Family Adventure in Jotunheimen: Exploring Norway's Natural Wonders

Chasing Glaciers and Exploring Caves

Today was all about contrasts – from the serene darkness of ancient caves to the dazzling brightness of glacial landscapes. Jotunheimen never ceases to amaze, and I’m thrilled to share our adventures from day five of our family trip. Grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into the heart of Norway's natural wonders!

Our day began at Andre Etasje in Vågå, where we enjoyed a hearty breakfast. It's a cozy spot, known as Gudbrandsdalen's most popular restaurant, and it set the perfect tone for our adventurous day. Zofia was particularly excited, bouncing in her seat as she anticipated the day’s explorations. After breakfast, we packed our backpacks, double-checking that we had everything we needed, including the portable phone charger I almost forgot! It's a lesson learned from past trips – staying connected is essential, especially when venturing into the wilderness.

Our first stop was the Dumdalen Grotten, a series of limestone caves formed during the last ice age. Nestled in Bøvertun, these caves are a bit of a hidden gem, and finding them was an adventure in itself. Following Route 55 from Lom, we navigated towards Bøvertun, using the coordinates to pinpoint the location. The drive was scenic, with lush greenery and serene rivers creating a tranquil atmosphere. We parked nearby and prepared for a moderate hike to the cave entrance. The hike itself was enjoyable, with well-marked trails that wind through the picturesque landscape. I made sure to inform Katarzyna of our hiking plans, just to be safe.

As we approached the Dumdalen Grotten, the air turned noticeably cooler. The entrance to the cave was unassuming, almost hidden by the surrounding foliage. Stepping inside, we were immediately enveloped in darkness, a stark contrast to the bright Norwegian sun outside. The temperature dropped significantly, and we were grateful for the warm layers we had packed. Zofia's eyes widened as she took in the surroundings. The cool, crisp air was refreshing, and the silence was broken only by the sound of dripping water. Exploring the winding passages and expansive chambers, we were captivated by the natural artistry carved by the elements over thousands of years. The rock formations were stunning, with intricate stalactites and stalagmites creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Dumdalen Grotten, a stunning natural attraction in Bøvertun, Norway, featuring mesmerizing cave formations and serene landscapes.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

The caves are said to be around 10,000 years old, formed by the river Dumma carving through the limestone bedrock. As we ventured deeper, we encountered narrow passages and larger chambers, each with its unique geological features. Zofia was fascinated by the sparkling formations, asking endless questions about how they were formed. I did my best to explain the science behind it, drawing on my interest in geology and the natural processes that shape our world.

After exploring the Dumdalen Grotten, we emerged blinking into the sunlight, our senses heightened by the experience. It was time for lunch, and we drove to Lemonsjøen Fjellstue & Hyttegrend, a charming mountain lodge known for its traditional Norwegian cuisine. The drive was beautiful, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. At Lemonsjøen Fjellstue, we enjoyed a delicious meal with a view. Katarzyna and I opted for traditional Norwegian dishes, while Zofia happily devoured a plate of *medisterkaker* (Norwegian meatballs) from the children's menu. I appreciate that they focus on local and Norwegian ingredients, like fresh mountain trout from Vågå. This is exactly the kind of place I love to support, as they’re passionate about the origin and production of their ingredients.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off for our next destination: Jostedalsbreen National Park. As the largest glacier on the European mainland, Jostedalsbreen is a sight to behold. The drive to the park was stunning, with dramatic landscapes unfolding around every bend. We parked at the visitor center and took a moment to gather our gear and plan our route. The park offers numerous activities, from glacier hikes to kayaking, but we opted for a family-friendly hike to get a closer look at the glacier.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Jostedalsbreen National Park, home to Europe's largest glacier and stunning natural landscapes, perfect for outdoor adventures.

The hike was relatively easy, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. As we walked, we marveled at the sheer scale of the glacier, a vast expanse of ice stretching as far as the eye could see. The blue ice sparkled in the sunlight, and the air was crisp and clean. We learned about the glacier’s formation, its impact on the surrounding landscape, and the importance of preserving this natural wonder. Zofia was particularly interested in the blue ice, asking why it looked different from regular ice. I explained that the blue color is due to the density of the ice, which absorbs all other colors of the spectrum except blue.

One of the highlights of our visit was hiking in the Bøyadalen Valley, which offered impressive views of the Bøyabreen Glacier. The hike was simple and suitable for families, and the surroundings offered spectacular landscapes. We also explored the lush deciduous forest of western Norway by walking to Andersbenken, also known as “Anders' bench.” From this point, we enjoyed a unique and spectacular view of the glacier, making this hike an unforgettable experience.

After our hike, we decided to stop by Skogstad Lom to pick up a few essentials. We’d forgotten to pack sunscreen, and with the intense sunlight reflecting off the glacier, we knew we needed to protect our skin. The shop offered a wide range of outdoor clothing and equipment, and we quickly found what we needed. I was impressed by their focus on sustainability, using recycled materials and minimizing waste. It’s great to see businesses taking responsibility for their environmental impact.


Explore Skogstad Lom for top-notch sportswear and gear, perfect for your Norwegian outdoor adventures and more.

Our final stop of the day was Brimi Sæter, a traditional mountain farm known for its unique dining experience. The restaurant is renowned for its four-course signature menu, “Skråpå-tå,” where guests gather around handcrafted tabletop grills to enjoy a rich and immersive meal. Although we were tempted to try the full menu, we opted for a lighter meal, as we were still full from lunch. We enjoyed some local cheese and cured meats, savoring the flavors of the region. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and we felt like we were stepping back in time.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine and rustic charm at Brimi Sæter - your ultimate getaway in Norway's breathtaking countryside.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our adventures. From the depths of the Dumdalen Grotten to the heights of Jostedalsbreen National Park, we had experienced the best of Jotunheimen’s natural wonders. Zofia was exhausted but content, her head filled with memories of caves and glaciers. Katarzyna and I were equally thrilled, grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with our daughter.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Jotunheimvegen and Steinplassen. I'm particularly excited about Jotunheimvegen, as it's known for its scenic views and challenging terrain. I'm eager to test the electric car on those steep inclines and winding roads. We'll also be stopping at Pøbben for a drink – something I’m very much looking forward to after a long day of driving.

As I sit here writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful country with my family. Norway has a way of captivating the soul, and I know that these memories will stay with us for a lifetime. Until tomorrow, *ha det bra*!