Family Adventure in Rondane National Park, Norway

Echoes of the Past, Visions of the Present

Today was a day of contrasts, a blend of delving into Norway's rich history and soaking in the stunning natural beauty of Rondane National Park. It’s amazing how much history is woven into these landscapes, and I was excited to share it with Maximilian and Sofia. We set out with a plan to explore, learn, and of course, enjoy the simple pleasures of good food and charming local spots.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Rondane Haukliseter Fjellhotel. I always appreciate a good breakfast, especially when we have a full day of activities ahead. The spread was wonderful, featuring local cheeses, freshly baked bread, and strong, dark coffee – just the fuel we needed. After breakfast, we packed our daypacks and set off for our first destination: Strømbu.

Discovering Strømbu

Strømbu turned out to be a fascinating rest area with a story to tell. The area is steeped in history, with evidence suggesting human presence dating back centuries. It's believed that people lived and hunted in this region until the Black Death in the 14th century. Rondane National Park, established in 1962, was created to protect this rich cultural and natural heritage. As we walked around, I imagined archers hiding, waiting for their prey, and families building their homes in this very spot so long ago. Sofia was particularly intrigued by the idea of ancient reindeer traps, imagining how hunters might have used them.

The landscape itself was breathtaking. The views stretched out over the valleys and mountains, offering a serene reminder of nature's enduring power. We spent some time simply taking it all in, breathing the crisp mountain air, and capturing photos to remember this special place. It's moments like these that make me grateful for our decision to embark on this family adventure.


Discover Strømbu, an enchanting tourist attraction in Folldal, Norway, offering stunning landscapes and essential amenities for travelers.

A Medieval Journey at Jørundgard

Our next stop was Jørundgard Middelaldersenter, a medieval center that promised a step back in time. Jørundgard was originally built as the film set for Liv Ullmann's film adaptation of Sigrid Undset's epic novel, *Kristin Lavransdatter*. As a translator with a keen interest in literature, I was particularly excited to visit this place. I had read *Kristin Lavransdatter* years ago, and I remember being completely engrossed in the story of a strong-willed woman navigating life in medieval Norway. I wanted to share this connection with Sofia, hoping to spark her interest in history and literature.

As we approached Jørundgard, the authentic medieval architecture immediately transported us to another era. The buildings were constructed with meticulous detail, reflecting the style and techniques of the 14th century. We explored the farm, peeking into the various structures and imagining what life would have been like for Kristin and her family. Sofia was fascinated by the traditional tools and implements, asking endless questions about their uses.

Visiting Jørundgard was like stepping into the pages of a beloved novel, a vivid reminder of the stories that shape our understanding of the past.

We even had the opportunity to participate in a guided tour, where we learned more about the history of the farm and the making of the film. The guide shared fascinating anecdotes about the actors and crew, as well as insights into the daily life of people during the medieval period. It was enriching to experience the intersection of literature, history, and film in such a tangible way.

Maximilian, who is not always as enthusiastic about historical sites as I am, admitted that he found Jørundgard surprisingly engaging. He was impressed by the craftsmanship of the buildings and the attention to detail. It was a reminder that even those who don't consider themselves history buffs can find something to appreciate in these immersive experiences.


Discover the allure of medieval Norway at Jørundgard Middelaldersenter, where history comes alive through interactive experiences and stunning landscapes.

Lunch with a View

By lunchtime, we were all feeling a bit peckish. We headed to Rondane Friluftssenter AS for a satisfying meal. The friluftssenter, or outdoor center, offered a lovely setting with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. We enjoyed traditional Norwegian fare, including hearty sandwiches and warm soup. The simple, wholesome food was exactly what we needed to recharge our batteries.

As we ate, we chatted about our favorite moments from the morning. Sofia was particularly excited about Jørundgard, recounting the stories she had heard about Kristin Lavransdatter. It warmed my heart to see her so engaged and curious about the past. Maximilian and I discussed the historical significance of Strømbu and the importance of preserving these cultural landscapes.


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

Local Delights at Høvringen Landhandleri & Kafe

In the afternoon, we decided to explore the local shops in the area. Our destination was Høvringen Landhandleri & Kafe, a charming general store and cafe in the heart of Høvringen. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by the aroma of freshly baked goods and the sight of shelves stocked with local products. It was a feast for the senses.

Høvringen Landhandleri & Kafe is known for its homemade specialties, including *rømmevafler* (sour cream waffles) and stone-oven pizza. We couldn't resist trying both. The *rømmevafler* were light and fluffy, with a slightly tangy flavor that was perfectly complemented by a dollop of jam. The stone-oven pizza was equally delicious, with a crispy crust and generous toppings. It was the perfect afternoon treat.

While we enjoyed our snacks, we browsed the store's selection of local products. I was particularly drawn to the hand-knitted sweaters and woolen goods, which reminded me of my own knitting projects back in Heidelberg. We ended up purchasing a few souvenirs, including a small wooden troll for Sofia and a jar of local honey for ourselves.

The atmosphere in the kafe was warm and inviting, with locals chatting and laughing over coffee. It felt like a true community hub, a place where people came together to share stories and enjoy each other's company. I appreciated the opportunity to connect with the local culture in such a genuine way.


Discover local delights at Høvringen Landhandleri & Kafe, where homemade flavors meet charming Norwegian hospitality in Høvringen.

Dinner and Reflections at Rondane Gjestegård

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Rondane Gjestegård for dinner. The *gjestegård*, or guest house, had a cozy, rustic ambiance that made us feel right at home. We settled into a comfortable corner and ordered a selection of traditional Norwegian dishes. The food was hearty and flavorful, showcasing the best of local ingredients.

Over dinner, we reflected on our experiences from the day. We had journeyed through time, explored medieval history, and savored the flavors of Rondane. It was a day filled with learning, laughter, and connection. I felt grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with my family, creating memories that we would cherish for years to come.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we are planning to visit Bomstasjon Grimsdalsvegen and Øvre Fallfossen. I'm particularly excited about seeing Øvre Fallfossen, as I've heard it’s a breathtaking waterfall. We also plan to have dinner at Rondane Haukliseter Fjellhotel again, which I am looking forward to after their wonderful breakfast service earlier today. And, if we have time, we might pop into Kolonialen Pub for a quick drink.

As I write this, nestled in our cozy camping spot, I can’t help but feel a sense of contentment. Each day in Rondane brings new adventures and deeper connections with my family and the world around us. I am eager to see what tomorrow holds, knowing that it will be another day filled with beauty, discovery, and shared moments.

Rondane National Park is more than just a destination; it's an experience that touches the soul. From the echoes of the past to the visions of the present, this place has a way of reminding us of the importance of history, nature, and human connection. And as we continue our journey, I am excited to share more of these moments with you, my dear readers. Until tomorrow, *hyvää yötä* (good night) from Norway!