Top 20 Lakes around Øystre Slidre

Øystre Slidre features a diverse range of lakes, including stunning glacial lakes like Bessvatnet and Gjende, known for their distinct colors and dramatic mountain backdrops. You'll also find large high-altitude reservoirs such as Lake Vinstre and Lake Øyangen, which are popular for fishing and various water activities.

Lake Gjende is famous for its vibrant emerald-green color, a result of rock flour from the Muru river. In contrast, Bessvatnet, located nearby, is renowned for its striking turquoise-blue waters. These two lakes offer a spectacular color contrast, especially when viewed from the Besseggen Ridge, as seen from the View of Gjende and Bessvatnet Lakes highlight.

Yes, several lakes in the region are excellent for fishing. Lake Vinstre is particularly well-regarded for trout fishing, with boat fishing often recommended. Lake Øyangen also offers good trout fishing and supports various related outdoor activities.

The lakes within Jotunheimen National Park, such as Bessvatnet and Gjende, are central to some of Norway's most iconic trekking routes. The famous Besseggen Ridge hike runs between Bessvatnet and Gjende. You can find more hiking options in the area by exploring the Hiking around Øystre Slidre guide.

Yes, Lake Gjende offers convenient boat services connecting various mountain lodges like Gjendesheim, Memurubu, and Gjendebu. These services are particularly useful for hikers tackling the Besseggen Ridge, allowing for flexible multi-day hiking adventures. The Memurubu ferry is a key part of this transport.

Lake Øyangen is a versatile destination offering a range of outdoor activities suitable for families, including boat rental, canoeing, kayaking, and even ice fishing during winter months. While specific family-friendly hikes around lakes are not detailed, many areas offer gentle shores for relaxation and picnicking.

The best time to visit the lakes for hiking and water activities is typically during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is milder and trails are clear of snow. For ice fishing, the winter months offer unique opportunities.

Mountain lodges and huts, such as the Memurubu Hut on Lake Gjende, provide accommodation options, especially for those undertaking multi-day treks. The nearby towns of Heggenes and Beitostølen also offer various accommodation choices.

The Jotunheimvegen, a summer toll road, runs along the northern shore of Lake Vinstre, offering scenic access and picturesque alpine views of rugged peaks and rolling hills.

Beyond hiking and fishing, the region around Øystre Slidre offers various outdoor pursuits. You can explore gravel biking routes, such as those found in the Gravel biking around Øystre Slidre guide, or discover running trails, detailed in the Running Trails around Øystre Slidre guide.

Many visitors enjoy cooling their feet in the clear, cold mountain waters. The Shore of Lake Bessvatnet is noted as a great spot for a break and to cool off in its crystal-clear water.