Family Adventure in Rondane National Park, Norway

Chasing Waterfalls and Mountain Views

Today was all about embracing the raw beauty of Rondane National Park, and what a day it turned out to be! We ventured off the beaten path, exploring scenic routes and majestic waterfalls that left us breathless. It's days like these that remind me why I love sharing these adventures with Maximilian and Sofia.

Our morning started with a hearty breakfast at Rondane Fjellstue. I enjoyed some traditional Norwegian fare, fueling up for the day ahead. Maximilian opted for a lighter meal, while Sofia, predictably, went straight for the pastries. The cozy atmosphere of the Fjellstue was the perfect way to kickstart our day. I made sure to grab an extra pastry for Sofia, knowing her energy levels would need a boost for our planned adventures. I remember my childhood summers in Savonlinna, Finland, where simple, hearty meals were the foundation of every adventure. It's a tradition I'm keen to pass on to Sofia.


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

With our bellies full, we set off towards Grimsdalsvegen, a mountain road nestled between Rondane and Dovrefjell National Parks. The drive itself was an experience. The gravel road wound its way through stunning landscapes, offering panoramic views of Jotunheimen National Park in the distance. It felt like we were driving through a painting, with every turn revealing a new vista.


Experience the breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage at Bomstasjon Grimsdalsvegen in Folldal, Norway.

The journey, not the destination, is the true reward.

The Grimsdalsvegen is a toll road, but the fee was a small price to pay for the incredible scenery. As we drove, I couldn't help but think about the history of this road, used since the 1600s by farmers moving livestock. It's amazing to think of all the stories this road could tell. Sofia was particularly excited, pointing out every sheep and cow we passed. Maximilian, ever the photographer, was in his element, snapping photos at every opportunity.

Our next stop was Øvre Fallfossen, a stunning waterfall just outside Rondane National Park. The hike to the waterfall was relatively easy, even for Sofia, and the reward was well worth the effort. The sight of the cascading water against the backdrop of the mountains was simply breathtaking.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Øvre Fallfossen, a stunning waterfall in the heart of Norway's natural landscape, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

I took a moment to reflect on the beauty around me. The fresh air, the sound of the water, the stunning views – it was a sensory overload in the best possible way. Sofia, of course, was more interested in getting as close to the water as possible, which led to a few heart-stopping moments for Maximilian and me. But that's part of the fun, right?

After our waterfall adventure, we stopped for lunch at Rondane Høyfjellshotell. The hotel had a certain charm, and the lunch menu was full of tempting options. I opted for the traditional rømmegrøt, a sour cream porridge served with cured ham and flatbread. It was delicious and comforting, and exactly what I needed after our hike. Maximilian chose a smoked salmon bagel, while Sofia, again, stuck with her familiar favorite: waffles with jam.


Experience the beauty of Norway at Rondane Høyfjellshotell – your perfect retreat in nature's paradise.

As we ate, we chatted about our plans for tomorrow. We're heading to Dovre National Park, another gem in Norway's crown. We're planning a hike to a panoramic viewpoint, and I'm hoping we might even spot some musk oxen. Sofia is already excited about the prospect of seeing these magnificent creatures.

In the late afternoon, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at Kolonialen Pub. It was a cozy spot with a warm and inviting atmosphere. I enjoyed a local beer while Maximilian opted for a glass of wine. Sofia, of course, had a juice box. The pub was filled with locals, and we struck up a conversation with a friendly couple who shared some tips about other must-see spots in the area. It's these unexpected encounters that often make a trip truly memorable.


Discover Kolonialen Pub in Vinstra: A cozy pub and restaurant serving delicious local cuisine and drinks in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

For dinner, we headed to Rondane Haukliseter Fjellhotel. The Fjellhotel was a delightful experience. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the menu was full of traditional Norwegian dishes. I opted for the reindeer stew, a local specialty, while Maximilian chose the grilled salmon. Sofia, surprisingly, decided to try the stew as well, and she loved it! It was a proud moment for me, seeing her embrace the local cuisine.


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

As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've shared today. From the scenic drive along Grimsdalsvegen to the majestic Øvre Fallfossen waterfall, every moment has been special. And knowing that tomorrow brings a new adventure in Dovre National Park fills me with excitement.

Back at our campsite, as Sofia drifted off to sleep, Maximilian and I sat by the campfire, reflecting on the day. The crackling fire, the starry sky, the peaceful surroundings – it was the perfect end to a perfect day. As I looked up at the stars, I thought about my home in Heidelberg and how much I missed it. But I also knew that this trip was creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we venture into Dovre National Park, hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive musk oxen and soak in more of Norway's stunning vistas. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting the panoramic viewpoint and capturing some breathtaking shots of the landscape. And perhaps, just perhaps, we'll find a cozy little shop like Lundes turisthandel to pick up a souvenir or two. Until then, goodnight from Rondane!

Reflecting on today, I am reminded of a quote from the Finnish philosopher Esa Saarinen:

Life is a tapestry woven with moments of joy, wonder, and connection.

And today, our tapestry gained some vibrant new threads.