Gjendesheim Turisthytte has been a staffed lodge with Norwegian Mountain Touring Association ( – DNT). It is located in the heart of the Norwegian mountains in Vågå Municipality in Innlandet county, Norway. DNT Oslo og Omegn has been the proprietor since 1878. The lodge can accommodate 170 guests in bedrooms with 1, 2, and 4 beds in four dormitories. The standard is simple; with bunks and bathroom facilities.
Gjendesheim is situated at the east end of Gjende lake, at an elevation of above sea level. It is located about from Maurvangen off Norwegian County Road 51.
Gjendesheim is a popular starting point for hiking over Besseggen. Hikers either take one of the ferry boats to Memurubu and hike back to Gejendesheim over Besseggen or alternatively start the hike at Gjendesheim and take the ferry boat back.
History Originally Gjendesheim was planned for construction near Leirungen which is located further up towards Valdresflya. When securing a lot proved impossible, Gjendesheim was constructed at its current location.
1868: The foundation of Norwegian Mountain Touring Association (DNT) 1873: DNTs first cairn marked path established from Memurudalen to Bessvatnet 1878: The opening of Gjendesheim 1890: The first development and restoration with new cuisine, several renovations in 1898, 1904–05, 1910–11, 1916 and 1925 1937: New main building and renovation of dormitories 1974: Installation of electricity 1976: New extensive renovation
Hosts at Gjendesheim
1878-1901: Anders Rusnes 1901-1920: Kari Rusnes 1920-1950: Ragnhild Repp 1950-1952: Bjørg Hult Nystrøm 1952-1958: Marit and Jens Skogstad 1959-1974: Åslaug and Nils Vole 1975-1977: Sonja and Olav Gaute Vole 1977-1980: Olav Gaute Vole 1980-2010: Bjørg Aaseng Vole and Olav Gaute Vole Since 2010: Marius Haugaløkken and Anne Katrin Taagvold
External links Gjendesheim Gjende Boats The Norwegian Trekking Association information on Gjendesheim