Family Adventure in Jotunheimen National Park

Home of the Giants: Besseggen Beckons

Today was the day we'd been anticipating since we first sketched out this Jotunheimen adventure: hiking Besseggen Ridge. I woke up with that familiar thrill of excitement mixed with a touch of trepidation, knowing that this was considered a challenging hike, even for seasoned adventurers. But the promise of breathtaking views and a chance to immerse ourselves in the heart of Nordic legend was too enticing to resist.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Besseggen, a premier hiking destination in Norway’s Jotunheimen National Park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Lemonsjøen Fjellstue & Hyttegrend. The cozy, family-run mountain lodge was bustling with hikers fueling up for their own adventures. I opted for a traditional Norwegian breakfast of brown cheese and crispbread, while Markus enjoyed a plate of eggs and bacon. Aino, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by trying (and enjoying!) the brown cheese as well. Fueled up and ready to go, we packed our daypacks, making sure we had plenty of water, snacks, and of course, my camera [TripDetails]. It was a beautiful morning, the air crisp and clean, with just a hint of a breeze rustling through the trees.


Experience authentic Norwegian hospitality at Lemonsjøen Fjellstue & Hyttegrend amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Our drive to the trailhead was scenic, to say the least. The landscapes of Jotunheimen are truly dramatic, with towering peaks and lush valleys stretching as far as the eye can see [TripDetails]. As we drove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer scale of the natural world around us. It felt as though we were driving into the heart of a Nordic saga, ready to encounter mythical creatures and breathtaking vistas. The drive itself was smooth, though I did begin to silently curse myself for forgetting the insect repellent; those pesky mosquitoes were already making their presence known!

We arrived at the trailhead and joined the throngs of other eager hikers preparing to embark on the Besseggen adventure. The atmosphere was buzzing with anticipation. After a quick check of our gear, we set off, ready to tackle the famed ridge.

The initial part of the hike was a steady climb, winding through rocky terrain and offering glimpses of the stunning lakes below. Aino, with her boundless energy, practically skipped ahead, eager to see what lay around each bend. Markus, ever the steady presence, kept a watchful eye on both of us, his experience in the Finnish wilderness proving invaluable. I found myself stopping frequently to capture the scenery with my camera, wanting to preserve every moment of this incredible journey [TripDetails].

As we ascended, the views became increasingly spectacular. The emerald green waters of Gjende Lake stretched out on one side, while the deep blue of Bessvatnet Lake shimmered on the other. The contrast in colors was striking, a testament to the unique geological formations of the area. According to local Sami legends, these lakes are guarded by spirits, adding a mystical layer to the already breathtaking landscape.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

The climb became more challenging as we approached the ridge itself. The path narrowed, and the terrain became steeper and rockier. There were moments where we had to scramble over boulders, using our hands for support. Aino, surprisingly, took to the scrambling like a little mountain goat, her confidence soaring with each successful maneuver. I, on the other hand, found myself relying on Markus's steady hand and words of encouragement to navigate the trickier sections.

Reaching the top of Besseggen Ridge was an exhilarating moment. The panoramic views were simply breathtaking. We paused to catch our breath and take in the majesty of the landscape that stretched out before us. It was easy to see why this hike is so popular; the views are unlike anything I’ve ever seen. The crisp mountain air filled our lungs, and a sense of accomplishment washed over us.

The hike along the ridge was both thrilling and challenging. The path was narrow in places, with steep drops on either side. The wind whipped around us, adding to the sense of exposure. But the views were worth every ounce of effort. We could see for miles in every direction, the rugged peaks of Jotunheimen stretching out like a sea of giants. It was easy to imagine this place as the home of the Jötunn, the mythical giants of Norse mythology.

As we hiked, we encountered other travelers from all corners of the globe. We exchanged smiles and words of encouragement, united by our shared love of adventure and the stunning beauty of our surroundings. There was a sense of camaraderie on the trail, a feeling that we were all part of something special.

We eventually began our descent, the path leading us down towards Memurubu. The descent was steep in places, and we had to take our time, carefully watching our footing. My knees were definitely feeling the strain, and I silently wished I had remembered to pack my hiking poles [TripDetails]. Aino, however, remained undeterred, her energy seemingly inexhaustible.

By the time we reached Sjodalstugu, we were all more than ready for a break. This charming café, nestled amidst the stunning scenery, was the perfect place to refuel and recharge. We indulged in some well-deserved treats: coffee for Markus and me, and a delicious cinnamon bun for Aino. Sitting outside, soaking in the views, and enjoying the warmth of the sun, I felt a deep sense of contentment. It was moments like these that made all the challenges of the hike worthwhile.


Discover the authentic flavors of Norway at Sjodalstugu in Tessanden – where culinary artistry meets warm hospitality amidst breathtaking scenery.

After our delightful break, we continued our journey, making our way towards Viewpoint Fjord. While the details on getting there were a little vague, we were determined to find this hidden gem. Following the signs and trusting our instincts, we eventually arrived at a spot that offered panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. The vista was truly breathtaking, a tapestry of blues and greens stretching out before us. It was a perfect spot for photographs, and I spent a good amount of time capturing the stunning scenery [13, TripDetails].


Experience breathtaking views and tranquility at Viewpoint Fjord, a stunning tourist attraction in Indre Hafslo, Norway.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Bryggjehuset Kafe & Pub. This cozy spot offered a welcome respite after a long day of hiking. While some reviewers mentioned the food quality could be improved, we found the atmosphere charming and the staff friendly. Markus and I enjoyed a well-deserved beer while Aino sipped on a soda, all of us relishing the chance to relax and reflect on the day's adventures.


Experience traditional Norwegian flavors in a cozy setting at Bryggjehuset Kafe & Pub in Skjolden.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a meal at Fossheim Hotell - Restaurant in Lom. This historic hotel is renowned for its cuisine, which focuses on local ingredients and traditional Norwegian dishes. The dining room was warm and inviting, and the staff made us feel right at home. We savored every bite of our meal, appreciating the fresh flavors and the care that went into each dish. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Fossheim Hotell - Restaurant in Lom, where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can still feel the warmth of the sun on my face, the wind in my hair, and the ache in my muscles. Today was a day of challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments. We conquered Besseggen Ridge, immersed ourselves in the beauty of Jotunheimen National Park, and created memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Vettisfossen, one of Norway's tallest waterfalls, and visit the Norwegian Fjellcenter [If Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I'm already looking forward to more adventures and breathtaking scenery [If Itinerary of Tomorrow]. Until then, goodnight from the home of the giants!