Exploring the Wild Beauty of Hardangervidda National Park

Discovering Hardangervidda's Majesty

After months of planning and anticipation, our family adventure in Hardangervidda National Park has finally begun! The drive from Potsdam was long but filled with excitement. As we crossed into Norway, the landscape transformed, and the air grew crisper, signaling the start of our wilderness retreat. Today was all about embracing the journey, soaking in the views from the Scenic Route Hardangervidda, and marveling at the cascading waters of Nykkjesøyfossen. Zofia was practically bouncing in her seat, eager to explore every nook and cranny of this natural wonderland.


Explore the breathtaking Scenic Route Hardangervidda, where stunning vistas, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage converge in Norway's natural wonder.

Our day started early as we grabbed breakfast at Halne Fjellstugu. The cozy atmosphere was just what we needed after our long drive. Katarzyna and I enjoyed strong coffee while Zofia devoured her pancakes, all while gazing out at the stunning mountain views. The staff were incredibly welcoming, and we felt instantly at home. It was the perfect start to our Hardangervidda adventure.


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

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off along the Scenic Route Hardangervidda. This 67-kilometer stretch of road between Haugastøl and Eidfjord is a photographer's dream. The landscape was a tapestry of snow-capped peaks, vast plateaus, and glistening lakes. We stopped frequently to capture the panoramic views and let Zofia stretch her legs. The fresh air and open spaces were a welcome change from city life. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family.

The drive itself was an experience. The road wound its way through the heart of the national park, offering ever-changing vistas at every turn. We passed by Halne Fjellstugu, known for its rich history related to reindeer hunting. I made a mental note to learn more about that later. The weather in May is quite mild, with clear skies, but the air was still crisp. I made sure to pack warm clothes, as recommended. I was glad I did because the temperature was around 3°C.

The journey, not the destination, matters...

Around midday, we stopped for lunch at Hardangerviddahallen. This restaurant is known for its authentic Norwegian cuisine and its use of local ingredients. We enjoyed a hearty meal of traditional dishes, including reindeer stew and fresh mountain trout. Zofia was particularly fond of the reindeer meatballs, and Katarzyna and I appreciated the warm, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is conveniently located next to the Hardangervidda National Park Center, which we planned to visit later.


Discover authentic Norwegian cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Hardangerviddahallen in Øvre Eidfjord.

After lunch, we visited the Hardangervidda National Park Center. The interactive exhibits provided a fascinating insight into the park's unique ecosystem and its diverse flora and fauna. Zofia was particularly captivated by the displays on wild reindeer, learning about their migration patterns and the challenges they face. I found the exhibits on the park's geological history particularly interesting, tracing the origins of the landscape back millions of years. It was a great way to deepen our understanding of the natural wonders surrounding us.


Explore the natural wonders at Hardangervidda National Park Center, your gateway to Norway's breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Our next stop was Nykkjesøyfossen waterfall, one of the highlights of our day. The drive to the trailhead was an adventure in itself, with narrow, winding roads leading us deeper into the Husedalen Valley. We parked the car and embarked on a short hike to the waterfall, the sound of rushing water growing louder with each step. The trail was easy to navigate, even for Zofia, and the surrounding scenery was simply breathtaking.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Nykkjesøyfossen Waterfall in Kinsarvik, Norway, a serene escape into nature's wonders.

As we rounded a bend, the waterfall came into view, and we were immediately awestruck. Nykkjesøyfossen is a powerful cascade of water, plunging down from a height of 60 meters. The mist from the falls created a rainbow in the air, adding to the magical atmosphere. We spent a long time simply gazing at the spectacle, feeling the cool spray on our faces and listening to the thunderous roar of the water. It was a truly unforgettable experience.

The Husedalen Valley is known as the Valley of Waterfalls, and for good reason. The hike to Nykkjesøyfossen is part of a trail that leads past four stunning waterfalls: Tveitafossen, Nyastølfossen, Nykkjesøyfossen, and Søtefossen. We didn't have time to see all of them today, but we made a mental note to return and explore the rest of the valley.

As the day drew to a close, we drove to Dyranut Fjellstova, where we had dinner. This mountain lodge is a popular starting point for hikes on the Hardangervidda plateau. The food was hearty and delicious, perfect after a day of exploring. We enjoyed a traditional Norwegian meal, savoring the flavors of the local cuisine. Zofia was exhausted but happy, recounting her favorite moments from the day.


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

After dinner, we settled into our campsite, nestled amidst the serene landscape. The air was crisp and clean, and the stars twinkled above us. We sat around a crackling campfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. As I looked at my family, their faces illuminated by the firelight, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. This trip was already exceeding my expectations, and I knew that the days to come would be filled with even more adventure and wonder.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning to visit Vøringsfossen, Norway's best-known waterfall, and the Trolltunga rock formation. I've heard that Vøringsfossen is an impressive sight, with water thundering down 182 meters. Trolltunga, on the other hand, is a challenging hike, but the views from the top are said to be unparalleled. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, and I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences.

Despite forgetting our portable solar charger and insect repellent, today was a resounding success. We learned so much about the natural beauty of Hardangervidda, and we created memories that will last a lifetime. As we drift off to sleep, I can't help but feel excited about the adventures that await us tomorrow. Hardangervidda, you have already captured our hearts.

I'm eager to see what tomorrow brings, especially our visit to Vøringsfossen and the challenging hike to Trolltunga. I'm sure Zofia will be thrilled by the sheer power of the waterfall, and I'm personally looking forward to the panoramic views from Trolltunga, even if the hike is a bit demanding. Katarzyna is already researching the best spots to capture the perfect photo, so I know we'll have plenty of memories to take back home. We also plan to check out Lofthus Ekspedisjon for a relaxing evening.

The blend of stunning landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the simple joy of spending time together as a family makes this trip truly special. As we continue our journey, I'm committed to sharing our experiences, offering practical tips, and hopefully inspiring others to embark on their own sustainable and culturally immersive adventures. After all, travel is not just about seeing new places; it's about creating lasting memories and fostering a deeper connection with the world around us.

The weather forecast for tomorrow looks promising, with clear skies and mild temperatures expected. This is perfect for our planned outdoor activities. I've already checked the trail conditions for Trolltunga, and it seems like we'll need to be prepared for some rocky terrain. But with the right gear and a positive attitude, I'm confident that we'll have an amazing day.

As I reflect on our first day in Hardangervidda, I'm struck by the sheer beauty and tranquility of this place. It's a world away from the hustle and bustle of Potsdam, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to disconnect from our daily routines and reconnect with nature. The vastness of the landscape, the sound of the rushing waterfalls, and the crisp mountain air have a way of putting things into perspective. It reminds me of the importance of slowing down, appreciating the simple things, and cherishing the moments we have with our loved ones.

And now, as the campfire embers fade and the stars shine brighter, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of exploration. Hardangervidda, we're ready for you!