Lakes around Lom, a village in Norway, serve as a gateway to Jotunheimen National Park, an area characterized by mountainous landscapes. The region features notable lakes such as Gjende and Bessvatnet, known for their distinct colors. Gjende is recognized for its emerald-green glacial waters, while Bessvatnet is known for its deep blue hue. These lakes are central to the area's outdoor activities, including popular hiking routes.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
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A beautiful, spacious, and comfortable cabin. The cabin can be reached either by boat or via the hiking trail that runs north of Lake Gjende from the eastern to the western end of the lake. From the cabin, you can take a day hike to the summit of Surtningssue Mountain.
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One of the most beautiful points on the hike. A spectacular view with the two lakes and their bright colors.
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Beautiful crystal-clear mountain lake below the Bessegengrat. This is a great place to take a lunch break and cool your feet in the cold water.
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Depending on the direction, the ridge route ends or begins here.
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Phenomenally beautiful view of the two lakes Gjende and Bessvatnet, separated by the Bessegen ridge.
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Enables a variety of different shortcuts and tour options, which offers a very practical flexibility, especially when planning multi-day tours. In bad weather, you can also avoid the demanding passages along Lake Gjende (Besseggen, Bukkelaegret). The luggage transport is also very comfortable and recommendable for the ascent of the Besseggen.
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The most notable lakes are Lake Gjende and Lake Bessvatnet, both renowned for their distinct colors and the stunning mountainous landscapes of Jotunheimen National Park. Lake Gjende is famous for its emerald-green glacial waters, while Lake Bessvatnet is known for its deep blue hue.
You can witness a striking visual contrast between the emerald-green glacial waters of Lake Gjende and the deep blue waters of Lake Bessvatnet. A popular spot for this is the View of Gjende and Bessvatnet Lakes, where the two lakes are separated by the narrow Besseggen Ridge.
Yes, the lakes around Lom, especially Gjende and Bessvatnet, are central to many hiking opportunities. The iconic Besseggen Ridge hike, one of Norway's most popular treks, offers breathtaking views. You can find various running and hiking trails in the area, including challenging routes like the Besseggen Ridge itself. Explore more options on the Running Trails around Lom guide.
Hikers can find facilities such as the Gjendebu cabin, the Norwegian Trekking Association's oldest cabin, located directly on the shores of Lake Gjende. Another option is the Memurubu Hut, which serves as a popular start or end point for hikes and offers a place to rest.
A boat service, known as Gjendebåten, operates on Lake Gjende during the summer. This service, accessible via the Memurubu ferry, transports hikers to different trailheads like Memurubu, allowing for various hiking routes, including ascents of Besseggen. It's advisable to check timetables as services may be limited.
The best time to visit is typically during the summer months when the boat service on Lake Gjende is operational, and the weather is most favorable for hiking and outdoor activities. This period allows you to fully experience the trails and the distinct colors of the lakes.
Yes, the Shore of Lake Bessvatnet is a beautiful crystal-clear mountain lake, often used as a break spot before ascending the Besseggen Ridge. It's a great place to take a lunch break and cool your feet in the cold water.
Visitors particularly enjoy the spectacular views, especially the striking color contrast between Lake Gjende's green glacial water and Lake Bessvatnet's deep blue. The opportunity for challenging and scenic hikes, such as the Besseggen Ridge, is also a major draw, along with the pristine natural environment.
Yes, the region around Lom offers various cycling routes. You can explore different terrains, from easy loops to more challenging mountain bike trails. For more details, refer to the Cycling around Lom guide and the MTB Trails around Lom guide.
Yes, cabins like Gjendebu and Memurubu Hut offer accommodation and are popular stopovers for hikers. They also provide opportunities for coffee or meals, especially during the summer season.
While some hikes, like Besseggen, are demanding, the general area offers stunning natural beauty that families can enjoy. Shorter, easier walks around the lake shores or boat trips on Lake Gjende can be family-friendly activities, allowing everyone to experience the unique landscapes.


Still not found your perfect lake around Lom? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.