Family Adventure in Jotunheimen: Exploring Norway's Natural Wonders

A Day Amongst Giants

Today was all about embracing the heart of Norway’s natural beauty. From winding mountain roads to cultural landmarks and cozy eateries, we soaked in every moment of our Jotunheimen adventure. It was a day that reminded us why we chose this destination for our family trip – a perfect blend of stunning landscapes and authentic experiences.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Halne Fjellstugu. Waking up to the crisp mountain air and the promise of a day filled with exploration, I felt a familiar surge of excitement. The family was equally eager, especially Zofia, who couldn't wait to see more of the stunning Norwegian landscapes. Halne Fjellstugu was a cozy haven, and the breakfast buffet was just what we needed to fuel our adventures. They offered a delightful spread of continental options, and we enjoyed some traditional Norwegian fare as well. Katarzyna particularly enjoyed the freshly baked bread, while Zofia made a beeline for the waffles. I appreciated the strong coffee, which prepared me for the day of driving and sightseeing ahead.


Discover traditional Norwegian flavors in a stunning setting at Halne Fjellstugu – where culinary delight meets breathtaking nature.

After breakfast, we packed up our trusty electric vehicle and set off to experience Jotunheimvegen, a scenic toll road winding through the heart of Jotunheimen National Park. The drive was nothing short of spectacular. The road, a mix of gravel and well-maintained stretches, offered panoramic views of large lakes and majestic mountain peaks. It was easy to see why this route is considered one of Norway's best-kept secrets. The air was clean and fresh, and the views were simply breathtaking. I even spotted a few cyclists braving the hills, their faces determined as they pedaled through the stunning landscape. The road wound its way through open mountain terrain, making it easily accessible and enjoyable for our family. We made several stops along the way to capture the scenery and let Zofia stretch her legs. She was particularly thrilled to see herds of reindeer grazing in the distance, pointing and chattering excitedly about the wildlife.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Jotunheimvegen, a must-visit scenic route in Norway's stunning Jotunheimen National Park.

Sometimes, the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn't plan to take.

Our next stop was Steinplassen, a monument and vista point offering a unique opportunity to delve into the region's history and culture. The monument, a peculiar yet thought-provoking sculpture called Rock on Top of Another Rock, immediately caught our attention. Created by Swiss artists Peter Fischli and David Weiss, it features a massive rock carefully balanced on another, prompting us to question whether it was a natural formation or a man-made installation. It was a fascinating blend of art and nature, and it sparked a lively discussion among us about the role of humans in shaping the landscape. Beyond the monument, Steinplassen offered breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. We spent a good amount of time simply soaking in the scenery, appreciating the tranquility and beauty of the Norwegian wilderness. Zofia enjoyed clambering on some of the smaller rocks, pretending to be a mountain explorer. It was a perfect spot for a family photo, capturing the essence of our Jotunheimen adventure.


Experience the breathtaking views at Steinplassen, a stunning vista point on Valdresflye, showcasing Norway's majestic landscapes.

As lunchtime approached, we made our way to Skeid Kro in Skjåk, a restaurant known for its traditional Norwegian cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, rustic atmosphere. We were greeted by friendly staff who made us feel right at home. Skeid Kro prides itself on using local ingredients and preserving the unique food traditions of the Skjåk region. We decided to try some of their specialties, including perfectly cooked trout, karbonade (Norwegian meatballs), and fish and chips. The portions were generous, and the flavors were rich and satisfying. Katarzyna particularly enjoyed the karbonade, while Zofia devoured the fish and chips with gusto. I appreciated the opportunity to taste authentic Norwegian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. It was a true culinary experience that gave us a deeper appreciation for the region's culture and heritage.


Discover authentic Norwegian cuisine at Skeid Kro in Skjåk – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we continued our exploration of Jotunheimen. In the late afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of local culture and stopped by Pøbben in Lom, a cozy pub known for its casual atmosphere and wide selection of beverages. Finding it proved a bit tricky, as the online presence isn't very up to date, but we eventually found it tucked away on Eggjavegen. Though I was tempted by the local brews, I opted for a non-alcoholic alternative, while Katarzyna enjoyed a glass of wine. Zofia was delighted to find they had a selection of juices, and she happily sipped on apple juice while we relaxed and soaked in the ambiance. The pub had a friendly vibe, and we chatted with some of the locals, learning more about the area and its history. It was a perfect way to unwind after a day of driving and sightseeing.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pøbben, Fossbergom's premier pub for craft beers, local spirits, and unforgettable nights out.

For dinner, we chose SmakeMeir in Lom, drawn in by its reputation for providing a tasteful meal in a cozy atmosphere. The restaurant was located in a brand-new building at ViteMeir, offering both indoor and outdoor seating options. We opted to sit outside under the covered terrace, enjoying the fresh air and pleasant surroundings. SmakeMeir offered a diverse menu, with something to please everyone's palate. I decided to try their local specialty, while Katarzyna opted for a vegetarian dish, and Zofia chose a familiar favorite. The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable. It was a perfect end to a perfect day, leaving us feeling satisfied and content.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at SmakeMeir in Kaupanger – where local flavors meet cozy ambiance.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our adventures and the incredible experiences we had shared. Driving through Jotunheimvegen, exploring Steinplassen, savoring local cuisine at Skeid Kro and SmakeMeir, and unwinding at Pøbben – it was a day that perfectly captured the essence of our family adventure in Jotunheimen. The majestic landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality had left an indelible mark on our hearts.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, our final day in Jotunheimen, we are excited to visit Klimapark 2469 and The Hand. We plan to start with breakfast at Aasgaard stogo, followed by lunch at Steaks & Bones - Huset, and a final dinner at Banken Bryggeri & Spiseri / Weistad Overnatting. We also hope to do some souvenir shopping at Smak i Lom before we begin our journey back to Potsdam. It’s hard to believe our trip is almost over, but we are determined to make the most of our last day, creating even more unforgettable memories as a family.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such incredible destinations with my family. Jotunheimen has exceeded all our expectations, and I know that we will cherish these memories for years to come. It's a reminder that the best adventures are often the ones that take us off the beaten path, immersing us in the beauty of nature and the richness of local culture. And as we prepare for our final day, I am filled with anticipation for what tomorrow will bring, knowing that even as our journey comes to an end, the memories we've made will last a lifetime.