Family Adventure in Jotunheimen: Exploring Norway's Natural Wonders

Farewell, Jotunheimen!

Today marked the end of our incredible week-long adventure in Jotunheimen National Park. It’s hard to believe how quickly the time flew by! From stunning hikes to cozy campsites, this trip has been a fantastic blend of nature, culture, and family bonding. Today, we set out to explore some unique attractions and savor the local flavors one last time before our long drive back to Potsdam tomorrow.
Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Aasgaard stogo in Beitostølen. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air as we settled into a cozy corner. Zofia was particularly excited about the waffles, and Katarzyna enjoyed a traditional Norwegian pastry. I opted for a simple yet satisfying plate of eggs and bacon, fueling up for the day's adventures. It’s amazing how a good breakfast can set the tone for a day filled with exploration.


Discover authentic Norwegian cuisine at Aasgaard Stogo in Beitostølen, where local flavors meet stunning landscapes for an unforgettable dining experience.
After breakfast, we packed up our camping gear and began our drive towards Klimapark 2469. The drive itself was a treat, with panoramic views of the mountains and valleys. As an automotive mechatronics technician, I always appreciate a smooth drive, and our electric vehicle handled the winding roads with ease. I couldn’t help but think about the progress in electric vehicle technology and how it allows us to explore these beautiful places more sustainably.

Exploring Klimapark 2469

Klimapark 2469 was an experience like no other. Located at the foot of Galdhøpiggen, the highest mountain in Norway, the park offers a unique glimpse into the past and the present of our climate. The air was crisp and cool as we approached the entrance, a stark contrast to the warmer temperatures we’ve been experiencing in Potsdam.


Explore Klimapark 2469, a captivating museum showcasing glaciers' beauty and significance in the heart of Norway's stunning landscape.
We joined a guided tour that took us along a 1000-meter walkway across Juvflye. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing insights about the climate, history, geology, and biology of this high-mountain area. Zofia was fascinated by the information about the animals and plants that have adapted to life in such a harsh environment. I found myself particularly interested in the discussions about climate change and the impact it’s having on the region. Seeing the effects firsthand made the issue feel even more real and urgent.

The highlight of Klimapark 2469 was undoubtedly the ice tunnel in Juvfonne. Carved into the ice patch, the tunnel featured a network of corridors and rooms, complete with ice sculptures and even a cinema! Walking through the tunnel felt like stepping back in time, 7000 years to be exact. The ice was incredibly clear, and the sculptures were fascinating. Zofia was mesmerized by the stories of artifacts surfacing from the melting ice, remnants of a time long past. The tunnel was a chilly -3 degrees Celsius, so we were grateful for our warm clothing and hiking boots. I was glad I remembered to pack those, especially after almost forgetting them!

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Leaving the ice tunnel, we took a moment to visit the vantage point with views of the Kjelbreen glacier. The sight was breathtaking, a vast expanse of ice stretching out before us. It was a poignant reminder of the beauty and fragility of our planet. As a family, we’re committed to sustainable living, and this experience reinforced our determination to do our part in protecting these natural wonders for future generations.

Art Meets Nature: The Hand at Skjolden

After our chilly adventure at Klimapark 2469, we decided to head towards Skjolden to see The Hand, a unique sculpture that I had read about before our trip. The drive was scenic, taking us through winding roads and alongside stunning fjords.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of The Hand in Skjolden, Norway, a top tourist attraction for nature lovers and adventurers.
Located in Skjolden, The Hand is a remarkable tourist attraction known for its stunning natural landscapes and artistic flair. The sculpture itself resembles a giant hand reaching out towards the sky, symbolizing the connection between humanity and nature. As we approached, we were greeted by panoramic views of lush valleys and sparkling waters. The setting was perfect for photography, and Katarzyna, with her keen eye for detail, captured some stunning shots.

The Hand invited reflection on the beauty of the surrounding fjords and mountains. Zofia enjoyed climbing around the base of the sculpture, while Katarzyna and I took in the serene atmosphere. The tranquil environment allowed us to truly appreciate the magnificence of the Norwegian landscape. It’s moments like these that make our family trips so special, a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with each other and nature.

A Taste of Lom: Local Flavors and Brews

With our adventures drawing to a close, we made our way to Lom for a late lunch and some last-minute souvenir shopping. Lom is a charming village, known for its traditional architecture and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

For lunch, we decided on Steaks & Bones - Huset, a restaurant known for its American-style grilled dishes. After a week of traditional Norwegian food, we were all craving something a bit different. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I ordered a juicy steak, cooked to perfection, while Katarzyna opted for spare ribs. Zofia, of course, went for a classic burger. The food was delicious and satisfying, a perfect way to refuel after a day of exploring.


Experience mouthwatering steaks and warm hospitality at Steaks & Bones - Huset in Beitostølen – perfect for food lovers and adventure seekers alike.
After lunch, we strolled through the streets of Lom, soaking in the local atmosphere. We stopped at Smak i Lom, a local food shop where we found a variety of small-scale, handmade Norwegian foods. The shop was a treasure trove of local delicacies, from cured meat and cheese to beer, fruit, vegetables, chocolate, and ice cream. We picked up some local cheese and cured meats to take back home, a taste of Norway to savor long after our trip is over. I even found some locally brewed beer from Lom bryggeri, a perfect way to end our evenings back in Potsdam.


Experience the best of Norwegian local produce and artisanal delights at Smak i Lom, a charming farmers' market and café in Fossbergom.

Dinner at Banken Bryggeri & Spiseri

For our final dinner in Jotunheimen, we chose Banken Bryggeri & Spiseri in Heidal, a gastropub with its own brewery. The restaurant is located in an old bank, transformed into a cozy and intimate space.


Discover the flavors of Norway at Banken Bryggeri & Spiseri in Bjølstadmo – where local cuisine meets scenic beauty.
The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the menu featured simple, tasty dishes made with high-quality ingredients. I appreciated the focus on local produce, a testament to the region’s commitment to sustainability. Katarzyna and I enjoyed the local beer, brewed in the basement of the bank. It was a unique experience, savoring the flavors of Norway in such a historic setting. Zofia enjoyed her meal as well, and the friendly staff made us feel right at home.

As we savored our final meal, we reminisced about the incredible experiences we’ve had this past week. From hiking to glaciers to exploring charming villages, Jotunheimen National Park has exceeded all our expectations. It’s a place of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share this adventure with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we begin our long drive back to Potsdam. While I’m looking forward to returning to the comforts of home, I’ll always cherish the memories we made in Jotunheimen. This trip has reinforced our commitment to sustainable travel and our love for exploring the natural wonders of the world. Until next time, Norway!

Looking back on this trip, I realize how much I value these moments with my family. As an automotive mechatronics technician, I spend a lot of time focused on the technical aspects of my job. But these trips remind me of the importance of disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with nature and with each other. And as we prepare to head back to our daily routines, I know that we’ll carry the spirit of Jotunheimen with us, a reminder of the beauty and simplicity that can be found in the natural world.