A Family Adventure in Jotunheimen National Park

A Symphony of Scenery

Today was a day of embracing the sheer magnificence of Jotunheimen National Park. We set out with a simple plan: to soak in the natural beauty around us, and Jotunheimen certainly delivered. From the soothing sounds of rushing rivers to the panoramic views atop Sognefjell Road, every moment felt like a scene from a Nordic saga.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Skeistua. Aino, ever the early bird, was practically bouncing with excitement, eager to start the day's adventure. Markus, still a bit sleepy, appreciated the strong coffee and traditional Norwegian pastries. I savored the moment, knowing that these simple family breakfasts are the memories we'll cherish for years to come.

After breakfast, we set off towards the river view. The crisp mountain air filled our lungs as we approached the viewpoint. The river snaked its way through the landscape, a ribbon of silver reflecting the clear sky. Aino, inspired, immediately started sketching in her travel journal, capturing the scene with her artistic flair. Markus and I simply stood in awe, the sound of the rushing water a calming soundtrack to our thoughts. It reminded me of summers in Alaska, listening to the Kenai River as a child, a comforting echo from my past.


Discover the beauty of nature at River View in Nordberg, a tranquil escape perfect for leisurely strolls and breathtaking scenery.

The journey is the destination, especially when that journey takes you through the heart of Norway's most stunning landscapes.

Our next destination was Sognefjell Road, the highest mountain pass in Northern Europe. The drive itself was an experience. As we ascended, the landscape transformed dramatically. Lush meadows gave way to rugged terrain, and the air grew noticeably cooler. The road twisted and turned, each bend revealing a new vista more breathtaking than the last. We stopped frequently to take photos, capturing the towering peaks and pristine glaciers that defined the horizon. I couldn't help but think of the stories I've read about trolls and mythical creatures inhabiting these mountains; it was easy to imagine them lurking behind every rock and snowdrift.

Reaching the summit at 1400 meters was exhilarating. The panoramic views were simply astounding. We could see for miles in every direction, the vastness of Jotunheimen stretching out before us. Aino, bundled in her warmest sweater, declared it the most beautiful place she had ever seen. Markus, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the engineering of the road itself, marveling at how it was built and maintained at such a high altitude. It was truly a family moment, all of us united in our appreciation for the natural world.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sognefjell Road, one of Norway's most scenic mountain passes, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

On our way down from Sognefjell Road, we stopped at Sport 1 Lom. I realized, much to my dismay, that I had forgotten to pack extra batteries for my camera – a crucial oversight for a photography enthusiast like myself. Thankfully, the shop had exactly what I needed, and I breathed a sigh of relief, imagining the missed photo opportunities averted. We also picked up a small, hand-carved wooden troll for Aino, a souvenir to remind her of the myths and legends of Jotunheimen. I also bought a new hiking pole, as mine broke while going up the mountain.


Discover Sport 1 Lom, your go-to sporting goods store in the heart of Norway's stunning outdoor landscape, offering everything you need for your adventures.

Lunch was a simple affair. We found a scenic spot within Jotunheimen National Park, spread out our picnic blanket, and enjoyed sandwiches and fruit amidst the stunning scenery. Even the simplest meal tastes extraordinary when enjoyed in such a setting. As we ate, we discussed our plans for the rest of the trip, poring over maps and guidebooks, eager to discover more of Norway's hidden gems.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Lom, a charming village nestled at the foot of the mountains. We had dinner at Bryggjehuset Kafe & Pub. The pub had a cozy atmosphere and a lovely terrace overlooking the fjord. While the reviews I had read mentioned mixed opinions about the food, we decided to give it a try. Markus and I opted for the fish soup, a local specialty, while Aino, predictably, chose pizza. The food was decent, but the view and the ambiance more than made up for any shortcomings. The friendly staff also helped create a welcoming atmosphere, making us feel right at home.


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

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through Lom. The village had a quaint charm, with its traditional wooden buildings and stunning mountain backdrop. We even popped into the Lom Stave Church, admiring its intricate carvings and rich history. Aino was fascinated by the Viking-era artifacts on display, her imagination running wild with tales of Norse warriors and ancient gods.

Back at our campsite, as the stars began to emerge, we gathered around a crackling fire. Markus strummed a few chords on his travel guitar, Aino hummed along, and I read aloud from my book of Nordic myths. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a reminder of the simple joys of family, nature, and shared experiences. I was glad I had remembered to bring my travel journal, and I wrote down all the details of the day so I could share it with you all!

Tomorrow, we plan to explore a waterfall lookout and Dumdalen Grotten, and perhaps even visit a local pub. Until then, goodnight from Jotunheimen!

I've been trying to find events happening around here, but it seems September is a quite month. Perhaps we'll stumble upon something unexpected, which is always a welcome surprise on these adventures. I also need to remember to pick up a portable solar charger, since I forgot that at home. I am also running low on camera batteries, so I'll need to remember to grab some more of those too! I’m hoping to capture some great shots of the waterfall tomorrow!

It's funny how travel can bring both unexpected challenges and profound moments of connection. Even the simple act of driving along a mountain road can turn into a cherished memory, a testament to the beauty and wonder of the world around us. As I drift off to sleep, I'm filled with gratitude for this incredible journey and the opportunity to share it with my family. And, of course, with all of you!

I can't wait to share more adventures with you all soon!