Solo Adventure in Norway's Rondane National Park

A Day of Nature's Embrace

Today was a symphony of nature's wonders, a day where the raw beauty of Rondane National Park unfolded before my eyes. From the cascading waters of Øvre Fallfossen, a stunning waterfall in the heart of Norway's natural landscape, perfect for nature lovers and photographers, to the insightful guidance at Nasjonalparkriket Tourism, every moment was a testament to the serene and majestic allure of this Norwegian treasure. It was a day of simple pleasures, local tastes, and the quiet joy of solo exploration.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Øvre Fallfossen, a stunning waterfall in the heart of Norway's natural landscape, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Rondane Høyfjellshotell. The buffet was a delightful spread of local cheeses, freshly baked bread, and strong Norwegian coffee. Fuelled and ready, I set out towards Øvre Fallfossen, a waterfall I had read so much about. The drive itself was stunning, with the landscape transitioning into a canvas of verdant greens and rugged mountains. I parked near the entrance of Rondane National Park and embarked on the hike to the waterfall.

The trail was well-marked, winding through a forest that felt ancient and untouched. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating dappled patterns on the forest floor. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. As I hiked, I couldn't help but reflect on how much I cherish these solo journeys. There’s a unique sense of peace that comes from being alone in nature, a chance to disconnect from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with oneself.

After about an hour and a half, the sound of rushing water grew louder, signalling that I was close. And then, there it was – Øvre Fallfossen, a breathtaking cascade of water plunging through a narrow passage in the rocks. The sight was mesmerizing. I spent a long time simply watching the water, feeling the cool mist on my face, and listening to the thunderous roar. I took several photos, trying to capture the essence of its raw power and beauty, knowing full well that no image could truly do it justice.

The beauty of a waterfall lies not just in its visual splendor, but in the symphony of nature that surrounds it, a reminder of the earth's enduring power and artistry.

Leaving Øvre Fallfossen, I felt invigorated and deeply connected to the natural world. My next stop was Nasjonalparkriket Tourism, an organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the national parks in the region. I wanted to learn more about the park's ecosystem, its history, and the conservation efforts in place.


Discover the stunning trails and breathtaking views of Nasjonalparkriket, Norway's premier hiking destination for all nature lovers.

The visitor center was informative, with exhibits detailing the local flora and fauna, as well as the geological history of Rondane. I spoke with one of the guides, who shared fascinating insights about the wild reindeer that roam the park and the ancient trapping sites used by early inhabitants. It was eye-opening to learn about the delicate balance of this ecosystem and the importance of responsible tourism.

By lunchtime, I was ready for a bite to eat. I headed to Rondane Gjestegård, a charming guesthouse known for its traditional Norwegian fare. The guesthouse exuded warmth and hospitality, with its rustic décor and friendly staff. I ordered a plate of rømmegrøt, a traditional sour cream porridge, and a side of smoked salmon. It was the perfect comfort food after a morning of hiking and exploration.


Experience nature's splendor at Rondane Gjestegård – your gateway to adventure in Norway's breathtaking landscapes.

In the afternoon, I decided to explore more of the local area. I made a stop at Joker Atnbrua (Atnbrua Handel), a local shop that came highly recommended. This wasn't just any shop; it was a community hub, a place where locals gathered to exchange news and stories. I picked up some local cheeses and a bottle of saft, a traditional fruit juice, for a picnic later on.


Explore authentic Norwegian flavors at Joker Atnbrua, a beloved grocery store in Sollia, offering local goods and fresh produce.

For dinner, I chose Rondane Fjellstue, a mountain lodge with a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. The lodge was cozy and inviting, with a crackling fireplace and walls adorned with vintage photographs. I enjoyed a hearty meal of reindeer stew, a local specialty, and savored every bite as I reflected on the day's adventures.


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

As the day drew to a close, I found myself thinking about tomorrow's itinerary. I'm planning to visit Klokkesteinen, a fascinating rock formation, and Dovre National Park, another gem in Norway's crown. I'm also hoping to find a cozy spot at Tyst, a local bar, to unwind and perhaps share stories with fellow travelers.

Today was a reminder of why I love solo travel so much. It’s about the freedom to explore at my own pace, to discover hidden gems, and to connect with nature on a deeper level. Rondane National Park has truly captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Switzerland, with its own majestic Alps, holds a special place in my heart, but Norway's Rondane offers a unique, serene beauty that's equally captivating. It reminds me of my childhood adventures in Sarnen, and I feel grateful to be able to experience such natural wonders in different corners of the world. As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I'm reminded of a Swiss saying my grandmother used to repeat: “Wer rastet, der rostet” – He who rests, rusts. Time to keep exploring!

And with that, I bid goodnight from the heart of Rondane. Tomorrow, more adventures await!