Bessvatnet
Lake Mountain lake in Innlandet, Norway, scenic.
Bessvatnet sits beside the Besseggen ridge in Jotunheimen National Park; hikers cross the famous ridge to view the lake’s contrasting colours and Alpine peaks on established trails.
Bessvatnet is a freshwater lake in Innlandet county in Norway, lying within a mountainous and sparsely settled part of the region. It is one of many alpine lakes that characterise the inland highlands.
The lake is approached via mountain trails and is used for outdoor recreation such as walking, photography and sometimes fishing, depending on local regulations. The surrounding terrain is typical of Norway’s inland mountain areas, with open slopes and occasional patches of forest.
There is no prominent historical narrative tied to the lake; like many lakes in the region, it has been part of traditional land use for grazing and seasonal travel routes.
Set within Innlandet’s upland landscape, the lake sits in a remote mountainous area away from major urban centres and is reached by local roads and footpaths leading into the high country.
- Access: As an alpine lake in Innlandet county it is typically accessed from nearby mountain trails and is part of local recreational networks for hiking and fishing.
How to Get to Bessvatnet #
Access from trailheads in the Lom municipality and paths that connect with Jotunheimen hiking routes. Nearest larger access points include the village of Lom and road E6 connections.
Tips for Visiting Bessvatnet #
- The trail around Bessvatnet is best done in clear weather for views of surrounding Jotunheim peaks.
- Combine a visit with hikes in the adjacent Jotunheimen National Park for a fuller alpine experience.
- Expect alpine conditions above the treeline; layers and wind protection are advisable even in summer.
Best Time to Visit Bessvatnet #
Summer months are most accessible; spring offers dramatic meltwater but more variable footing.
Weather & Climate near Bessvatnet #
Bessvatnet's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -13°C to 12°C. Moderate rainfall (837 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -6°C and lows of -13°C. Moderate rainfall (74 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -13°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -12°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -8°C. Moderate rainfall (36 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of -3°C. Moderate rainfall (43 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 1°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. The wettest month with 89 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Regular rainfall (88 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -4°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -9°C. Moderate rainfall (78 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -12°C. Moderate rainfall (73 mm) and mostly overcast skies.