Solo Adventure in Norway's Rondane National Park

A Day of Discovery Along Rondane's Paths

Today was all about embracing the journey, letting the road guide me through the stunning landscapes and hidden gems of Rondane National Park. It's days like these that remind me why I traded my Toronto condo for a backpack and a plane ticket – the thrill of the unknown, the beauty of simplicity, and the quiet joy of discovering a new corner of the world.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Rondane Gjestegård. The traditional Norwegian fare was exactly what I needed to fuel up for a day of exploring. I savored every bite of the freshly baked bread and strong coffee, watching the early morning light paint the surrounding mountains in hues of gold and pink. It was a peaceful start, a moment of calm before setting off on the day's adventure. I find that these moments of solitude are particularly precious when traveling solo; they allow me to fully absorb the atmosphere and appreciate the details that might otherwise be missed. I remember similar quiet mornings in Sarnen, Switzerland, where I grew up, and how they instilled in me a lifelong love for nature's simple beauty.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set out to experience the Nasjonal Turistveg Rondane - SCENIC ROUTE - START/END, the scenic route that winds its way through the park. As I drove, I was struck by the sheer grandeur of the landscape. The mountains rose majestically on either side, their peaks still capped with snow, even in June. The valleys below were a patchwork of green meadows and shimmering lakes, reflecting the clear blue sky. I made several stops along the way, each offering a new perspective and a fresh appreciation for the natural beauty of Rondane. At one particularly stunning viewpoint, I could see for miles in every direction, the vastness of the park stretching out before me like an endless canvas. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the power and scale of nature. The Norwegian Scenic Route Rondane runs from Venabygdsfjellet to Folldal, and from Sollia Church to Enden, a total distance of 75 km. The road follows the eastern side of Rondane National Park and runs through cultural landscapes and the majestic mountain massif.


Discover the scenic beauty of the Rondane National Tourist Route, a journey through majestic mountains and stunning landscapes in Norway's first national park.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

One of the highlights of the day was a stop at Huset med det rare I, a charming little shop filled with quirky and unique finds. I spent a good hour browsing the shelves, marveling at the eclectic collection of local crafts, vintage treasures, and oddities from around the world. I ended up buying a hand-carved wooden reindeer, a perfect memento of my time in Rondane. The shop owner, a friendly woman with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye, shared stories about the history of the shop and the local area. It was these personal interactions that often make a trip truly memorable, offering a glimpse into the culture and spirit of a place. I remember similar experiences exploring the local markets in Toronto with David, always discovering hidden gems and connecting with the community.


Explore Huset med det rare I in Folldal, Norway for unique, handcrafted treasures and local artistry that capture the spirit of the region.

For lunch, I stopped at Parken Grill & Cafébar, a cozy spot with a lively atmosphere. I ordered a traditional Norwegian dish, savoring the flavors and aromas of the local cuisine. As I ate, I watched the locals and tourists mingle, sharing stories and laughter. It was a vibrant scene, a reminder of the universal appeal of good food and good company. I thought of Sophie and how much she would have loved the atmosphere, always eager to try new foods and make new friends. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes when I get back home, bringing a little piece of Norway back to our kitchen in Toronto.


Discover delicious dining at Parken Grill & Cafébar in Otta - where classic diner favorites meet modern culinary delights.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Rondane Fjellstue for dinner. The restaurant was nestled in the heart of the mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The food was exceptional, a celebration of local ingredients and traditional Norwegian cooking techniques. I enjoyed a delicious meal, reflecting on the day's adventures and savoring the peace and quiet of the mountains. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful place. The Rondane mountains range from 1,000 to 2,000 meters above sea level and summers are not generally very warm. Expect temperatures between 10 and 20°C.


Discover the natural beauty of Norway at Rondane Fjellstue—your perfect base for adventure in stunning Rondane National Park.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Rullesteinen and the River Intersection Point [Rondane National Park], venturing further into the heart of Rondane [National Park] and discovering more of its hidden treasures. I'm particularly excited about the prospect of hiking to new vantage points and witnessing the raw, untamed beauty of the Norwegian wilderness. I'm also looking forward to experiencing the local nightlife at Kolonialen Pub, immersing myself in the culture and connecting with the community. As I prepare for another day of adventure, I feel a sense of excitement and anticipation, eager to see what new experiences and discoveries await me in this enchanting corner of the world.

Rondane National Park was established in 1962 as the first national park in Norway , mainly to protect the more than 2000 wild reindeer which have their home here. Rondane is a park of contrasts, from barren high alpine peaks to gentle slopes with cozy mountain farms and spectacular waterfalls. It is packed with excellent hiking trails for all adventurers. Around the edge of the park are many lighter hikes suitable for all ages and abilities. In the heart of the park, 10 peaks reach over 2000m above sea level, with gentle slopes that are a little easier to hike than those in for example Jotunheimen National Park. Rondane has a relatively mild climate, making it one of the safer areas for avoiding hiking in pouring rain. Low precipitation means less snow in the winter and the hiking season will often start in early June, which can be a month earlier than other Norwegian mountain areas. September is probably the most beautiful time of the year when you can enjoy the golden autumn colours. There are no restrictions on where you can hike in the park, but when encountering wild reindeer, do remember they get easily disturbed by humans, so please stay on marked trails as much as possible. If you do happen upon some reindeer, slowly move away from them.

Rondane National Park is a hiker's paradise. There are over 500 kilometers (311 miles) of hiking trails in the park, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the most popular hikes include the Rondane Round, the Knutshøe Traverse, and the Snøhetta Hike. The Rondane Round is a 130-kilometer (81-mile) loop that takes you around the heart of the park. The hike is moderately challenging and offers stunning views of the mountains, lakes, and forests. The Knutshøe Traverse is a 60-kilometer (37-mile) hike that takes you across some of the highest mountains in Rondane National Park. The Snøhetta Hike is a 19-kilometer (12-mile) hike to the top of Snøhetta, the highest mountain in Rondane National Park. The hike is challenging but offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The best time to visit Rondane National Park is during the summer (June-August). The weather is mild and sunny during this time, and the days are long. However, the park can be crowded during summer in Norway, so if you're looking for a more peaceful experience, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October). If you're interested in skiing, the best time to visit Rondane National Park is during the winter in Norway (December-March). The park has a number of ski resorts, where you can enjoy downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

Norwegian Scenic Route Rondane runs from Venabygdsfjellet to Folldal, with a detour from Sollia Church to Enden. The total distance of 75 km (Road 27/219). As you ride through Rondane, you'll encounter a variety of terrains. The Rondane National Park is home to several peaks over 2,000 meters, offering spectacular views and a sense of adventure – if you decide to make a hike. The trails are well-marked and maintained, making it accessible for everyone. One of the highlights of the ride is the opportunity to see the park's rich wildlife. Rondane is home to reindeer, moose, and a variety of bird species. You'll pass by traditional Norwegian cabins and farms, some of which date back centuries. These historical sites provide a glimpse into the way of life in this remote part of Norway. Overall, the ride through Rondane is a perfect blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural history, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves the great outdoors.

The Norwegian Scenic Route Rondane is one of 18 selected roads in Norway. The road follows the eastern side of Rondane National Park and runs through cultural landscapes and the majestic mountain massif. The drive alongside the blue mountains is an adventurous journey through nature, culture and geology.