Gargia Valley
A secluded Arctic lodge offering cozy stays, delicious food, and prime Northern Lights viewing with thrilling winter activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for Northern Lights
Gargia Valley
Best Time
Best for Northern Lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded Arctic lodge offering cozy stays, delicious food, and prime Northern Lights viewing with thrilling winter activities.
"Wonderful, unexpected experience, whole heartedly recommend a stay here!"
Warm up in the Sauna
Don't miss the sauna, even in -20°C! Bring slippers, as bare feet are only for the brave. :snowflake:
Book Activities Ahead
Easily book snowmobiling or dog sledding online or at reception. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Northern Lights Viewing
Gargia Valley
Witness the magical aurora borealis dance across the Arctic sky in a location with minimal light pollution.
Dog Sledding Adventure
Gargia Lodge
Experience the thrill of being pulled by a team of huskies through snowy landscapes.
Cozy Lodge Ambiance
Gargia Lodge
Relax in a warm, rustic lodge with delicious food and stunning views of the surrounding nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Remote Charm
Aurora Hunting Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Warm up in the Sauna
Don't miss the sauna, even in -20°C! Bring slippers, as bare feet are only for the brave. :snowflake:
Book Activities Ahead
Easily book snowmobiling or dog sledding online or at reception. :ticket:
Odds of seeing the Northern Lights and importance of a tour?
Pack Extra Layers
Arctic weather is no joke! Multiple warm layers are essential for enjoying outdoor activities. :coat:
Dietary Needs? No Problem!
The lodge is accommodating for vegetarian and other dietary needs. :forkandknife:
Tips
from all over the internet
Warm up in the Sauna
Don't miss the sauna, even in -20°C! Bring slippers, as bare feet are only for the brave. :snowflake:
Book Activities Ahead
Easily book snowmobiling or dog sledding online or at reception. :ticket:
Pack Extra Layers
Arctic weather is no joke! Multiple warm layers are essential for enjoying outdoor activities. :coat:
Dietary Needs? No Problem!
The lodge is accommodating for vegetarian and other dietary needs. :forkandknife:
Embrace the Seclusion
Gargia Lodge is remote (30 mins from shops), so plan accordingly. :round_pushpin:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Gargia Valley's tranquil, remote setting and the exceptional hospitality of Gargia Lodge. The opportunity to witness the Northern Lights and participate in thrilling winter activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling are major highlights. While the food is delicious, it can be on the pricier side, and the secluded location requires some planning.
"Due to an issue with Norwegian Airlines, we were forced to lay over here for 24 hours…. What a fantastic experience!!… The welcome from Rose was great, the food was hearty and simply delicious and the bed in my Room, no.1 was simply like sleeping on clouds…. Wonderful, unexpected experience, whole heartedly recommend a stay here!"
Simon Kennedy
"An absolute blissful location and fulfilled every wish we had for a stay in Norway. Tranquil setting, with stunning scenery and friendly, hospitable hosts. Nothing was too much trouble and they were able to cater to my vegetarian dietary requirements. The food was delicious and it was lovely getting to eat in the lodge with beautiful views out into the trees and hillside. We’ve always dreamed of staying in a log cabin next to snowy mountains but aren’t confident driving on the opposite side of the road so we’re glad to find a holiday package which meant we were able to get somewhere that felt remote, easily. The accommodation was clean, warm and cosy. The activities were brilliant, especially the dog sledding and we enjoyed the snowmobiling in the darkness. I would throughly recommend."
B W
"We spent some days there in January to watch aurora borealis (aka northern lights). The lodge is really a good place, far out in the country side, not much light pollution. The team is so helpful and they really take care to make it a good stay, very personal and considering. Like visiting friends you know for ages. Everything is not large scale but very individual, loved the sauna at -20 (do take slippers, barefoot only for 2 minutes). This place is authentic and not about super luxury, and well worth the price. Fully recommend snow mobile, dogsledding (have ample time to cuddle the huskies, if you like dogs)!"
PIZZA LP
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gargia Valley is located about a 30-minute drive from Alta. Hiring a car is a convenient option, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. Public transport options are limited due to the remote location.
Driving in winter conditions in Norway requires caution. Roads are generally well-maintained, but it's advisable to have winter tires and be prepared for snow and ice. Some visitors prefer to arrange transport through their accommodation.
While possible, it's less convenient. Some accommodations may offer transfer services, or you could look into local taxi services from Alta. It's best to confirm transport arrangements in advance.
The nearest airport is Alta Airport (ALF). From there, you would typically rent a car or arrange for onward transportation to Gargia Valley.
Yes, many Northern Lights tours and winter activity packages departing from Alta often include transportation to remote viewing locations like Gargia Valley.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your stay in advance, especially during peak seasons like winter when visitors come for the Northern Lights.
Gargia Valley is a natural area, so there are no specific entrance fees to access the valley. Fees would apply to activities or accommodation within the valley.
Activities can usually be booked online through the lodge's website or directly with reception upon arrival. Booking in advance is advised to secure your spot.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check with Gargia Lodge directly for the most up-to-date information on restaurant and facility hours.
While possible, many visitors find the experience most rewarding with an overnight stay to fully enjoy the tranquility and activities. Day visits might be limited by transport and activity availability.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular activities include Northern Lights viewing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, and enjoying the sauna and outdoor hot tub. Snowshoeing is also a great way to explore. +1
Yes, families can enjoy the unique winter activities and the cozy lodge atmosphere. Dog sledding and snowmobiling are often highlights for children.
Gargia Valley's remote location offers excellent dark skies. While you can see them from the lodge, joining a guided tour can increase your chances and provide insights.
Dress in warm, layered clothing. Thermal base layers, insulated mid-layers, and a waterproof/windproof outer shell are essential. Don't forget a warm hat, gloves, and sturdy, insulated boots.
Absolutely! The surrounding nature offers beautiful trails for hiking in warmer months and snowshoeing in winter. It's a great way to experience the Arctic landscape.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The lodge offers hearty, delicious meals. They are known for catering to dietary requirements, including vegetarian options. +1
Yes, the lodge is very accommodating and can prepare vegetarian meals upon request.
Dining can be a bit pricey, with a two-course dinner (including dessert and alcohol) costing around 100 GBP for two people.
Gargia Lodge is quite secluded, about a 30-minute drive from the nearest shops in Alta. It's advisable to plan your meals around the lodge's offerings.
Typically, breakfast is included with lodge stays, but it's always best to confirm this when booking your accommodation.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire valley offers stunning natural landscapes. Look for scenic viewpoints along the roads, the frozen rivers, and of course, the Northern Lights.
Yes, its remote location with minimal light pollution makes it an ideal spot for capturing the aurora. A tripod and a camera with good low-light performance are recommended.
For general landscape photography, a wide-angle lens is great. For Northern Lights, a fast lens (low f-number) and a sturdy tripod are essential. Don't forget extra batteries, as cold drains them quickly.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy taking photos with the friendly huskies, especially before or after dog sledding tours. Be sure to ask permission from the handlers.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for landscape shots. Winter days are short, so plan your photography sessions accordingly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking activities in advance to ensure availability for your family. The opportunity to interact with the huskies before dog sledding is a special treat for animal-loving kids. Remember to pack plenty of warm clothing for everyone to ensure maximum enjoyment of the outdoor activities.
🌌 Aurora Enthusiasts
While self-viewing is possible, many recommend booking a guided aurora tour. These tours often provide transportation to optimal viewing spots, hot drinks, and expert knowledge about the aurora, increasing your chances of a successful sighting.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Joining group activities like dog sledding or snowmobiling is a perfect way to experience the adventure and connect with fellow travelers. The lodge's personal touch ensures that even solo visitors feel well looked after.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Chasing the Aurora Borealis
Tips for Aurora Viewing: Dress in extremely warm layers, as nights can be very cold. Bring a tripod for photography and be patient – the aurora can be elusive. Some lodges offer aurora wake-up calls, so you don't miss a spectacular display.
While Gargia Valley offers a fantastic natural backdrop, remember that aurora sightings are never guaranteed. The magic lies in the anticipation and the breathtaking experience when the lights do appear.
Winter Activities Extravaganza
Snowmobiling offers a faster-paced adventure, perfect for exploring further afield and experiencing the vastness of the Arctic wilderness. For a more serene exploration, snowshoeing is an excellent option, allowing you to traverse quiet, snow-covered trails and enjoy the pristine nature at your own pace.
After a day of adventure, the sauna at Gargia Lodge provides a perfect way to warm up and relax. The contrast of the hot sauna with the freezing Arctic air is a unique and invigorating experience. Remember to bring slippers, as going barefoot on the cold floor is only for the truly hardy!
The Gargia Lodge Experience
The lodge's restaurant serves hearty and delicious food, with a notable ability to cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian options. Dining with views of the surrounding trees and hillsides adds to the charm.
What truly stands out is the hospitality. Staff are frequently described as friendly, hospitable, and incredibly helpful, making guests feel like they are visiting old friends. This personal touch elevates the stay from a simple visit to a memorable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit