Universal Design and Accessibility in Geilo

 

We have gathered useful resources and tips on universal design and accessibility in Geilo. Our goal is to make the destination an inclusive place where everyone, regardless of ability, can participate in activities, enjoy nature, and experience events. In Geilo, there are many services that are either already adapted or can be tailored to meet various needs, including ski schools, sleigh rides, dog sledding, summer park, kennel visits, accommodations, and various attractions.

Activities All Year Round

In Geilo, several activity providers can accommodate various abilities. While you can book activities here, we recommend contacting the provider directly in advance. This allows them to prepare and ensure you have the best possible experience!

Horse sleigh ride at Geilo
© © Paul Lockhart

Winter horseback riding and sleigh rides

Magical riding adventures year-round at Geilo! Discover everything you need to know about winter riding and cozy sleigh rides, perfect for

Read more
hundekjøring

Dog sledding

Experience dog sledding in the heart of the National Park Village Geilo, where you can drive your own team of some of Norway's most

Read more
Langedrag
© © Paul Lockhart

Langedrag Nature Park

Langedrag Nature Park is located between Numedal and Hallingdal, just an hour's drive from Geilo. Visit the park for close encounters

Read more
sommerpark

Geilo Summer Park

Geilo Summer Park offers a wide range of activities for the whole family, including a climbing park, lift-accessed biking, frisbee golf,

Read more

Skiing in Geilo

Geilo Ski School at Slaatta offers a program called "Snow Sports for All," where trained and experienced instructors provide private lessons for those needing special accommodations. The ski school is equipped with specialized gear such as junior Bi-skis, adult sit-skis, and outriggers. SkiGeilo ski school is located in the Vestlia base area, which is accessible for wheelchair users with ramp access, available restrooms, and sit-ski options in the lift.

Geilo also provides free lift passes for companions with a companion pass, both in summer and winter!

Culture and Hiking Opportunities in Geilo

Here you’ll find a selection of trails that can easily be combined with cultural experiences, all located near Geilo town center. The pedestrian street and various shopping centers are well-equipped with clear signage, elevators, and accessible parking at all main entrances.

Geilojordet og Ustedalsfjordenrundt passer til alle og er både en flott gåtur og sykkeltur
© © Paul Lockhart

Geilojordet

This charming farmstead, located in the heart of Geilo town center, features historic buildings from the 1700s, 1800s, and 1900s, arranged as a traditional farmyard. In the summer, it becomes a true gem with a café, guided tours of the historic houses, a playground, live animals, and a pleasant atmosphere. Geilojordet offers universally designed benches and nearby parking, ensuring easy access for everyone.

Geilo Kulturkyrkje

Geilo Cultural Church is located directly across from Geilojordet, with an asphalted underpass and ample parking for easy access. The church is a popular venue for various cultural events, exhibitions, and has a café. The church's architecture is worth a visit in itself. It features wheelchair-accessible entry through the main entrance, an accessible restroom, and is equipped with a hearing loop system.

ustedalsfjorden

Ustedalsfjorden

This is a beautiful 10 km trail that loops around the fjord. You can choose to complete the entire loop or just part of it. The trail features designated rest areas and informational signs about the area's culture and history. The surface consists of a mix of gravel and dirt, making it suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, and similar needs. For the most current information on trail conditions or advice on which sections best meet your needs, it's recommended to contact the tourist information center.

Fishing Spot at Slåttahølen

A short walk from Geilo Cultural Church leads you to an accessible handicap-friendly dock with excellent fishing opportunities. Next to the dock, you'll find a cozy shelter with a fire pit. Access is via a 250-meter gravel and fine-pick walkway. We recommend parking at Geilo Cultural Church. For more information on accessible fishing spots in the area, visit: Geilo Fiskeplasser for bevegelseshemmede - NJFF.

Rundt Geilo Kulturkirke finnes det en barnevennlig tur til fiskebrua som passer alle og hele året.
© © Paul Lockhart

Universally Accessible Accommodation in Geilo

In Geilo and the surrounding area, several accommodations offer universally accessible lodging. Below is an overview of those that have confirmed their facilities and services:

 

Ustedalen Hotel & Resort - Offers 3 wheelchair-accessible apartments in the D-building. Both the reception and restaurant are also accessible.

Langedrag Nature Park - Provides wheelchair-accessible rooms. The nature park is approximately a 45-minute drive from Geilo.

Storestølen Fjellhotell - Features one universally accessible apartment, along with another apartment and a room that are allergy-friendly. The hotel is about a 45-minute drive from Geilo.

Dr. Holms Hotel - Includes two universally accessible rooms, one standard and one superior. If these rooms are occupied, they will do their best to find an alternative solution. The restaurant is accessible for wheelchair users, and the pool area can be used, though the hotel unfortunately does not have a pool lift.

Tuva Tourist Hut - This over 100-year-old mountain lodge cannot offer universally accessible accommodation due to its historic construction. However, it is recommended to contact the hosts directly to discuss possible arrangements. Tuva Turisthytte is located on Hardangervidda, with a road that is only open in summer and fall.

Geilolia Hyttetun - Completed a wheelchair-accessible cabin in December 2023. Pets are allowed in all cabins, but the apartments in town are allergy-friendly.

Vestlia Resort - Has 6 accessible family rooms and 1 suite with one bedroom. They also offer allergy-friendly rooms. The youth rooms, restaurant, conference rooms, and common restrooms are also accessible. The spa area is on the ground floor, but unfortunately, there is no accessible changing room or pool lift.

Bardøla Fjelltun - Provides one accessible studio apartment with a balcony and several allergy-friendly rooms. Common areas such as the reception, restaurant, and restrooms are also accessible.

Highland Lodge - Features 3 allergy-friendly rooms and a range of accessible facilities, including a playroom, gym, restaurant, bakery, and swimming pool, although the pool area lacks a ramp or pool lift.

Additional Useful Information

Parking - There are several well-designed handicap parking spaces near the pedestrian street and shops in Geilo town center.

Toilets - Universally accessible restrooms are available in the pedestrian street, shopping centers, and at the train station in Geilo town center.

Companions - Companions with a companion pass receive free lift passes both in summer and winter.

Transport - Bergensbanen stops in the heart of Geilo town center. The train station has recently been upgraded with an elevator for easy access to both tracks. The waiting room features a wheelchair ramp and accessible restroom, with handicap parking available right by the station.

What is Universal Design?

Universal design involves creating solutions and accommodations that enable as many people as possible to access and use various places, products, and services, regardless of ability. The goal is to promote equity and inclusion, ensuring that everyone, regardless of needs or conditions, can participate on an equal basis. This approach helps prevent discrimination and fosters a better understanding of the diversity of human needs.

Useful links:

Pollen warning

Air quality in Geilo