Family Adventure in Rondane National Park, Norway

Embracing the Heart of Rondane

Today was a day of exploration and immersion into the soul of Rondane National Park. As I reflect on our adventures, I'm filled with a sense of awe at the raw beauty and tranquility that this part of Norway offers. It's a landscape that whispers stories of ancient times, inviting you to become a part of its narrative. The crisp mountain air, the vast open spaces, and the sheer majesty of the surroundings have left an indelible mark on my heart.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Rondane Haukliseter Fjellhotel. Waking up in the mountains always feels special, and the breakfast spread was just what we needed to fuel our adventures. I enjoyed some strong coffee and traditional Norwegian waffles, while Maximilian opted for the local cheeses and cured meats. Sofia, of course, went straight for the pastries. It's funny how even in a new country, some things never change! The hotel itself was charming, with a rustic feel that made us feel right at home. I can certainly see why so many guests rave about the location, the views, and the warm hospitality. After breakfast, we packed our daypacks, making sure to include plenty of water, snacks, and our trusty travel guidebook. I still feel a pang of guilt about forgetting the binoculars, but we're managing without them.


Experience serene mountain escapes at Rondane Haukliseter Fjellhotel - your gateway to adventure in Norway's breathtaking landscapes.

Our first stop was Jora Bru at Dombås, a historic stone arch bridge. The drive there was scenic, with glimpses of the surrounding mountains. When we arrived, the bridge was even more impressive than I had imagined. Built between 1912 and 1919, it stands as a testament to the engineering feats of the past. We parked nearby and took the forest path down to the river, wanting to admire the bridge from below. The view was breathtaking, and I couldn’t help but think about all the history that this bridge has witnessed. Apparently, the Jora River saw its largest flood since Storofsen here, so the bridge is vital to Dombås. Sofia was fascinated by the rushing water and kept pointing out different shapes in the rocks. Maximilian, ever the history buff, read aloud from our guidebook, sharing interesting facts about the bridge's construction and its significance to the local community. He mentioned how it connects the banks of the Jori River, standing 58 meters above the water. It's amazing to think that this bridge has been standing for over a century, connecting people and places through time.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures of Jora Bru Dombås, Norway's gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Next on our itinerary was Smukksjøen, a serene lake nestled in the heart of Rondane National Park. The drive to the lake was equally stunning, with winding roads that offered panoramic views of the landscape. As we approached Smukksjøen, the scenery transformed into a tranquil paradise. The lake's crystal-clear waters reflected the surrounding mountains, creating a mirror-like effect that was simply mesmerizing. We parked the car and decided to take a leisurely hike along one of the marked trails. The air was fresh and clean, filled with the scent of pine trees and wildflowers. Sofia was thrilled to spot a few butterflies flitting about, and we even saw a couple of reindeer in the distance! I was so glad we decided to bring our hiking boots; the trails were a bit uneven in places, but nothing we couldn't handle. As we walked, we talked about the beauty of nature and the importance of preserving it for future generations. Smukksjøen is a hiker's paradise, and I could easily see why people come from all over the world to experience its beauty.


Explore the stunning hiking trails and breathtaking landscapes of Smukksjøen, Norway's hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

Lunch was a delightful experience at Rondane friluftssenter AS. We opted for their outdoor seating area, which offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape. I decided to try the home-made moose goulash, while Maximilian went for the vegetable soup. Sofia, predictably, chose the classic Norwegian waffles with sour cream and strawberry jam. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. We savored each bite, knowing that it was made with fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, and we felt like we could have stayed there for hours, just enjoying the scenery and the company. Before leaving, we browsed their small shop, picking up a few souvenirs to remind us of our time in Rondane.


Explore breathtaking landscapes and enjoy outdoor adventures at Rondane Friluftssenter - your gateway to nature's wonders in Norway.

As the afternoon progressed, we made our way to Rondane Fjellstue for dinner. This mountain lodge has a rich history, dating back to the early 1900s, and you could feel the stories in its walls. The setting was cozy and inviting, with a warm fireplace and rustic decor. For dinner, I chose the reindeer filet with creamed potatoes, while Maximilian opted for the mountain trout. Sofia enjoyed a simple but delicious plate of pasta. The food was hearty and comforting, perfect after a day of hiking and exploring. We lingered over our meal, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the company of our fellow diners. It's moments like these that make traveling so special – when you can connect with people from all walks of life over a shared meal and a stunning view.


Discover the natural beauty of Norway at Rondane Fjellstue—your perfect base for adventure in stunning Rondane National Park.

To cap off the evening, we decided to visit Lundekroa, a local bar in Dombås. It was a cozy little place with a friendly atmosphere. I enjoyed a glass of local beer, while Maximilian opted for a dram of Norwegian whiskey. Sofia sipped on a sparkling apple juice, feeling very grown-up. The bar was filled with locals and tourists alike, all sharing stories and laughter. We struck up a conversation with a couple from Germany who were also traveling through Norway. They shared some tips on places to visit, and we exchanged travel stories. It was a fun and relaxing way to end our day, and we felt like we had truly immersed ourselves in the local culture.


Explore the flavors of Norway at Lundekroa, a cozy bar and restaurant in the heart of Venabygd, offering a mix of local dishes and refreshing drinks.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from our cozy cabin, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Rondane National Park has exceeded all of my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. We're planning to visit Karlsvogna Fjellbad, a mountain spa, and explore Høvringen, a nearby hiking area. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, so that we can be ready for another day of adventure.

Tomorrow, we are planning to relax at Karlsvogna Fjellbad and hike around Høvringen. I'm looking forward to sharing those experiences with you all as well.

“Not all those who wander are lost.”

Until then, happy travels!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention! The weather was perfect today – sunny and mild, with a gentle breeze. It made our hikes even more enjoyable. I hope it stays this way for the rest of our trip!