Exploring the Wild Beauty of Hardangervidda National Park

A Final Glimpse of Norwegian Majesty

As our week-long adventure in Hardangervidda National Park drew to a close, I found myself filled with a mix of emotions: gratitude for the incredible experiences we shared and a touch of sadness at the thought of leaving this breathtaking landscape behind. Today was all about soaking in those final moments, capturing the essence of Norway's natural beauty before heading back to Germany.

Our last day began with a hearty breakfast at Halne Fjellstugu. The morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. Inside, the stugu was warm and inviting. We enjoyed a buffet breakfast with continental options. Zofia was particularly excited about the waffles, while Katarzyna enjoyed the selection of local cheeses. I appreciated the strong coffee, which helped shake off the last vestiges of sleep as we prepared for our final day of exploration. I overheard other guests commenting on the fantastic location, the beautiful views, and the cozy atmosphere.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Halne Fjellstugu while soaking in breathtaking views of Vøringsfoss's stunning landscapes.

After breakfast, we packed up our camping gear, a task made easier by the fact that we’d become quite efficient at it over the past week. There was a certain rhythm to it now, a silent understanding between us as we worked together to dismantle our temporary home. As I secured the last strap on our luggage carrier, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. We had successfully navigated the wilderness, embraced the unpredictable weather, and created memories that would last a lifetime. It reminded me of our family trips to the Polish coast when I was a child, where resourcefulness and teamwork were essential skills.

Our first stop of the day was Vøringsfoss parkering (tur til juvet), where we embarked on a tur til juvet, a hike to the gorge. The drive there was scenic, winding through valleys and alongside rivers that sparkled in the morning sun. As we approached Vøringsfossen, the roar of the waterfall grew louder, building anticipation. The parking area was well-maintained, and we easily found a spot. From there, we followed the marked trail, which led us closer and closer to the edge of the gorge. The views were simply stunning. The waterfall plunged dramatically into the Måbø Valley below, creating a misty spray that kissed our faces. Zofia was mesmerized by the sheer power of the water, her eyes wide with wonder. I made sure she kept a safe distance from the edge, my protective instincts kicking in. We spent a good hour there, taking photos and simply marveling at the natural spectacle.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Vøringsfoss, one of Norway's most stunning waterfalls, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural history.

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

Next on our itinerary was the Hardanger Bridge Viewpoint. The drive from Vøringsfossen took us through more of Hardangervidda's stunning landscapes. As we approached the bridge, its immense size became apparent. It's one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, a true feat of engineering. We parked at the viewpoint and took a moment to admire the structure against the backdrop of the Hardangerfjord. The bridge seemed to stretch on forever, connecting the municipalities of Ullensvang and Ulvik. We walked along the pedestrian lane, feeling the wind in our hair and the vibrations of the cars passing by. The views from the bridge were breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the fjord, the mountains, and the surrounding valleys. Zofia was fascinated by the cables and towers, asking endless questions about how the bridge was built. I did my best to explain the principles of suspension bridges, drawing on my knowledge of engineering and mechanics. It was a great opportunity to turn our travel experience into a learning moment, something I always strive to do.


Discover the stunning vistas of Hardanger Bridge at the viewpoint, where nature meets engineering marvels in breathtaking Norway.

For lunch, we stopped at Dyranut Fjellstova, a charming mountain lodge known for its traditional Norwegian cuisine. The stova was cozy and inviting, with a rustic interior and a warm fireplace. We ordered reindeer meatballs and a mountain burger. The food was delicious, hearty, and satisfying after a morning of hiking and sightseeing. Katarzyna enjoyed a cup of herbal tea, while Zofia opted for a glass of juice. I savored a local beer, its crisp taste perfectly complementing the meal. We chatted with the friendly staff, learning about the history of the lodge and the surrounding area. It felt like a true cultural immersion, a chance to connect with the local community and experience their way of life. I recalled similar experiences from my travels through Poland, where the warmth and hospitality of the locals always left a lasting impression.


Experience authentic Norwegian hospitality at Dyranut Fjellstova - where traditional cuisine meets stunning natural beauty in Eidfjord.

After lunch, we made a stop at the Gift Shop Norsk Natursenter. I always appreciate a good gift shop, especially one that offers unique and locally made products. This shop did not disappoint. It was filled with an array of Norwegian crafts, souvenirs, and educational materials. Zofia picked out a small troll figurine, while Katarzyna found a beautiful hand-knitted scarf. I purchased a book about the flora and fauna of Hardangervidda, hoping to learn more about the natural wonders we had encountered during our trip. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, providing insights into the local area and the stories behind the products. It was a perfect way to end our day of sightseeing, a chance to take a piece of Norway home with us. I remember visiting similar shops with my parents in Poland, searching for the perfect memento to commemorate our family vacations.


Explore the Gift Shop Norsk Natursenter for unique local crafts, souvenirs, and educational materials celebrating Norway's natural beauty.

As evening approached, we began our drive towards our accommodation for the night, the Glacier Restaurant, Bar & Cafe. The drive was smooth, the roads well-maintained, and the scenery as stunning as ever. We decided to eat at the Glacier Restaurant, Bar & Cafe. The restaurant offered beautiful views. The restaurant had vegan options, which Katarzyna appreciated. I had the Molde Vegan which was yellow rice with vegetables in soya sauce. It was simple with average taste. Zofia enjoyed a simple pasta dish. The owner was friendly.


Discover Glacier Restaurant: A culinary gem in Odda offering diverse European and global dishes alongside vegan and gluten-free options.

Reflecting on our week in Hardangervidda, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and fulfillment. We embarked on this journey to connect with nature, create lasting memories, and teach Zofia the importance of sustainable living. I believe we have achieved all of those goals and more. We have hiked through breathtaking landscapes, marveled at majestic waterfalls, and immersed ourselves in Norwegian culture. We have learned about the flora and fauna of Hardangervidda, the history of the region, and the challenges of preserving its natural beauty. We have embraced the unpredictable weather, adapted to the challenges of camping, and grown closer as a family. As an automotive mechatronics technician, I often find myself immersed in the world of technology and machines. This trip has been a welcome reminder of the importance of disconnecting from the digital world and reconnecting with the natural world. It has reinforced my commitment to sustainable living and my desire to protect the environment for future generations.

Tomorrow, we begin our long drive back to Potsdam. While I am eager to return to the comforts of home, I know that a part of me will always remain in Hardangervidda. The memories we have created here will stay with us forever, a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the natural world, and the importance of family, adventure, and sustainable living. As we drive away, I will carry with me the lessons I have learned, the experiences I have shared, and the commitment to continue exploring the world with my family, one adventure at a time. This trip has not only enriched our lives but has also provided me with valuable content for my blog. I am excited to share our experiences with my readers, hoping to inspire them to embark on their own sustainable and culturally immersive adventures. Perhaps some of them will even be inspired to visit Hardangervidda, to experience the magic of this remarkable place for themselves. Until then, I will continue to share my stories, my insights, and my passion for travel, hoping to make a small difference in the world, one blog post at a time.

As I think about our next adventure, I am filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. The world is vast and full of wonders, and I am eager to explore as much of it as possible with my family. Whether it's cycling along the Havel River in Potsdam, attending local car shows, or hiking in the forests surrounding our home, I know that every journey, no matter how big or small, has the potential to enrich our lives and create lasting memories. And as long as we continue to embrace the spirit of adventure, to learn from our experiences, and to share our stories with the world, I believe we can make a positive impact, one journey at a time.