Family Adventure in Rondane National Park, Norway

Chasing Horizons and Local Delights

Today was all about embracing the journey, letting the winding roads of Rondane National Park lead us to unexpected treasures. With Maximilian behind the wheel and Sofia eagerly pointing out every reindeer-shaped cloud, we set off for a day filled with scenic drives and delightful culinary experiences. It's days like these that remind me why we cherish these family adventures so much.

Our morning started with a hearty breakfast at Rondane Høyfjellshotell. The buffet was simple but satisfying, just what we needed to fuel our adventures. I enjoyed some traditional Norwegian brown cheese, while Sofia devoured a stack of pancakes. Maximilian, ever the practical one, made sure we all had packed lunches for our day out. Rondane Høyfjellshotell is closed from August 2023 to August 2025, so we are glad to have experienced it before it closes. After breakfast, we packed up our trusty Volvo and headed towards Otta stolene. The drive itself was a treat, with the landscape unfolding before us in all its summer glory. The sun was shining, the sky was a brilliant blue, and the air was crisp and clean. The drive took us through quaint villages and past shimmering lakes, each view more breathtaking than the last.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Otta Stolene, a hidden gem in the heart of Norway's stunning landscape.

Otta stolene turned out to be a hidden gem. The area offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. We parked the car and took a short walk to a vantage point where we could soak in the panoramic vista. Sofia, with her boundless energy, was thrilled to explore the rocky terrain, while Maximilian and I simply enjoyed the peace and quiet of the Norwegian wilderness. I tried to capture the beauty with my camera, but no photo could truly do it justice. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the simple joys of being together in nature.

The best journeys are those that lead us not only to new places but also to new perspectives.

Next on our itinerary was the Peer Gynt seterveg, a scenic drive that promised even more spectacular views. As we drove along the partially unpaved road, we were surrounded by lush forests, sparkling streams, and charming mountain farms. The Peer Gynt Seterveg is a beautiful toll route that runs from Vinstra to Kvam through the mountains at the Rondane National Park. The road is only open part of the year, from mid-June to mid-October, when it's not snowing. The road is named after the play Peer Gynt written in 1867 by Hendrik Ibsen. The road was indeed a treat, offering a glimpse into the heart of Norway's natural beauty. We stopped at several viewpoints along the way, each offering a unique perspective on the landscape. Sofia was particularly fascinated by the old wooden fences that lined the road, imagining that they were built by trolls and fairies. Her imagination always adds an extra layer of magic to our travels.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich folklore at Peer Gynt Seterveg, a captivating tourist attraction in Norway's Kvam region.

By lunchtime, we had worked up quite an appetite. We decided to stop at Rondane Fjellstue for a bite to eat. The Fjellstue is an old mountain lodge built in the early 1900s, with a lot of history in the walls. The Fjellstue is located in the middle of Mysusæter, right on the border of Rondane National Park. The cozy atmosphere and the smell of traditional Norwegian food wafting from the kitchen were incredibly inviting. We sat down at a wooden table and ordered a selection of local specialties. I opted for the *rømmegrøt*, a traditional sour cream porridge, while Maximilian chose the *spekemat*, a platter of cured meats. Sofia, of course, went for the *vafler*, Norwegian waffles with jam and sour cream. The food was hearty and delicious, exactly what we needed after a morning of exploring.


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

After lunch, we decided to take a short detour to the Pillarguri Cafe in Otta, enticed by its reputation as a local gem. This cafe is Otta's oldest cafe with a long tradition of serving food and accommodation. Pillarguri Cafe specializes in Norwegian cuisine. Tasting good steak burgers, pasta and bacon is what many guests advise. The cafe is at the centre of everything from fresh cinnamon rolls and pizza baked in its own pizza bakery to dishes based on local treats from, among others, Avdem Gardsysteri, Aukrust gard og urteri and Lom brewery. The cafe was bustling with locals, and the aroma of freshly baked goods filled the air. We ordered some pastries and coffee, and sat outside to enjoy the lively atmosphere. Sofia was particularly delighted by the *skillingsboller*, cinnamon buns, declaring them the best she had ever tasted. It was a perfect way to experience a taste of local life.


Discover the flavors of Norway at Pillarguri Cafe, where local ingredients meet cozy hospitality in the heart of Otta.

As evening approached, we made our way to Parken Grill & Cafèbar for dinner. Located in the picturesque town of Otta, Parken Grill & Cafèbar is known for its delicious food offerings. The menu features an array of options, from classic Norwegian dishes to international favorites. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients. We enjoyed a relaxed meal, reminiscing about the day's adventures. I chose a traditional Norwegian dish, while Maximilian went for a hearty burger. Sofia, predictably, ordered pizza. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover delicious dining at Parken Grill & Cafèbar in Otta - where classic diner favorites meet modern culinary delights.

Before heading back to our campsite, we made a quick stop at the Pillarguri Cafe again, this time to experience it as a bar. The Pillarguri Cafe offers a welcoming bar and cafeteria setting where tourists can unwind with a cup of coffee or indulge in a refreshing drink. We enjoyed a relaxing drink, reflecting on the day's adventures. It was a perfect way to unwind and soak in the cozy atmosphere of Otta.

As we drove back, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The mountains were silhouetted against the sky, and the air was filled with the scent of pine trees. It was a magical moment, one that I knew we would all remember for years to come. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about creating lasting memories together.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Hælvfarlèlia and Wasserfall, hoping to discover more of Rondane's natural beauty. We'll also have breakfast at Rondane Gjestegård, lunch at Rondane Haukliseter Fjellhotel, and dinner at Rondane Fjellstue. Before we leave, we'll make a stop at Cubus for some last-minute shopping. As our trip nears its end, I am filled with a sense of contentment and anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead.

The beauty of Rondane National Park is truly captivating. It's a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. The scenic drives, charming villages, and delicious local food make it a perfect destination for a family adventure. Each day here brings new discoveries and unforgettable moments. I feel so grateful to share this experience with Maximilian and Sofia. These are the memories we will cherish forever.

The fresh air, the stunning views, and the shared laughter – these are the things that make our family trips so special. As we settle into our tent tonight, I can't help but smile, grateful for another day of adventure in this beautiful corner of the world. We are tired, but our hearts are full of joy and appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us. Rondane has truly captured our hearts, and I know we will be back again someday.

As I reflect on our day, I realize that the true beauty of travel lies not just in the places we visit, but in the moments we share with the people we love. The laughter, the shared experiences, and the quiet moments of connection – these are the things that make our journeys so meaningful. And as we continue our adventure in Rondane, I am excited to see what tomorrow will bring.

The journey continues, and I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all. Until then, happy travels!