Family Adventure in Jotunheimen: Exploring Norway's Natural Wonders

Above the Clouds: Valdresflye and Sognefjellet

Today was a day of unbelievable views and winding roads as we explored two of Norway's most famous scenic routes: Valdresflye and Sognefjellet. The family and I packed into our trusty electric vehicle, ready to soak in the natural beauty of Jotunheimen National Park. Even though I had forgotten the portable phone charger, the views were so captivating that I didn't even miss the constant updates from the digital world.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Jotunheimen Fjellstue. The atmosphere was cozy, and the traditional Norwegian fare gave us the perfect start for a day of exploration. Zofia was particularly excited about the waffles, and Katarzyna enjoyed the strong, dark coffee. Fuelled up, we set off towards Valdresflye.

NASJONAL TURISTVEG Valdresflye - SCENIC ROUTE Valdresflye

The drive along Valdresflye was nothing short of spectacular. The landscape opened up before us, revealing vast expanses of untouched wilderness. The road itself is a marvel, seemingly floating above the treeline, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as we drove, the air crisp and clean, the sky a brilliant blue.


Explore the breathtaking Valdresflye Scenic Route, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await in the heart of Norway.
We made several stops along the way to take photos and simply absorb the scenery. One particular spot that caught our attention was Vargbakkane, a designated rest area offering incredible views of the 2000-meter summits, including Knutshøe and the iconic Besseggen ridge. Zofia was fascinated by the telescope, trying to spot tiny hikers making their way across the landscape.

The journey, not the destination, is the reward.

As we continued our drive, we reached Flye 1389, the highest point on the road at 1,389 meters above sea level. Here, the vistas were truly circular, offering an unparalleled perspective of the plateau and the distant peaks. I felt a deep connection to nature, a sense of being part of something much larger than myself. Even Katarzyna, who usually prefers cityscapes, was completely taken by the raw beauty of Valdresflye.

For lunch, we stopped at Lodge 900 in Beitostølen. The place was bustling with activity, and we managed to snag a table on the roof terrace. The views were fantastic, and the pizza from the stone oven was a welcome treat. Zofia enjoyed her pasta, and Katarzyna and I shared a local craft beer. I must admit, the service was a bit slow, but the overall experience was enjoyable.

Sognefjellet Viewing Point

After lunch, we continued our journey towards Sognefjellet, the highest mountain pass in Northern Europe. The drive was equally stunning, with winding roads that climbed steadily towards the summit. The landscape transformed from open plateau to rugged, rocky terrain, with snow-capped peaks looming in the distance.

One of the highlights of Sognefjellet was the Sognefjellet Viewing Point. From here, we had an unobstructed view of Jotunheimen National Park, with its glaciers and towering mountains. The air was thin and crisp, and the silence was broken only by the occasional cry of a bird.


Experience breathtaking views at the Sognefjellet Viewing Point, an alpine gem in Norway offering stunning landscapes and unforgettable memories.
We also stopped at Vegaskjelet, another viewpoint along Sognefjellet. This unique platform offered a different perspective, with views of the 2,000-meter peaks of Skarsnebb and Steinetind, as well as the valley of Leirdalen. The architecture of the viewpoint itself was impressive, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

As we descended from Sognefjellet, the landscape gradually softened, and we found ourselves surrounded by lush green valleys and sparkling blue fjords. The contrast was striking, a reminder of the incredible diversity of Norway's natural beauty.

For dinner, we decided to try Sjodalstugu, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Norwegian cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food was delicious. I particularly enjoyed the reindeer stew, while Katarzyna raved about the fresh fish. Zofia, of course, opted for the cinnamon rolls, which were a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover the authentic flavors of Norway at Sjodalstugu in Tessanden – where culinary artistry meets warm hospitality amidst breathtaking scenery.
After dinner, we briefly considered stopping by Fjora Pub for a nightcap, but we were all exhausted from our day of driving and hiking. Instead, we headed back to our campsite, where we settled in for a well-deserved rest.


Experience the heart of Sogndal's nightlife at Fjora Pub, where local culture meets a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Tomorrow, we plan to explore Dumdalen Grotten and Jostedalsbreen National Park. I'm particularly excited about visiting Jostedalsbreen, as I've always been fascinated by glaciers. I’m sure it will be another unforgettable day in Jotunheimen.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. The beauty of Valdresflye and Sognefjellet is something that will stay with us forever, a reminder of the power and majesty of nature. And while I did miss the portable phone charger, the memories we created today are far more valuable than any digital connection.

I'm also reminded of the importance of sustainable travel. As we drove through these pristine landscapes, I was struck by the need to protect them for future generations. We made sure to leave no trace, packing out all our trash and respecting the natural environment. It's a small gesture, but one that I believe is essential for preserving the beauty of places like Jotunheimen.

As we prepare for another day of exploration, I am filled with anticipation for what tomorrow will bring. Dumdalen Grotten and Jostedalsbreen National Park await, and I am eager to discover their secrets and share them with you.

Until then, happy travels!

Final Thoughts

Today was a testament to the power of nature to inspire and rejuvenate. The scenic routes of Valdresflye and Sognefjellet offered breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences, reminding us of the importance of sustainable travel and the beauty of simplicity. As we continue our journey through Jotunheimen, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share these moments with my family and with you, my readers.

Looking ahead, I am excited about tomorrow's adventures at Dumdalen Grotten and Jostedalsbreen National Park. I have a feeling that even more incredible sights and memories are in store for us. Stay tuned for the next installment of our family adventure in Norway!

And remember, sometimes the best adventures are the ones that take you off the beaten path, away from the distractions of modern life, and into the heart of nature. As I always say, exploring new places with family creates memories that last a lifetime.

So, pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and embark on your own adventure. The world is waiting to be discovered, one scenic route at a time.

Safe travels!

And remember to charge your portable phone charger!