Family Adventure in Hardangervidda: Exploring Norway's Natural Wonders

A Symphony of Water and Stone

Today was a day of contrasts, where the raw, untamed beauty of Hardangervidda met the structured ingenuity of human engineering. Maximilian, Astrid, and I set out with a plan to explore the region's iconic landmarks, and what we discovered was a blend of natural wonder and human achievement that left us in awe. It was a day that truly resonated with my Norwegian heritage, reminding me of the resourcefulness and respect for nature that defines our culture.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Stigstuv turisthytte AS. The cozy atmosphere and traditional Norwegian fare set the perfect tone for the day ahead. Reviews of Stigstuv highlight its beautiful location and welcoming vibe, and I can certainly attest to that. Fuelled up with freshly baked bread and strong coffee, we were ready to tackle our itinerary. I made sure Astrid had a little extra to eat, knowing that our adventures for today required a lot of energy.


Discover Stigstuv Turisthytte: A picturesque restaurant and cottage in Eidfjord offering authentic Norwegian cuisine amidst stunning landscapes.

Our first stop was the Ringedals Dam. As we approached, the sheer scale of the structure was breathtaking. Built in stages between 1909 and 1918, the Ringedals Dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering, a period when Norway was harnessing its natural resources to power its burgeoning industries. I read that when it was completed in 1918, it was one of Europe's largest gravity dams! The dam was constructed in connection with the hydroelectric power plant in Tyssedal and the factories in Odda. It was amazing to learn that the dam is built with cyclopean concrete and dressed with hand-cut granite. The dam is also decorated with a crown of dams modeled on a medieval castle. Astrid was fascinated by the sheer size and the castle-like appearance.


Explore the stunning Ringedals Dam in Tyssedal, a perfect blend of natural beauty and impressive engineering showcasing Norway's hydroelectric legacy.

The Ringedals Dam is more than just a feat of engineering; it's a symbol of Norway's ability to blend industrial progress with respect for its stunning natural landscape.

Walking along the top of the dam, the views of Ringedalsvatnet were simply stunning. The water, a deep, shimmering blue, was framed by the rugged mountains that define this part of Norway. I explained to Astrid how the dam plays a crucial role in hydroelectric power generation, providing electricity for the industries in the nearby town of Odda. It was a valuable lesson in sustainable energy and the importance of preserving our natural resources.

As we stood there, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in my Norwegian heritage. My ancestors were resourceful people, skilled at harnessing the power of nature while respecting its delicate balance. This dam, a product of their ingenuity, stands as a lasting symbol of their achievements.

After spending a good amount of time at the dam, soaking in the views and capturing photos, we hopped back in the car and made our way towards the Sorfjord viewpoint. The drive itself was a treat, winding through lush valleys and alongside the shimmering waters of the Sørfjorden, one of the many side fjords of the Hardangerfjord. The landscape was dotted with fruit trees, a reminder that this region is known as Norway's orchard. I made a mental note to return in the spring to witness the spectacular fruit tree blossoms.


Experience the beauty of Norway at Sorfjord Viewpoint, a stunning tourist attraction that offers breathtaking landscapes and serene surroundings.

The Sorfjord viewpoint offered a different perspective, a panoramic vista of the fjord stretching out before us, framed by towering mountains. The view was incredible, and even Astrid was momentarily speechless, which is a rare occurrence. The viewpoint is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike. From this vantage point, the Folgefonna glacier shimmered in the distance, a reminder of the icy heart of Hardangervidda. I learned that the whole drive along the Sørfjord is beautiful, it is just a matter of finding a good parking spot. I read that the water is calmest in the morning, so that is the best time to get reflections and perhaps some low hanging clouds.

We spent a while at the viewpoint, simply taking in the scenery and breathing in the crisp mountain air. Maximilian, ever the photographer, was in his element, snapping away at the landscape from every possible angle. Astrid, meanwhile, was busy collecting wildflowers, carefully arranging them into a small bouquet.

For lunch, we stopped at Lægreid Høyfjellsseter. This cozy mountain restaurant is known for its excellent burgers, and it was the perfect place to refuel after our morning adventures. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food was hearty and delicious. It was the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a well-deserved break. I had heard about Lægreid Høyfjellsseter being a cozy mountain restaurant known for its excellent burgers, and it was indeed the perfect place to refuel after our morning adventures. Maximilian and Astrid both enjoyed their burgers, while I opted for a traditional Norwegian dish, eager to reconnect with the flavors of my childhood.


Discover Lægreid Høyfjellsseter: A top-rated burger restaurant set against Norway's stunning mountain backdrop.

After lunch, we decided to make a stop at Hardangervidda Nasjonalparksenter, hoping to learn more about the park's unique ecosystem and wildlife. The visitor center is an educational hub, designed to inform and inspire. It has exhibits detailing the geological, biological, and historical aspects of the plateau. Through interactive displays, visitors can gain insights into the region's unique flora, fauna, and geological formations. Unfortunately, we were a bit short on time, but we did manage to explore the exhibits and learn about the wild reindeer that roam these lands. The center also had a café with panoramic views, but we decided to save that for another visit.


Explore the stunning Hardangervidda National Park at the Hardangervidda Nasjonalparksenter, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

As evening approached, we made our way to Hardangerviddahallen for dinner. This restaurant, located in Øvre Eidfjord, combines Norwegian food culture and history with fresh ingredients from the district. The restaurant offers both à la carte, Hardangerbuffet, catering, lunsj- og selskapsmeny. I chose a traditional dish featuring local fish, while Maximilian opted for the reindeer stew. Astrid, as always, was happy with a simple plate of pølse & pommes frites (sausage and fries).


Discover authentic Norwegian cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Hardangerviddahallen in Øvre Eidfjord.

While the food was good, I couldn't help but feel a bit underwhelmed by the atmosphere. The restaurant felt a bit too touristy, lacking the authentic charm I was hoping for. However, the staff were friendly and the views of the surrounding landscape were undeniably beautiful. I read that Hardangerviddahallen Restaurant is a modern restaurant and cafe where up to 200 guests can enjoy Norwegian food traditions combined with modern cuisine.

As we wrapped up our dinner, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's experiences. We had witnessed the grandeur of the Ringedals Dam, marveled at the panoramic views from the Sorfjord viewpoint, and learned about the unique ecosystem of Hardangervidda National Park. It was a day that had deepened my connection to my Norwegian roots and reminded me of the importance of preserving our natural and cultural heritage.

Tomorrow, we're heading to Kjeåsen, the famous mountain farm, and taking a Vision of the Fjords cruise. I'm excited to see what adventures await us!

On a side note, I realized today that I forgot to pack sunscreen! Thankfully, none of us got sunburned, but I'll definitely need to remember to buy some tomorrow. I also wish I had brought a portable phone charger. My phone battery was running low by the end of the day, and I missed out on some photo opportunities.

As I sit here writing this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Hardangervidda is a truly special place, a land of contrasts and natural beauty that has captured my heart. I hope that through my writing, I can inspire others to explore this incredible region and connect with its rich cultural heritage.

“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.” This quote encapsulates the essence of our journey, reminding us of our responsibility to protect and preserve the natural wonders of Hardangervidda for future generations.

Goodnight from Hardangervidda!