2 Day Guided Snowkite Course in Hardangervidda

Introduction: Unveiling the Snowkiting Adventure in Hardangervidda

If you’re looking for a truly unique way to explore Norway’s winter landscape, a 2-day guided snowkiting course on Hardangervidda might just be the highlight of your trip. This experience promises to introduce you to the exhilarating sport of snowkiting, with expert guidance, stunning scenery, and a chance to learn a new skill in one of Europe’s most beautiful national parks. What’s especially appealing here is the flexibility of the course, suitable for all ages from 9 to over 70, and the promise of becoming independent on your kite after just a couple of days.

Two features truly stand out: first, the expert guidance from instructors like Valentin, who is praised for his relaxed yet highly knowledgeable teaching style, making beginners feel comfortable from the start. Second, the scenic variety of locations within Hardangervidda, allowing you to kite across different parts of this vast national park, with breathtaking views that make every second on the snow extra special.

One thing to keep in mind is that you need to bring your own skis or snowboard—gear rentals are available nearby in Geilo—but everything else, from the kite, harness, bar, to the pump, is included in the course fee. A possible consideration is that the course is limited to just six participants, which ensures personalized attention but also means you should book early.

Key points / Takeaways

• All-inclusive gear: The course provides all necessary kiting equipment, allowing you to focus on learning rather than shopping for gear.
• Accessible for all ages: From as young as 9 years old to seniors, this course welcomes a wide age range, emphasizing that snowkiting is easier to pick up than you might think.
• Expert guides: Guides like Valentin receive high praise for their helpfulness, knowledge, and chill attitude, making the experience enjoyable and educational.
• Stunning landscape: The course explores different parts of Hardangervidda National Park, offering incredible views and varied terrain.
• Short learning curve: Most students are kite-ready and blasting around within a few hours, thanks to clear instruction and supportive coaching.
• Flexible schedule & cancellation: Operating from late January to mid-April, with the option to cancel free up to 24 hours in advance.

Exploring Norway’s Winter Wonderland with a Snowkiting Course

For those of us who love outdoor sports that combine thrill, scenery, and a dash of adventure, snowkiting in Norway delivers on all counts. I love the idea of taking a sport that’s often associated with warm-weather windsurfing and turning it into an exhilarating winter activity. The course’s reputation for being fun, safe, and accessible is reinforced by glowing reviews from past participants, who emphasize the high quality of instruction and the jaw-dropping landscapes.

The meeting point at Haugastøl provides a convenient base, and from there, your guides will take you to different spots within Hardangervidda, ensuring each session feels fresh and inspiring. The landscape is truly something special—vast, open, and covered in snow, with panoramic views of mountains and icy lakes. You might find yourself kiteboarding over frozen lakes within hours, feeling a rush similar to snowboarding or skiing but with the added element of flying in the air.

What You Can Expect on Your Two Days

The first part of your adventure is a theory session indoors, lasting about an hour. Here, you’ll learn the fundamentals—how to rig your kite, safety procedures, and basic techniques. This indoor prep is invaluable, especially since snowkiting involves understanding wind patterns and kite control. I appreciate guides like Valentin who go above and beyond to answer questions beforehand, making sure everyone feels confident before heading out in the snow.

After the theory, you’ll head outside to put your skills into practice. The terrain on Hardangervidda is ideal for beginners—wide open, with plenty of space to learn at your own pace. Many participants report that the progression is astonishing; most are kiteboarding on skis within about 56 hours, which is remarkable considering most other sports take much longer to master. You’ll love how quickly you see results, and the pure joy of gliding across the snow with the wind in your hair.

The landscape plays a starring role—the unspoiled snow, the distant mountain peaks, and the vast plateaus make every session feel like you’re in your own winter wonderland. Several reviewers mention how they blasted around on frozen lakes within hours, and that the scenery alone makes the experience worth every penny.

The Guides and Teaching Style

Valentin, who was highlighted in reviews, is described as “super chilled,” highly knowledgeable, and helpful—creating an atmosphere where you can relax and focus on learning. The small group limit (just six participants) means personalized coaching, which speeds up your progress and ensures safety. Many participants say that guides truly go above and beyond to make sure everyone is comfortable, making this experience suitable even for complete beginners.

The Equipment and Logistical Details

The course includes all the gear you need—kite, harness, bar, pump—so you don’t have to worry about lugging your own equipment. However, you need to bring your own skis or snowboard, or rent them in nearby Geilo. The flexibility to rent gear locally is helpful, especially if you’re flying into Oslo or Bergen and want to avoid hauling bulky equipment across the country.

Operating from late January through early April, the schedule offers plenty of options, with activities running daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. The warmest part of the day offers the best conditions, as wind tends to be steadier.

Cost and Value

At around $426.55 per person for a two-day course, the price might seem steep at first glance. However, when you factor in all the equipment, professional guidance, and the unforgettable scenery, it becomes clear that this is a solid value for those interested in trying something new and exciting. Participants consistently mention how much they learned in a short period and how the experience exceeds their expectations, especially considering the price includes all gear but not your skis, snowboards, or accommodation.

Who Will Love This?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor sports, scenic landscapes, and learning new skills. It’s ideal for those with a moderate level of physical fitness, as the activity involves standing and balancing for extended periods. Kids as young as nine seem to do well with proper supervision, and older participants appreciate the relaxing pace and expert guidance. If you enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or even windsurfing, you’ll find snowkiting to be a natural extension of your existing skills.

Wrapping Up: Who Should Consider a Snowkiting Course in Norway?

If you’re after a fun, adrenaline-filled activity that combines the thrill of winter sports with the beauty of Norway’s rugged landscape, this 2-day guided snowkiting course is a winner. The small class size and knowledgeable guides ensure personalized attention, so even complete beginners can expect to leave feeling confident and exhilarated. The scenery alone makes it worth the price—imagine flying across a snow-covered plateau with mountain peaks looming in the background.

This adventure is perfect for those who love outdoor sports, are curious about trying something different, or want to add a new skill to their winter arsenal. It’s especially suited for active travelers who enjoy learning in a safe, supportive environment, and for families or groups who want a shared, memorable experience.

In the end, snowkiting in Norway offers not just a sport, but a way to truly connect with the winter landscape—an experience that’s hard to beat.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Snowkiting Course Answered

Can I participate if I’ve never snowskied or snowboarded before?
Yes. Many participants learn to kite on skis within a few hours, especially with the expert guidance. The course is designed to be accessible for beginners and those of all ages.

What equipment do I need to bring?
You should bring your own skis or snowboard, as these are not included. Gear rentals are available in Geilo if needed. All kiting gear is provided during the course.

Is the course suitable for children?
Yes, children as young as 9 are welcome, but it’s best if they are comfortable with outdoor winter activities and moderate physical activity.

What are the best months for this course?
The course operates from January 23rd to April 12th, when snow conditions and wind tend to be optimal for snowkiting.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 6 travelers, which allows for personalized coaching and safety.

Do I need any prior experience?
No prior experience is necessary. The indoor theory session prepares you well for practical snowkiting.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less than 24 hours’ notice means no refund.

Are there any health restrictions I should know about?
It’s recommended to have moderate physical fitness. If you have health concerns, contact the provider beforehand for advice.

What should I wear?
Bring warm, waterproof winter clothing—think layers, insulated jackets, gloves, and hats—since you’ll be outdoors most of the time.

Can I book this experience last-minute?
Yes, if booked more than 18 hours in advance, you’ll receive confirmation quickly. However, slots are limited, so early booking is advised.

This snowkiting course offers a fantastic way to experience Norway’s winter landscape actively and authentically. With professional guidance, stunning scenery, and a supportive learning environment, it’s a memorable adventure waiting to happen.