Family Adventure in Hardangervidda: Exploring Norway's Natural Wonders

Reconnecting with Roots in Hardangervidda

Today marked the beginning of our family's long-awaited adventure in Hardangervidda National Park. As someone who was born in Norway, but has spent years living in Berlin, this trip is more than just a vacation; it's a pilgrimage back to my roots. I wanted to share the raw beauty and rich heritage of this land with Maximilian and Astrid, and today, we took our first steps into that shared experience.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Hardangervidda National Park at the informative visitor center, your gateway to adventure.

Our journey began with a flight from Berlin to Oslo, followed by a scenic drive to Hardangervidda. The landscape transformed dramatically as we left the city behind, trading urban sprawl for rolling hills and dense forests. Astrid was glued to the window, her little eyes wide with wonder as she spotted our first grazing sheep. The drive itself was a history lesson, each town we passed whispering tales of Vikings and ancient traditions.

First stop: the Hardangervidda National Park Center. This place is a treasure trove of information. The interactive exhibits captivated Astrid, especially the virtual tour that simulated the changing seasons and the migration of the wild reindeer. Maximilian, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the displays detailing the park's unique geology and ecology. For me, it was a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving this natural sanctuary. I was particularly impressed that the exhibition was available in ten languages, including Ukrainian and Polish. It really made me think about the variety of people who visit this area.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After immersing ourselves in the park's wonders, we set out along the Scenic Route Hardangervidda. The views were simply breathtaking. The vast expanse of the plateau stretched before us, a tapestry of greens and browns under a boundless sky. We stopped at several viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective on the landscape. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of wildflowers and damp earth. I could feel the stress of city life melting away with every breath.


Explore the breathtaking Scenic Route Hardangervidda, where stunning vistas, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage converge in Norway's natural wonder.

Our next stop was Nykkjesøyfossen, a powerful waterfall cascading down the mountainside. The short walk from the road to the waterfall was an adventure in itself, with the spray of the falls creating a cool mist that kissed our faces. Astrid was mesmerized by the sheer force of the water, her laughter echoing against the roar of the falls. It's moments like these that I cherish most – seeing the world through her innocent eyes, experiencing the joy of discovery together.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Nykkjesøyfossen Waterfall in Kinsarvik, Norway, a serene escape into nature's wonders.

For breakfast, we stopped at Halne Fjellstugu, a cozy mountain lodge with a rich history. The traditional Norwegian breakfast was hearty and delicious, featuring freshly baked bread, local cheeses, and smoked salmon. Astrid particularly enjoyed the waffles with cloudberry jam, a taste of Norway that I remember fondly from my own childhood. I chatted briefly with the owner, learning about the lodge's history and its connection to the surrounding landscape. It's these personal touches that make traveling so rewarding.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Halne Fjellstugu while soaking in breathtaking views of Vøringsfoss's stunning landscapes.

Lunch was at Dyranut Fjellstova, another charming mountain lodge known for its traditional cuisine. We savored local specialties like trout with sour cream sauce and reindeer stew. The flavors were rich and comforting, a true taste of Norwegian heritage. Maximilian, always eager to try new things, declared the reindeer stew his favorite dish so far. The warm and inviting atmosphere of the lodge made us feel right at home, a welcome respite after a morning of exploring.


Experience authentic Norwegian hospitality at Dyranut Fjellstova - where traditional cuisine meets stunning natural beauty in Eidfjord.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Sjel og gane bar og restaurant for dinner. Located in a charming setting, the restaurant offered a blend of traditional and modern Norwegian cuisine. I opted for the smoked salmon, while Maximilian chose the entrecote. Astrid, of course, went for the pizza. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Hardangervidda.


Discover the culinary delights at Sjel og Gane bar og restaurant in Eidfjord – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

Before heading back to our campsite for the night, we also stopped by the shop at Hardangervidda National Park Center. There, we picked up a detailed map of the park, Astrid chose a small stuffed reindeer as a souvenir, and I finally replaced the portable phone charger I’d forgotten at home. Always something, isn’t it?

Tomorrow, we plan to hike the Queen Sonja's Panoramic Hiking Trail. I've heard it offers incredible views of the Hardangerfjord, and I'm eager to share that beauty with my family. We'll also visit Vøringfossen, one of Norway's most famous waterfalls, and the Hardanger Bridge Viewpoint, for a different perspective on the landscape. If there is time, I'd like to stop by Halne Fjellstugu again, maybe for a drink at their bar.

This first day in Hardangervidda has been a dream come true. Seeing my family connect with this land, experiencing its beauty and history firsthand, has filled my heart with joy. It's a reminder of the importance of our roots, and the power of nature to heal and inspire. As we settle into our tent tonight, under a sky full of stars, I know that this adventure is just the beginning of a lifetime of memories.

And as a final thought, I remembered a quote from a Norwegian poem I read as a child, which seems particularly relevant tonight:

From the mountains to the fjords, Norway's soul forever soars.