Family Adventure in Jotunheimen National Park

Scenic Routes and Small-Town Treasures

Today was a day of breathtaking vistas and charming discoveries as we continued our journey through Norway. The open road beckoned, promising stunning landscapes and quaint villages, and it certainly delivered. It’s amazing how a simple drive can turn into an unforgettable experience when surrounded by such natural beauty.

Our morning started with a hearty breakfast at Aasgaard stogo in Beitostølen. The cozy atmosphere and traditional Norwegian fare set the perfect tone for the day. I opted for the classic *rømmegrøt*, a sour cream porridge that reminded me of my childhood in Alaska, while Markus enjoyed a plate of *spekemat*, cured meats that he absolutely loves. Aino, ever adventurous, tried both and declared them “interesting,” which is high praise coming from her. It's these small moments, sharing food and experiences, that make our family trips so special.


Discover authentic Norwegian cuisine at Aasgaard Stogo in Beitostølen, where local flavors meet stunning landscapes for an unforgettable dining experience.

After breakfast, we embarked on the NASJONAL TURISTVEG Valdresflye, a scenic route that promised panoramic views of Jotunheimen National Park. The drive itself was an experience, with winding roads climbing higher and higher, revealing ever more stunning vistas. The landscape was a mix of rocky mountain terrain and soft, green valleys, a testament to Norway's diverse natural beauty. Markus, always the enthusiastic driver, was in his element, navigating the curves with a grin. Aino, initially glued to her book, soon abandoned it to gaze out the window, captivated by the unfolding scenery. I couldn’t resist snapping photos at every turn, trying to capture the essence of this majestic place. It’s impossible, of course, to truly convey the feeling of being there, surrounded by such grandeur, but I do my best to share the experience with all of you.


Explore the breathtaking Valdresflye Scenic Route, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await in the heart of Norway.

The beauty of nature is not just in what you see, but in how it makes you feel.

One of our stops along the Valdresflye route was Steinplassen, a monument dedicated to cairns found on mountains. It was a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the region, a reminder of how people have traversed these landscapes for centuries. We took a short hike around the area, enjoying the crisp mountain air and the sense of being utterly immersed in nature. Aino, always curious, peppered us with questions about the cairns, their purpose, and the stories they held. I love how travel ignites her curiosity and encourages her to learn about the world around her.


Experience the breathtaking views at Steinplassen, a stunning vista point on Valdresflye, showcasing Norway's majestic landscapes.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to Lom, a charming village known as the “National Park Village”. Our first stop was Skogstad Lom, a clothing store specializing in sports and leisure wear. We needed to replenish our supply of insect repellent, a crucial item we had forgotten to pack. While there, we also picked up a few souvenirs, including a cozy wool hat for Aino and a sturdy hiking jacket for Markus. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for the unpredictable mountain weather.


Explore Skogstad Lom for top-notch sportswear and gear, perfect for your Norwegian outdoor adventures and more.

For lunch, we stopped at Diner 13 in Lom. Despite its American name, it offered a mix of local and international cuisine. Aino couldn’t resist ordering a classic burger and fries, while Markus and I opted for traditional Norwegian sandwiches. It was a casual and satisfying meal, perfect for refueling after a day of driving and hiking.


Experience the best of American comfort food at Diner 13 in Tretten – where every meal feels like home.

After lunch, we spent some time exploring Lom, wandering through its quaint streets and admiring the traditional wooden buildings. The village has a unique charm, a blend of old-world character and modern amenities. We popped into a few local shops, browsing through handcrafted goods and local delicacies. It's these small towns that often hold the greatest treasures, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of a region.

As evening approached, we checked into Valdres Gjestegård for dinner. The restaurant offered a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the menu featured a range of regional specialties. I decided on *reinsdyrskav*, a sautéed reindeer dish that was rich and flavorful, while Markus enjoyed a hearty portion of *fårikål*, a traditional mutton and cabbage stew. Aino, surprisingly, opted for the fish soup, a testament to her growing culinary adventurousness. The meal was a perfect end to a day of exploration and discovery, a chance to savor the flavors of Norway and reflect on the beauty we had witnessed.


Discover Valdres Gjestegård: A perfect blend of tradition and comfort in Norway's beautiful Valdres region.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Jotunheimen National Park, with visits to The Hand and Dumdalen Grotten on the itinerary. I’m particularly excited about The Hand, a unique art installation that promises stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Dumdalen Grotten, a mysterious cave, also sounds like a wonderful adventure. Before heading out, we'll have breakfast at Steaks & Bones - Huset, ensuring we're fueled up for another day of exploration. And, if we have time in the evening, we might check out Pøbben, a local bar, for a taste of Norwegian nightlife.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this incredible country with my family. Norway has a way of captivating the senses, of reminding you of the beauty and power of nature. It’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve left, a source of inspiration and wonder. I hope that my words and photos can convey even a fraction of the magic we’ve encountered here. Until tomorrow, *ha det bra*!

One of the things I appreciate most about our travels is the way they bring us closer as a family. Whether we're hiking through stunning landscapes, trying new foods, or simply sharing stories around a campfire, these experiences create lasting memories and strengthen our bonds. I cherish these moments, knowing that they will stay with us long after the trip is over.

On a personal note, I find that being surrounded by nature has a calming and restorative effect. As a librarian, I spend much of my time indoors, immersed in books and research. While I love my work, it's important for me to escape the confines of the library and reconnect with the natural world. Hiking, photography, and simply breathing in the fresh mountain air help me to recharge and find a sense of balance.

Markus, with his background as a software engineer, also appreciates the opportunity to disconnect from technology and immerse himself in nature. He enjoys the challenge of navigating new terrains, the satisfaction of reaching a summit, and the simple pleasure of being outdoors. He also has a keen interest in photography, and often captures stunning images of the landscapes we explore.

Aino, with her boundless energy and curiosity, is always eager to explore new places and try new things. She embraces every adventure with enthusiasm, whether it's hiking through forests, climbing rocks, or sampling local delicacies. She also has a creative spirit, and often expresses her experiences through drawings, stories, and songs.

As we continue our journey through Norway, I'm excited to see what new adventures await us. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, and I hope that my blog posts can inspire others to explore the world and create their own lasting memories.

Before I sign off for the night, I wanted to share a quote that resonates with me:

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” - Saint Augustine

This quote reminds me of the importance of travel, of stepping outside our comfort zones and experiencing new cultures, landscapes, and ways of life. It also reminds me of the power of storytelling, of sharing our experiences and inspiring others to embark on their own adventures.

So, until tomorrow, I bid you *god natt* (good night) and wish you all safe and happy travels! I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow brings, and I look forward to sharing them with you all. Stay tuned for more tales from Jotunheimen National Park! The anticipation of what lies ahead is almost as exciting as the experiences themselves. I'm eager to uncover more hidden gems, capture more breathtaking views, and create more lasting memories with my family. The journey continues, and I'm thrilled to have you along for the ride.

And now, as the day comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the simple joys of travel: the laughter shared with loved ones, the unexpected discoveries made along the way, and the sense of wonder that comes from experiencing something new. These are the moments that make travel so rewarding, the moments that stay with us long after we've returned home. So, let's cherish these moments, embrace the unknown, and continue to explore the world with open hearts and curious minds. Good night, everyone!