Family Adventure in Jotunheimen National Park

A Day of High Peaks and Waterfalls

Today was a day of embracing the heights and depths of Jotunheimen National Park. With Markus and Aino by my side, we set out to conquer Bitihorn, a peak that promised panoramic views, and to witness the cascading beauty of Videfossen. It was a day filled with fresh air, stunning landscapes, and the kind of simple joys that make family adventures unforgettable.


Explore Bitihorn: A breathtaking peak in Jotunheimen National Park, offering stunning views and exceptional hiking trails for all adventurers.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hindsæter. The restaurant prides itself on using local, ecological produce, and it truly showed in the quality of the food. I savored every bite, knowing we needed the energy for our upcoming hike. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service set a positive tone for the day. Aino was particularly excited about the prospect of climbing a mountain, her boundless energy already bubbling over.

Fueled up and ready, we drove towards Bitihorn. The weather in August is usually moderately chilly, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 13°C. Luckily, today was on the warmer side, with light rain in the afternoon. As we started our ascent, the trail was initially a fairly flat alpine meadow. The path gradually inclined, becoming steeper and rockier as we gained altitude. Aino, ever the energetic one, scampered ahead, while Markus and I took a more measured pace, enjoying the views that unfolded with each step.

The hike itself was a mix of terrains, from muddy patches and small streams to a seemingly never-ending boulder field. White poles and red markers guided our way, and we stuck to the right, as recommended. I was grateful for my sturdy hiking boots, a definite essential from our packing list. I did miss the insect repellent we'd forgotten; those little buggers were out in full force!

Reaching the summit of Bitihorn (1607m) was an exhilarating experience. The panoramic view of Lake Bygdin and the southern Jotunheimen Peaks was simply breathtaking. We could see for miles in every direction, the vastness of the landscape humbling and inspiring. Despite the wind, we lingered at the top, taking photos and soaking in the majesty of the surroundings.

The best views come after the hardest climbs.

After descending Bitihorn, our appetites were calling, so we headed to Jotunstogo AS for lunch. This café in Beitostølen is known for its tasty hamburgers, taro, and pork dishes. The atmosphere was comfortable, and the staff were friendly. Aino was thrilled to find a kids' room with glass windows alongside the dining area, allowing us to keep an eye on her while we enjoyed our meal. I opted for a traditional Norwegian dish of beef with pepper sauce, while Markus tried the Norwegian pork dish with hash browns. Both were delicious and satisfying.

With our bellies full, we set off to Videfossen waterfall. The drive was scenic, winding through lush valleys and past dramatic cliffs. As we approached Videfossen, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation. The clifftop viewpoint offered an incredible vista of the waterfall, the lush valley, and the towering Skålafjellet mountain. We took our time here, capturing the beauty of the falls from every angle.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Videfossen Waterfall, a must-visit scenic spot along Norway's historic Gamle Strynefjellsveg.

After our fill of natural wonders, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at Hansen & Dysvik Lom. This home goods store in Fossbergom specializes in handcrafted items that reflect Norwegian artistry. I was immediately drawn to the beautifully designed kitchenware and exquisite textiles. We ended up purchasing a hand-knitted wool blanket, a perfect memento of our trip and a cozy addition to our Helsinki home.


Explore Hansen & Dysvik Lom, a charming home goods store in Fossbergom, offering handcrafted treasures and authentic Norwegian souvenirs.

For dinner, we treated ourselves to a meal at Herangtunet Boutique Hotel Norway. This family-run design hotel offers a personal touch, hearty food, and themed rooms in a traditional Norwegian timber house. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, complete with a wood-burning stove. We enjoyed characteristic Norwegian dishes, savoring the flavors and the ambiance. The staff was exceptionally hospitable, making us feel right at home.


Experience unparalleled comfort at Herangtunet Boutique Hotel in Norway – where luxury meets breathtaking natural beauty.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our adventures. From the challenging hike up Bitihorn to the serene beauty of Videfossen, every moment was a treasure. Jotunheimen National Park continues to surprise and delight us with its natural wonders and cultural richness. I feel so grateful to be sharing these experiences with my family.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Rondane National Park and visit Juvasshytta. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us. Perhaps we'll stop by Bryggerihuset AS (Brew House) for a well-deserved drink after a day of exploring. For now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of discovery.

It’s funny, before moving to Finland I never thought much about Nordic folklore. However, living here and especially travelling through Norway, I find myself more and more drawn to the old tales and myths. It's like the landscape itself whispers stories of ancient gods and mythical creatures. Perhaps I’ll pick up that guidebook on Nordic myths I packed but haven’t yet opened!

And I really must remember to buy a portable phone charger. It's a bit of a pain to have to ration battery when I want to take so many photos. But hey, even small inconveniences can be part of the adventure, right? Good night from Jotunheimen!