when you step onto your treehouse deck, the silence is real, broken only by birdsong, rustling leaves, and perhaps the distant call of wildlife.

The region's position away from Norway's coastal tourist circuits means you will encounter fewer crowds and more authentic local experiences. You are not just visiting a destination; you are immersing yourself in a working landscape where farming, forestry, and traditional ways of life continue much as they have for generations.

Hedmark also offers excellent accessibility. Oslo lies roughly two to three hours south by road, making it feasible for weekend escapes or longer stays. The distance feels right: far enough to feel like genuine retreat, close enough to reach without exhausting travel days.

A Climate for All Seasons

Each season in Hedmark brings its own rewards. Summer offers long, bright days perfect for hiking, fishing, and lake activities under the gentle northern sun. Autumn transforms the forests into a tapestry of gold and amber. Winter brings thick snow cover ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing adventures. Spring sees nature awakening, with migrating birds returning and the forest floor carpeted in wildflowers.

The Birthplace of a Scream: Edvard Munch's Origins

Few visitors realize that Edvard Munch, creator of the iconic painting The Scream and one of Modernism's most important artists, was born right here in Hedmark. On December 12, 1863, Munch entered the world at a farmhouse in Ådalsbruk, a small village in the municipality of Løten. His father worked as a military doctor at nearby Tofsrudmoen.

Though the Munch family moved to Oslo when Edvard was just an infant, the artist maintained connections to Løten throughout his life, returning to visit friends and creating sketches of the local landscape and people. The closeness to the countryside and rural life here is believed to have significantly influenced his development as a person and artist.

Today, the Munch Centre at the Klevfos Industrial Museum honors this connection, displaying early drawings from his visits to the region and telling the story of his childhood ties to this area. A dedicated Munch trail marks several locations associated with the artist, including a photo point at the farm where he was born.

Nordic Spirits: The Aquavit Heritage

Hedmark holds a special place in Norwegian drinking culture as the birthplace of the nation's beloved aquavit. The municipality of Løten, in particular, became famous for its distilleries during the 19th century, when the corn-growing districts of Løten, Vang, and Romedal all produced highly prized spirits.

The Løiten Brænderi, established in 1855 as a cooperative where local farmers could distill their grain, created aquavit recipes that remain in use today. The tradition of using locally grown potatoes and flavoring with caraway, dill, and other spices gave Norwegian aquavit its distinctive character. Today, Hedmark Alkemiske Destilleri continues this tradition in the same location, offering tours and tastings that connect visitors with this spirited heritage.

Five Unexpected Experiences Worth Your Time

1. Sail Aboard a Living Museum

The paddle steamer Skibladner, launched in 1856, is the world's oldest paddle steamer still in timetabled service. Nicknamed 'The White Swan of Mjøsa,' this beautifully preserved vessel steams between lakeside towns including Lillehammer, Moelv, Gjøvik, Hamar, and Eidsvoll during summer months. The steam engine and paddle wheels remain operational, offering an authentic experience of 19th-century travel. Dining on board while watching the Mjøsa landscape glide past creates an unforgettable afternoon.

2. Track Moose in the Wild

Hedmark's forests support Norway's largest concentration of moose, and guided moose safaris operate from the region. Companies like Finnskogen Adventures in Elverum take visitors into prime wildlife territory at dawn or dusk when these magnificent animals are most active. Local guides share knowledge about moose behavior, tracks, and the broader wilderness ecosystem, sometimes serving homemade moose sausage around a campfire.

3. Wander a Star-Shaped Fortress

Kongsvinger Fortress rises dramatically above the Glomma River, a remarkably well-preserved example of Baroque military architecture. Construction began in 1673, and the star-shaped fortification was built to defend against Swedish invasion. Remarkably, despite several wars, the fortress was never taken in military combat. Today, you can walk the ramparts for panoramic views, explore dark casemates, and visit the small museums housed within. The surrounding Øvrebyen district features wooden buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries laid out in a charming grid pattern.

4. Venture into Scandinavia's Wild Heart

Femundsmarka National Park, established in 1971 and partly located within the historic Hedmark region, forms part of one of the largest continuous wilderness areas in southern Scandinavia. This landscape of ancient pines, boulder fields, and countless lakes was shaped by retreating glaciers 10,000 years ago and has changed little since. The park is renowned for canoeing, fishing, and multi-day hiking through terrain where you might walk for days without seeing another person. The Norwegian Trekking Association has selected it as one of Norway's three best hiking areas.

5. Hit the Slopes at Norway's Largest Ski Resort

Trysil, located in the traditional Østerdalen district, is Norway's largest ski resort. With 69 slopes, 41 lifts, and over 100 kilometers of cross-country tracks, it offers terrain for all abilities. The resort gained historical significance as the site of the world's first ski race in 1855. Trysil also achieved the prestigious Sustainable Tourism certification, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility. Beyond downhill skiing, the area offers dog sledding, ice fishing, and snowshoeing through peaceful forest trails.

Hidden Gems Worth Seeking Out

Aakersvika Nature Reserve

This 424-hectare wetland nature reserve near Hamar is a paradise for birdwatchers. Short paths through forest lead to wooden viewing platforms overlooking the marshes. Autumn brings spectacular colors and migrating waterfowl, making it an unexpected delight for nature lovers.

The Finnskogen Forest

Stretching along the Norway-Sweden border, this vast forest takes its name from Finnish settlers who arrived in the 17th century. The remote villages, traditional log buildings, and extensive hiking trails offer a glimpse into a way of life that has largely disappeared elsewhere. The forest is also prime territory for spotting both moose and, occasionally, evidence of brown bears.

Medieval Cathedral Ruins at Hamar

The ruins of Hamar Cathedral, one of Norway's oldest medieval structures, now sit protected beneath a dramatic glass roof. The surrounding Hedmark Museum features an open-air collection of traditional rural buildings, offering insight into how people lived in this region for centuries.

Practical Tips for Your Hedmark Treehouse Adventure

• Best time for forests: Late spring through early autumn offers mild temperatures and long daylight hours. Autumn colors typically peak in late September.
• Best time for snow: December through March guarantees winter conditions, with ski resorts operating well into April.
• Getting there: Oslo Airport provides the main international gateway. From Oslo, driving to various parts of Hedmark takes between two and three hours. Train services connect Oslo with towns like Hamar and Elverum, with bus connections to more remote areas.
• Wildlife awareness: Moose are most active at dawn and dusk. If driving during these hours, maintain extra vigilance, particularly on forest roads.
• Pack for conditions: Weather can change quickly, especially in forested and higher elevation areas. Layered clothing works best year-round.

Claim Your Canopy

Hedmark invites you to experience Norway beyond the postcard fjords and crowded coastal routes. Here, ancient forests whisper stories of Viking roads and Finnish settlers, while modern-day moose roam beneath silver birch and towering pine. Book a treehouse now and let the rhythms of this remarkable region slow your pace, deepen your breath, and remind you what genuine wilderness feels like.