A Family Adventure in Jotunheimen National Park

Whispers of Water and Woods

Today was a day of embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Jotunheimen, a place where the veil between worlds feels thin. It was a day filled with the thunderous roar of cascading water and the quiet whispers of ancient forests, a symphony of nature that stirred something deep within my soul. I felt a profound connection to the land, a sense of belonging that resonated with the Nordic myths I've spent years studying. It was a reminder that some stories are best told not through words, but through experiences.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Andre Etasje in Lom. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of home-cooked goodness were the perfect start to our adventurous day. Fuelled up, we set off towards Årdal, eager to witness the majestic Vettisfossen.


Discover the breathtaking Vettisfossen, one of Norway's tallest and most beautiful waterfalls, surrounded by stunning landscapes and hiking trails.

The drive itself was a scenic prelude, winding through valleys painted in autumnal hues. As we approached Vettisfossen, the anticipation grew with each turn. The hike to the waterfall is about 5.5 km (3.4 miles) from Øvre Årdal. The moderate trail passed through picturesque landscapes, including smaller waterfalls and the historic Vetti Farm. The crisp air, scented with pine and damp earth, invigorated us as we started our trek towards the falls. The trail was well-maintained, a mix of gravel paths and rocky ascents, making it accessible for Aino, who was excited, and me, who was determined to keep up. Markus, ever the supportive husband, kept us both motivated with stories and encouraging words.

As we neared Vettisfossen, the ground trembled beneath our feet, the air thick with the mist thrown up by the plunging water. And then, we saw it. Vettisfossen is one of Norway's tallest waterfalls, and the 284th tallest in the world. The waterfall has a free-falling drop of 275 meters (902 feet). The sight was simply breathtaking. The sheer power and scale of the falls were humbling, a testament to the forces of nature that have shaped this land for millennia. We stood there for a long time, mesmerized by the cascading water, feeling the cool spray on our faces, and listening to the thunderous roar that echoed through the valley.

The experience of witnessing Vettisfossen was a potent reminder of nature's capacity to inspire awe and wonder, leaving me humbled and deeply connected to the world around me.

After soaking in the majesty of Vettisfossen, we drove towards the Hulderstigen trail. We stopped for a quick lunch at Gjendeosen Kiosk, a charming spot known for its traditional Norwegian fare. Aino devoured a pastry, while Markus and I enjoyed hearty sandwiches. The kiosk was bustling with hikers and travelers, all eager to refuel before their next adventure. It was a great place to have a light meal, with local specialties like reindeer stew and freshly baked pastries.


Explore the natural beauty of Hulderstigen in Tessanden, Norway - an ideal retreat for hikers and nature lovers seeking tranquility and breathtaking views.

Hulderstigen, or the Path of the Hulder, promised a gentler, more mystical experience. According to folklore, Huldras are alluring forest creatures, often depicted as beautiful women with long hair and cow tails, who lure men into the woods. As a librarian with a penchant for Nordic mythology, I couldn't resist the allure of this trail.

The Hulderstigen hike in Jotunheimen National Park is unknown, but very beautiful and relaxing. The hike is without climbs and therefore really walkable for everyone. The trail meandered through a dense forest of ancient spruces and birch trees, the sunlight filtering through the canopy in dappled patterns. The air was still and quiet, save for the occasional rustle of leaves and the distant bleating of sheep. Aino, wide-eyed with wonder, skipped ahead, imagining she could spot a Hulder lurking behind every tree.

The path leads really idyllic through the original forest in the national park and for a long time past a stream before you reach a large lake approximately in the middle of the Hulderstigen hike. There is also a guest book hidden in a wooden box in which you should definitely sign. Also, you should definitely look in between at the numerous information boards along the way.

Along the Hulderstigen, we passed small streams, forest ponds, and several information signs along the trail. The trail itself took about an hour and a half and is about 5.5 km long. At the start of the tour, over the beautiful timber bridge over Sjoa, there is an information sign where you can find information about the tour itself. Hulderstigen is a nice little round in Stuttgonglia nature reserve with 15 posts along the way. Here you get information about the nature and culture along the path and in Sjodalen. It was so idyllic and quiet this Sunday morning, as the area had not fully awakened to life yet and there was no one else to see.

The Hulderstigen lived up to its mystical reputation. The forest felt ancient and alive, imbued with a sense of magic that was both enchanting and slightly unsettling. We kept a respectful silence, aware of the unseen forces that might be watching us. I found myself wondering about the stories these woods could tell, the secrets they held within their gnarled roots and towering trees. The trail was designed as a cultural and educational trail, there are a total of 15 information boards along the entire length of the hike on which you can find information about the history of the landscape, the wildlife or the plants in the area.

As dusk began to settle, we made our way back to Lom, our hearts full of the day's experiences. Before heading back to our tent, we treated ourselves to dinner at Hindsæter, a historic hotel known for its traditional Norwegian cuisine and warm hospitality. The restaurant prides itself on using local, organic ingredients, and specializes in reindeer from Vågå tamreinlag. The cozy atmosphere and the delicious food were the perfect end to our day of adventure.


Discover Hindsæter: A scenic restaurant and wellness hotel offering exquisite cuisine amidst Norway's breathtaking landscapes.

The meal was a celebration of local flavors, a culinary journey through the heart of Jotunheimen. We savored every bite, feeling grateful for the experiences we had shared and the memories we had made. As we sat by the crackling fire, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me. This trip was more than just a vacation; it was a pilgrimage to a land of myth and legend, a chance to connect with my roots and share the magic of Norway with my family.

Tomorrow, we're planning a hike in Jotunheimen National Park, specifically towards Besseggen. I've heard that the views from the top are simply stunning, and I'm eager to experience the panoramic vistas for myself. I'm also looking forward to stopping by Bryggerihuset AS (Brew House), a local bar, for a taste of Norwegian craft beer. I have a feeling tomorrow will be another day filled with adventure and wonder, a chance to delve deeper into the heart of Jotunheimen's beauty and mystery.

Before drifting off to sleep, I opened my travel journal and scribbled down a few thoughts. Today had been a reminder that the most meaningful journeys are not just about seeing new places, but about connecting with the stories and legends that give those places their unique character. As I closed my eyes, I could still hear the thunderous roar of Vettisfossen and the quiet whispers of the Hulderstigen, a symphony of nature and myth that would stay with me long after we left Jotunheimen. The experience of the day has definitely kindled my curiosity about the Nordic region. I can't wait to share more of my experiences with you!

Skogstad Lom is a clothing store with sports and leisure clothing for the whole family, situated in Lom National Park Village. Skogstad was created in 1937 on the shores of Nordfjord, in Norway. All you need are the right clothes for the right conditions and the right occasion, which you find at the shop Skogstad Lom.


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