From Oslo to Jotunheimen National Park – a journey through raw Nordic beauty

---

Day 1: Arrive in Oslo – City Arrival & Light Exploration

Pro Tip: IcelandAir allows a stop over is Oslo for a very nominal charge. This is how we were able to visit both Iceland and Norway in one trip to maximize our flights.

• Arrival: Land at Oslo Airport (OSL) and pick up your rental car for the road trip ahead.
• Afternoon: If you have time, stretch your legs with a stroll through Vigeland Park, the Oslo Opera House, or the waterfront district Aker Brygge.
• Evening: Enjoy a cozy Norwegian dinner in the city and get a good night’s rest before heading to the mountains tomorrow.

---

Day 2: Drive to Lalm & Hike Nearby Trails

• Morning: Hit the road and drive northwest to Lalm, a scenic village tucked into the mountains (~4.5–5 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore local hiking trails around Lalm—expect creekside views, alpine meadows, and quiet wilderness.
  • Trails near Reinheimen National Park or Heidal offer peaceful, uncrowded routes.
• Evening: Stay overnight in or near Lalm in a mountain lodge or cabin for a true off-the-grid feel.

---

Day 3: Otto River, Ridderspranget & Veo Bridge + Local Pizza Night

• Morning: Drive to trails along the Otto River (Ottaelva) for a refreshing morning hike. The lush river valley and glacial waters offer beautiful views and picnic spots.
• Midday: Head to Ridderspranget (The Knight’s Leap) near Randsverk—a dramatic gorge with a legendary tale and scenic viewpoints.
• Afternoon: Continue to Veo Bridge, a photogenic river crossing with turquoise water and trail access.
• Evening: After a full day of adventure, reward yourself with some surprisingly tasty Norwegian pizza in a small town pizzeria (yes, it’s a thing!). Look for locally made options in towns like Vågåmo or Otta.

---

Day 4: Jotunheimen National Park – Besseggen Ridge & Fjord Views

• Morning: Drive into Jotunheimen National Park, home to Norway’s tallest peaks and some of the most iconic hikes in the country.
• Hike: If you’re up for a challenge, the Besseggen Ridge hike offers jaw-dropping views between a bright blue lake and a deep green one. It’s strenuous but worth every step.
• Alternative: For a lighter option, hike around Gjende Lake or visit the Gjendesheim cabin for shorter trails and incredible fjord views.
• Evening: Stay at a rustic lodge or cozy mountain cabin near the park entrance for an immersive wilderness experience. We enjoyed dinner at Pillargui Cafe and tried their version of pizza which was different from what we are used to in America but I loved it.

Day 5: Scenic Drive through Jotunheimen – Mountain Passes & Viewpoints

• Morning: Spend your final day driving through Jotunheimen National Park, stopping at incredible viewpoints, waterfalls, and alpine plateaus.
• Must-Stops:
  • Sognefjell Mountain Road (Sognefjellsvegen) – one of Norway’s most scenic drives
  • Tindevegen for high-mountain switchbacks and glacier views
  • Lom Stave Church – a beautiful historic stop if you pass through Lom
• Afternoon: Begin making your way back toward Oslo or onward to your next destination, depending on your flight or travel plans.

Our trip to Norway was a quick but unforgettable 5-day adventure, as it was actually the second stop on our journey after spending a few days exploring Iceland. While our time was limited, we made the most of every moment—hiking through scenic river valleys, soaking in thermal springs, and standing in awe of the towering peaks of Jotunheimen National Park. That said, we know we’ve only scratched the surface of what Norway has to offer. We’re already dreaming up our return trip, where we plan to fly into Bergen and dive deep into the majestic fjords and coastal gems along Norway’s breathtaking west coast.