A Family Adventure in Jotunheimen National Park

Whispers of the Past, Views of the Present

Today was a day where the past and present beautifully intertwined, leaving me with a sense of wonder and a deeper connection to Norway's rich heritage. We embarked on a journey that took us through ancient sites and breathtaking landscapes, creating memories that I know our family will cherish for years to come.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ruten Fjellstue. After a good night's sleep nestled in our tent, the smell of freshly brewed coffee and warm bread was just what we needed to kickstart our explorations. Aino was particularly excited, recounting dreams of trolls and mythical creatures she'd encountered in her sleep, fueled by the Nordic tales I've been reading to her. It's moments like these that make this trip so special, blending adventure with the magic of storytelling.

Lomen Stave Church: A Step Back in Time

Our first stop was Lomen Stave Church. As a librarian with a penchant for history, I was particularly eager to see this ancient wooden structure. It is located in the village of Lomen. The church was built around the year 1192. Stepping inside Lomen Stave Church felt like stepping back in time. The air was thick with the scent of aged wood, and the dim light filtering through the small windows cast long shadows across the ancient carvings. I could almost hear the whispers of centuries past. The kids were surprisingly captivated, their imaginations running wild as they examined the intricate details of the portals and column capitals. Aino peppered me with questions about the people who built the church and the stories they might have shared within its walls. Markus, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the engineering marvel of the structure, marveling at how it had stood the test of time. The oldest coin that has been found at the site is from King Sverre's era, dating back to 1177-1202.

To walk through Lomen Stave Church is to feel the weight of history, to connect with the generations who sought solace and community within its timeworn walls.

The church's history is palpable, with records dating back to 1325, although the structure itself is much older. Originally known as Hvams kirke, it features a rectangular nave and a chancel. The church is supported by four columns and has three carved portals. I was particularly moved by the knowledge that the church is still used for special occasions during the summer, such as weddings and baptisms. It's a testament to the enduring power of tradition and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. I made sure to get Aino a little sketching pad from the small gift store so she could capture the stave church in her own little way. She loves to draw and I hope she will remember this day forever.


Explore the historic Lomen Stave Church, a stunning example of Norway's stave architecture nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Lomen.

Scenic Route Valdresflye: A Tundra Drive

After immersing ourselves in the past, we set off on a scenic drive along the NASJONAL TURISTVEG Valdresflye, also known as the Valdresflye Scenic Route. This route is known for its stunning views and high-altitude landscape. The road runs for 49 km from Garli to Hindsæter. The drive from Lomen to Valdresflye was an experience in itself. The landscape transformed dramatically as we ascended, from lush valleys to a stark, treeless expanse. The air grew crisper, and the wind picked up, carrying with it the scent of heather and wildflowers. The Valdresflye road was completed in 1954. The highest point of the Valdresflye road sits at 1,389 meters above sea level.

Markus, with his love for driving, was in his element, navigating the winding roads with practiced ease. Aino and I, meanwhile, were glued to the windows, mesmerized by the panoramic views. The landscape was so raw and untamed, a vast expanse of tundra stretching as far as the eye could see. It felt like we were on top of the world, with nothing but sky and mountains surrounding us. The road was built to improve access to isolated regions.

We stopped at several viewpoints along the way, each offering a unique perspective on the landscape. Vargbakkane provided a great view towards the 2000m-summits. We took a short detour to Lake Gjende, a stunning body of water nestled amidst the mountains. The kids enjoyed scrambling over the rocks and dipping their toes in the icy water, while I took the opportunity to capture the scenery with my camera. I am hoping to get some nice photos for my blog, but also to make a photobook from our trip so we can always look back at these amazing adventures.


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

Lunch with a View

For lunch, we stopped at Herangtunet Boutique Hotel Norway, a charming spot that offered a welcome respite from the wind. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food were just what we needed to recharge before continuing our journey. We enjoyed warm bowls of traditional Norwegian soup and hearty sandwiches, savoring the flavors of the region. Aino, predictably, opted for a plate of waffles with berries and cream, a treat she declared was the perfect fuel for further adventures. It was nice to sit inside for a little while and warm up before heading back out into the cold.


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

Shopping for Souvenirs (and Warmth)

Our final stop of the day was at ULU of Norway, a shop known for its natural clothing and unique products. As the temperature continued to drop, we decided to invest in some warmer layers. I picked up a beautiful hand-knitted wool scarf, while Markus found a sturdy pair of gloves. Aino, of course, gravitated towards the colorful display of handmade toys, eventually settling on a small wooden troll to add to her growing collection of Nordic souvenirs. I also learned that ULU of Norway uses skin from local animals that live in the wild and that all their methods are 100% natural. I love supporting companies that focus on sustainability.


Explore the artistry of needlework at ULU of Norway, a charming shop showcasing handcrafted goods and creative workshops in the heart of Vågå.

Dinner and Reflections

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Banken Bryggeri & Spiseri for dinner. The warm, inviting atmosphere of the brewery was a welcome contrast to the chilly mountain air. We enjoyed hearty portions of traditional Norwegian fare, washing it down with locally brewed beer (for Markus and me, of course). Aino was thrilled with her plate of kjøttkaker (Norwegian meatballs), declaring it the best meal of the trip so far. I sat back and enjoyed the moment, feeling grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. It's moments like these that make all the planning and preparation worthwhile.


Discover the flavors of Norway at Banken Bryggeri & Spiseri in Bjølstadmo – where local cuisine meets scenic beauty.

Back at our tent, as we settled in for the night, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's adventures. From the ancient echoes of Lomen Stave Church to the breathtaking vistas of Valdresflye, it had been a day of discovery and connection. I felt a deeper appreciation for Norway's rich history and stunning natural beauty, and I was grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. The wind howled outside our tent, but inside, we were warm and content, our hearts full of memories that would last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Lom bygdamuseun and DNT Fondsbu. I am excited to see what other adventures await us in this beautiful country. I think Aino will especially love the museum, and I am also excited to perhaps find some more inspiration in the museum for my work back home in the library. I wonder what tomorrow will bring.