Exploring the Wild Beauty of Hardangervidda National Park

A Day of Nature's Wonders

Today was nothing short of spectacular, a true testament to the raw beauty of Norway. From cascading waterfalls to the legendary Trolltunga, Hardangervidda National Park continued to amaze us at every turn. The memories we created today will undoubtedly be etched in our minds forever, especially for Zofia, who is absorbing all these new experiences like a little sponge.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Stigstuv turisthytte AS. The cozy atmosphere of the cabin was just what we needed to fuel up for the adventures ahead. The unprofessional staff was the only thing that could spoil your evening at this restaurant. After a satisfying meal, we packed our essentials and set off towards our first destination: Vøringsfossen. The drive itself was breathtaking, with panoramic views of the Hardangervidda plateau stretching out before us. As an automotive mechatronics technician, I couldn't help but appreciate the engineering marvels that allowed us to traverse this rugged terrain with ease. It's amazing how far automotive technology has come, allowing families like ours to explore even the most remote corners of the world.

Arriving at Vøringsfossen, the sheer power and grandeur of the waterfall were immediately apparent. The falls plunge an impressive 182 meters, with 145 meters of free fall, creating a thunderous roar that reverberated through the Måbødalen Valley. Zofia was particularly captivated, her eyes wide with wonder as she watched the water cascade down the cliff face. The weather was mostly cloudy with temperatures around 8 degrees Celsius. The air quality was fair. We spent a good hour exploring the various viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective of this natural wonder. I was pleased to see that some of the viewpoints were wheelchair accessible, adhering to the European Accessibility Act, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, could experience the beauty of Vøringsfossen. Katarzyna and I took turns snapping photos, trying to capture the essence of this awe-inspiring sight. I even managed to get a few good shots with the drone, being mindful of the regulations and other visitors. The new stair bridge connecting the two sides of the waterfall was a welcome addition, allowing us to easily explore both vantage points.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Vøringsfossen, Norway's iconic waterfall plunging into the stunning Måbødalen valley.

The beauty of nature lies not just in its grandeur, but in its ability to evoke a sense of peace and wonder within us.

After Vøringsfossen, we were ready for the big one: Trolltunga. The drive to the trailhead was scenic, winding through the picturesque landscapes of Hardangerfjord. Knowing that the hike to Trolltunga is long and demanding, we made sure to stock up on supplies at a local shop before heading out. The weather forecast predicted cloudy conditions with temperatures around 6 degrees Celsius, so we layered up in warm clothing. I had checked the weather forecast, and while it wasn't ideal, it seemed manageable.

The hike itself was every bit as challenging as we had anticipated. The trail is approximately 27 kilometers round trip from P2 Skjeggedal, with an ascent of 800 meters. The first few kilometers were particularly brutal, a steep climb over rocky terrain that tested our endurance. Zofia, to her credit, was a real trooper, keeping up with surprising energy and enthusiasm. Of course, we had to take frequent breaks to keep her motivated, but she never complained. I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride as I watched her tackle this challenging hike with such determination.

As we climbed higher, the landscape transformed into a winter wonderland, with patches of snow covering the ground. The views, however, were simply stunning, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and fjords. We passed several meltwater streams, carefully navigating our way across the slippery rocks. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the sound of our footsteps and the occasional bird call.

About halfway through the hike, we stopped for lunch at Vik Café & Restaurant. The food was delicious and the service was excellent. The scenery, the inside was super cosy and big. Re-energized, we continued our trek towards Trolltunga. The final stretch of the hike was particularly challenging, with steep inclines and icy patches that required careful footing. But the thought of reaching our destination kept us going. There are no toilets en route.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, we reached Trolltunga. The iconic rock formation jutted out over the Ringedalsvatnet lake, offering a view that was simply breathtaking. Despite the cloudy weather, the vista was awe-inspiring, a testament to the raw beauty of nature. We joined the queue of hikers waiting to take their photos on the edge of the rock, patiently biding our time. When our turn finally came, we carefully made our way to the edge, taking in the dizzying drop below. Zofia was a bit apprehensive at first, but with our encouragement, she bravely posed for a few photos, a memory that she will undoubtedly cherish for years to come.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Trolltunga, Norway's iconic mountain peak with stunning views and thrilling hiking trails.

After spending some time soaking in the views and capturing the moment, we began our descent. The hike back was just as challenging as the ascent, but we were buoyed by the sense of accomplishment and the stunning scenery that surrounded us. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape, we finally reached the trailhead, exhausted but exhilarated.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we decided to treat ourselves to a well-deserved dinner at KOMPAEN - Bistro og Deli in Lofthus. The bistro's cozy atmosphere and delicious food were the perfect way to end our day. We enjoyed some tasty fish & chips, burgers and salads. Zofia, of course, opted for ice cream, a sweet reward for her incredible performance on the hike. The pleasant staff welcomed visitors all year round.


Experience authentic Norwegian flavors at KOMPAEN - Bistro og Deli in Lofthus, where every meal is crafted with care and local ingredients.

As we sat there, savoring our meal and reflecting on the day's adventures, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Hardangervidda National Park had truly exceeded our expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, physical challenge, and unforgettable memories. We concluded our day with a visit to Lofthus Ekspedisjon for a nightcap. The establishment prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients. The welcoming staff are always eager to share their knowledge about the drinks and dishes on offer, enhancing your overall experience.


Discover Lofthus Ekspedisjon, a unique brewpub offering craft beers, ciders, and pizzas in a stunning Norwegian setting.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Hardangervidda Nasjonalparksenter and the Skaupsjøen/Hardangerjøkulen landskapsvernområde, continuing our exploration of this magnificent region. I'm also looking forward to visiting the Norsk Natursenter Hardanger to learn more about the local flora and fauna. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in Hardangervidda National Park.

I am also reminded that I forgot to pack a portable solar charger and insect repellent. I will need to remember to purchase these tomorrow.

I can't wait for tomorrow!