Family Adventure in Hardangervidda: Exploring Norway's Natural Wonders

A Day of Triumphs and Tastes

Today was a day of conquering fears, embracing nature's raw beauty, and savoring the sweet taste of local traditions. Hardangervidda has truly captured my heart, and I can't wait to share the incredible experiences we had, from the challenging hike to Trolltunga Troll's Tongue to the delightful cider tasting.

Our day began early, with a hearty breakfast at Vik Café & Restaurant in Ulvik. The aroma of freshly baked bread and the stunning view of the fjord set the perfect tone for the adventures ahead. Astrid was particularly excited about the pastries, and Maximilian enjoyed a strong cup of coffee to prepare for the long day. It was a delightful start, made even better by the café's warm and welcoming atmosphere. I couldn't help but feel grateful for these moments of simple joy with my family, a reminder of why we embarked on this journey in the first place.

Fueled and ready, we set off towards Trolltunga, or the Troll's Tongue. The drive itself was breathtaking, winding through lush green valleys and past cascading waterfalls. As we approached the trailhead, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. I had read about the hike being strenuous, a solid 10-12 hours of non-stop ascending and descending, and I knew it would be a challenge for all of us. But the promise of the iconic view kept us motivated. I made sure we had enough water and snacks, remembering my forgotten portable phone charger and sunscreen from the first day!

The hike to Trolltunga was indeed demanding. The initial ascent was steep, and the trail was rocky and uneven. Astrid, bless her heart, was a trooper, but I could see she was getting tired. Maximilian, ever the supportive husband, carried her on his shoulders for a good portion of the climb, while I kept us going with stories of Norwegian folklore and the promise of a spectacular view. There were moments when I questioned my sanity, wondering if I had bitten off more than I could chew. But then, we would round a bend and be greeted by another stunning vista, the vast expanse of Hardangervidda stretching out before us, and all doubts would vanish.

The beauty of Norway isn't just in its landscapes, but in the way it challenges you to explore them.

As we hiked, I couldn't help but reflect on my own Norwegian heritage. Growing up in Fyresdal, I was surrounded by nature, but I never fully appreciated it until I moved away. Now, returning with my family, I felt a deep connection to the land, a sense of belonging that I wanted to share with Astrid. I told her stories of my childhood, of hiking with my grandparents in the Telemark region, and of the magical tales of trolls and mythical creatures that filled my imagination. She listened with wide eyes, her own sense of wonder growing with each step.

The weather, thankfully, was on our side. The sun shone brightly, and the temperature was perfect for hiking. However, I was mindful of the warnings about fast-changing conditions in the mountains, so I made sure we were prepared for any eventuality. We had layers of clothing, waterproof jackets, and plenty of snacks to keep our energy levels up.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, we reached Trolltunga. The view was even more spectacular than I had imagined. The iconic rock formation jutted out over the turquoise waters of Lake Ringedalsvatnet, with snow-capped mountains in the distance. It was a scene of unparalleled beauty, a reward for all our efforts. We took turns posing for photos, each of us savoring the moment, feeling a sense of accomplishment and awe.


Experience the breathtaking views from Trolltunga, Norway's iconic cliff offering adventure, stunning scenery, and unforgettable memories.

We spent a good hour at Trolltunga, simply soaking in the scenery and enjoying the camaraderie of fellow hikers. There was a sense of shared triumph, a collective appreciation for the natural wonders of Norway. I chatted with a couple from Germany, who were equally mesmerized by the view, and we exchanged stories of our travels and adventures. It's moments like these that make traveling so enriching, the connections you make with people from all walks of life, united by a common love for exploration.

The descent was just as challenging as the ascent, but we were buoyed by the memory of the breathtaking view. We took our time, carefully navigating the rocky terrain, and made it back to the trailhead just as the sun began to set. We were exhausted, but exhilarated, filled with a sense of pride and gratitude.

From there, we drove towards Odda, famished and eager to unwind. Our dinner destination was Siderhuset Ola K, a restaurant in Sørfjorden known for combining fine dining with local food and cider. It was the perfect way to end our day of adventure. The restaurant is located by the fjord in Naa, and the drive there was beautiful, just like being part of a movie.

The atmosphere at Siderhuset Ola K was warm and inviting. The staff welcomed us with open arms, and we were seated at a table with a stunning view of the fjord. We started with a cider tasting, sampling a variety of local ciders, from dry to sweet, each with its unique flavor profile. I was particularly impressed by the ice cider, which had a rich, intense flavor, perfect for sipping on a cool evening. Maximilian, who is usually a beer drinker, was equally taken with the ciders, appreciating the craftsmanship and the connection to the local terroir.

For dinner, we ordered a selection of traditional Norwegian dishes, including seafood soup, and cured meats. The food was delicious, fresh and flavorful, and perfectly complemented the ciders. Astrid, who is usually a picky eater, surprised us by devouring the seafood soup, declaring it the best she had ever tasted. It was a heartwarming moment, seeing her embrace the local cuisine and culture.

As we dined, I learned about the history of Siderhuset Ola K, which dates back to 1912. It was built by Ola K Naa to help the locals with retail, fruit delivery and mail. The building acted as a unifying place for people. It was fascinating to learn about the family's dedication to preserving local traditions and promoting sustainable agriculture. It's businesses like these that make traveling so meaningful, the opportunity to connect with the local community and support their efforts to preserve their cultural heritage.

After dinner, we stopped by the Gift Shop Norsk Natursenter. Astrid found a cute troll doll, a perfect souvenir to remember our Trolltunga adventure. The shop had a variety of local crafts and souvenirs, celebrating Norway's natural beauty.


Explore the Gift Shop Norsk Natursenter for unique local crafts, souvenirs, and educational materials celebrating Norway's natural beauty.

As we drove back to our campsite, I reflected on the day's experiences. We had conquered a challenging hike, witnessed breathtaking scenery, and savored the flavors of local traditions. But more importantly, we had created lasting memories as a family, strengthening our bond and deepening our appreciation for the natural wonders of Norway. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Utsikt til Buerbreen and Freimslia viewpoint, continuing our immersion into the stunning landscapes of Hardangervidda. I can't wait to see what adventures await us.

It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, the opportunity to step outside my comfort zone, to challenge myself, and to connect with nature and different cultures. And it's experiences like these that I want to share with my readers, to inspire them to embark on their own adventures and discover the beauty and wonder of our world.