A Family Adventure in Jotunheimen National Park

Home of the Giants: Day One in Jotunheimen

The air is crisp, the sky a brilliant blue, and the landscape? Absolutely breathtaking. Today marked the beginning of our family's 11-day adventure in Jotunheimen National Park, a place that has captured my imagination for years with its towering peaks and rich Nordic history. Leaving Helsinki behind, we embarked on a journey that started with a drive to Oslo, followed by a rental car adventure to the heart of Norway's giant country. The promise of dramatic landscapes and family bonding was strong, and Jotunheimen did not disappoint on this first day.

Our day began bright and early with a hearty breakfast at Sjodalstugu. This cozy restaurant offered stunning views of the surrounding meadows, hills, and lakes, setting the perfect tone for our adventure. Sipping on strong coffee and enjoying freshly baked cinnamon rolls, we felt the excitement building for the day ahead. Aino was particularly thrilled, her eyes wide with anticipation as she looked out at the landscape, already imagining the trolls and mythical creatures that might be lurking just beyond the horizon. It felt great to start the day with a meal that tasted like it was made with love, fueling us up for all of the day's adventures.


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

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore Jotunheimen. The name itself, meaning Home of the Giants, immediately transported me back to my librarian days, poring over Nordic mythology and folklore. I couldn't wait to share these stories with Markus and Aino, bringing the legends to life amidst this stunning backdrop.

The drive itself was an experience. We decided to take Jotunheimvegen, a scenic toll road that winds through the heart of the national park. As we started our drive along Jotunheimvegen, I was immediately struck by the raw, untamed beauty of the landscape. The road, a gravel track stretching 45 kilometers, felt like a pathway into another world. Around every bend, a new vista unfolded – towering peaks, lush valleys, and serene lakes reflecting the sky. The air was clean and crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. It was the kind of place that made you want to roll down the windows and breathe deeply, soaking in every moment.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Jotunheimvegen, a must-visit scenic route in Norway's stunning Jotunheimen National Park.

Sometimes, the greatest stories are not found in books, but in the landscapes we explore and the memories we create.

The road, only open during the summer months, offered breathtaking views at every turn. We stopped frequently to capture photos and simply soak in the scenery. Aino, armed with her camera, was in her element, snapping pictures of everything from the towering peaks to the grazing livestock. Markus, ever the pragmatist, made sure to check the car regularly, ensuring we were prepared for the rugged terrain. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this opportunity to disconnect from our busy lives and reconnect with nature and each other.

One of the highlights of our drive was spotting a herd of reindeer grazing in the distance. Aino was ecstatic, whispering, Look, Mom, it's just like in the Sami stories! It was moments like these that made the trip so special, blending the magic of folklore with the reality of the natural world. We learned that Jotunheimvegen was built in the 1950s, replacing a milk boat service that was essential to the local communities. It's fascinating to think about how this road, now a popular tourist route, once served as a vital lifeline for the people living in these remote areas.

For lunch, we stopped at Jotunheimen Fjellstue, a restaurant known for its traditional Norwegian cuisine and stunning views. We savored local delicacies like reindeer meat and cured sausages, all while enjoying the panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. The food was hearty and delicious, providing the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventures. Aino even tried a bite of reindeer, declaring it surprisingly good! The staff was incredibly welcoming, sharing stories about the area and offering tips for the best hiking trails. It felt like we were getting an authentic taste of Jotunheimen, both literally and figuratively.


Experience breathtaking landscapes and delightful Norwegian cuisine at Jotunheimen Fjellstue in the heart of Norway's stunning national park.

After lunch, we decided to explore Fossheim Steinsenter, a geological museum and shop in Lom. As a librarian with a love for all things historical and geological, I was in heaven. The museum boasted an impressive collection of minerals and gemstones, including Norway's national stone, thulite. Aino was fascinated by the displays, especially the fossils and Stone Age tools. We even learned about a nearby thulite quarry where visitors can search for their own specimens.


Discover the enchanting Fossheim Steinsenter in Fossbergom, where local minerals, crafts, and Norwegian artistry come together in a unique shopping and educational experience.

The shop was equally captivating, filled with handmade jewelry, souvenirs, and artifacts crafted from Norwegian stones. I couldn't resist purchasing a small silver pendant featuring a piece of thulite, a reminder of our time in Jotunheimen. Aino, of course, gravitated towards the free mineral pile outside, happily collecting colorful stones to add to her growing collection. Markus, surprisingly, found himself drawn to the displays of local minerals, intrigued by the geological history of the region. It was a perfect way to spend the afternoon, learning about the natural wonders of Jotunheimen and finding unique treasures to take home.

Our first day in Jotunheimen culminated in a delightful dinner at Fossheim Hotell - Restaurant. The restaurant is renowned for its gourmet cuisine, focusing on local ingredients and traditional Norwegian flavors. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with a warm fireplace and friendly staff. We savored every bite of our meal, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the day. As we sat there, surrounded by the beauty of Jotunheimen, I felt a deep sense of contentment. This trip was already exceeding my expectations, and I couldn't wait to see what tomorrow would bring.


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

As the evening drew to a close, we settled into our tent, nestled amidst the serene landscape. The temperature was dropping, a reminder that September in Jotunheimen can be quite chilly. I double-checked our sleeping bags and made sure Aino was snug and warm. Before drifting off to sleep, I read her a story from a book of Nordic myths, her eyes wide with wonder as she imagined the giants roaming these very mountains. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

Tomorrow, we plan to tackle Galdhøpiggen, the highest mountain in Scandinavia, and visit the Sognefjellet Viewing Point. I'm a little nervous about the climb, but also incredibly excited to challenge myself and witness the panoramic views from the summit. We'll also be stopping at a local bar called Pøbben, a chance to unwind and soak in the local atmosphere. For now, though, I'm content to drift off to sleep, dreaming of giants, gravel roads, and the magic of Jotunheimen.

It's interesting to note that September in Jotunheimen offers a unique blend of autumnal beauty and tranquility. The landscape is awash in vibrant colors, and the crowds are significantly smaller than in the peak summer months. However, it's essential to be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions, as temperatures can fluctuate rapidly and snow is not uncommon. Despite the challenges, the rewards of visiting Jotunheimen in September are well worth the effort. You get to experience the raw, untamed beauty of the park in a more intimate and personal way, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Despite forgetting our portable solar charger and extra camera batteries, our first day in Jotunheimen was a resounding success. The beauty of the landscape, the warmth of the local people, and the joy of spending quality time with my family made it an unforgettable experience. I can't wait to share more of our adventures in the days to come. Stay tuned!