Solo Escape to the Serenity of Rondane National Park

A Day of Discovery in Rondane's Embrace

Today was all about embracing the raw beauty of Rondane National Park and soaking in the local culture. From scenic drives to cozy pubs, it was a day filled with unforgettable experiences. It's funny how sometimes the best travel days are the ones where you just let the road (or trail) guide you.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Rondane Gjestegård. I fueled up with some traditional Norwegian fare, which included strong coffee and freshly baked bread. It's amazing how a good breakfast can set the tone for the entire day, especially when you know you'll be spending it exploring the great outdoors. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes for Greta and Marko back in Heidelberg – perhaps a new Sunday brunch tradition is in order!.


Experience nature's splendor at Rondane Gjestegård – your gateway to adventure in Norway's breathtaking landscapes.

With a full stomach and a sense of adventure, I set off to experience the Nasjonal Turistveg Rondane, or the Rondane Scenic Route. This route is famed for its stunning views and cultural landscapes, running along the eastern edge of Rondane National Park. As I drove, the majestic mountain massif dominated the horizon, their peaks dusted with snow. Even in March, the landscape held a stark, beautiful quality, a blend of winter's last stand and the promise of spring. I could see why this route is considered one of Norway's most adventurous journeys through nature, culture, and geology. The road wound its way through valleys and alongside frozen lakes, offering picture-postcard views at every turn. I stopped frequently, camera in hand, trying to capture the essence of this serene wilderness. It's moments like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share the beauty and tranquility I find in places like Rondane with all of you.


Discover the scenic beauty of the Rondane National Tourist Route, a journey through majestic mountains and stunning landscapes in Norway's first national park.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

One of the highlights along the scenic route was Rullesteinen, a peculiar rock formation that seemed to defy gravity. It was a quick stop, but these small, quirky attractions often leave the biggest impression. I imagined Marko would have loved scrambling around the rocks, pretending to be a mountain explorer. Maybe next time, I'll bring the family along for a similar adventure. I am sure Greta would love the stave churches in the area.


Explore Rullesteinen, a unique natural attraction in Dovre, Norway, renowned for its stunning landscapes and fascinating geological history.

For lunch, I stopped at Rondane Fjellstue, a cozy mountain lodge that offered respite from the crisp air. I savored a warm bowl of traditional soup, a welcome treat after a morning of driving and exploring. The fjellstue was filled with hikers and travelers, all sharing stories and experiences from their time in Rondane. It was a reminder of the sense of community that often forms in these remote, beautiful places. I overheard a group discussing their plans to hike to Formokampen mountain, and made a mental note to look into that for a future trip.


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

In the afternoon, I decided to explore some of the local shops. I stopped by Lundes turisthandel, a charming shop that has been around since 1961. It started as a small booth selling refreshments to tourists and has since grown into a full-fledged store offering everything from hiking gear to local crafts. I picked up a few souvenirs for Greta and Marko, including a hand-knitted scarf and a small wooden troll figurine. It's these little mementos that help keep the memories of my travels alive long after I've returned home. Lundes Turisthandel is located in what is known as “The entrance to Rondane from the south”.


Explore Lundes Turisthandel – Your gateway to authentic Norwegian flavors and local delicacies in the heart of Venabygd.

As evening approached, I found myself at Kolonialen Pub, a cozy spot in Vinstra known for its welcoming atmosphere and local cuisine. I enjoyed a hearty dinner of reindeer stew and a local beer, savoring the flavors of the region. The pub was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively and convivial atmosphere. I struck up a conversation with a friendly Norwegian couple who shared some tips on the best hiking trails in the area. It's these chance encounters that often make solo travel so rewarding.


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

Finally, for dinner, I treated myself to a meal at Rondane Haukliseter Fjellhotel. The food was excellent, and the ambiance was perfect for a relaxing evening. I reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Rondane National Park.


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

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm excited to explore Jørundgard Middelaldersenter, a medieval center that promises a fascinating glimpse into Norway's past. I'm also planning to drive along the Grimsdalsvegen, another scenic route that I've heard offers breathtaking views. I'll make sure to grab breakfast at Spidsbergseter Resort Rondane and lunch at Rondane friluftssenter AS to keep my energy levels up for another day of exploration. And maybe I'll swing by Høvringen Landhandleri & Kafe for some local treats.

As I settle in for the night, I'm filled with a sense of contentment. Rondane National Park has a way of captivating you with its natural beauty and rustic charm. It's a place where you can disconnect from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with nature and yourself. And as a software engineer constantly immersed in the digital world, that's exactly what I needed. I miss Greta and Marko, but I know this experience will make me a better husband and father when I return. I can't wait to share my stories and photos with them, and hopefully inspire them to join me on my next adventure. I will have to remember a portable charger next time.

Tomorrow will be the last day in Rondane and I will have to start thinking about heading back to Heidelberg. I still have a few days though. The weather forecast shows some chance of precipitation tomorrow so I will have to dress accordingly. The journey continues...