From the Lower Rhine to the Lofoten and the fjords

After a stress-free journey we reached our first stop in Sittensen. We got one of the 6 free parking spaces at the watermill. Very nice little town with half-timbered houses and green spaces. Ice cream parlor nearby with delicious ice cream. Later we had a kebab. Very warm, but still beautiful day. Good start to the tour.

Parking at the Viking Museum Fyrkatvej directly at the former castle. You drive past the replica Viking village and get to the castle. The friendly lady at the till allowed us the standing time. We paid admission and visited the former Viking castle and the graves. In the evening we walked between two lakes to the Viking village and were able to visit it well, although it was already closed. Gorgeous area. In the evening we drank a glass of wine with a lady from Braunschweig. Later came 5 more mobile homes. At night we could use the toilet. Great.

First we drove past the 28 at the Fermundensee. We touched the Fermundsmarka National Park with many beautiful lakes and rich in forest. We stopped in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Røros. An interesting place with its wooden houses blackened by copper quarrying. The place looks rustic but well-kept. And environmentally conscious with the grass-covered roofs. We enjoyed delicious cocoa and, for the first time, the cinnamon rolls known for Norway in a quaint little café. We paid parking fees, but unfortunately found out later that you could have parked for free at the museum of the old copper factory. From Røros we drove over the 30 along the river Gaula. We touched the foothills of the Forollhogna National Park with its mountain birch slopes. The vegetation there is covered with lichens. Everything shimmered bright green. On the way we were greeted by 4 reindeer and 1 moose. He came towards us on the road and then crossed. A snapshot succeeded. There are various farms and huts in the Gaudalental. Sheep often graze right next to the road. At Støren we drove onto the E6 and passed Trondheim and then the fjord of the same name. We stayed at Strindmoen campsite by Snåsvatnet. The campsite is simple but clean. An underpass leads to the lake, where we photographed a beautiful sunset. At the back of the site, a small waterfall rushes towards the lake. Despite the train and road, we slept well. The morning shower was okay too.

It was very windy during the day. So we parked the mobile home near the reception. Despite the wind and light rain, we hiked from the Sto pitch in the direction of Nyksund to the sandy beach of Skipssand. The Dronningruta hike is slightly difficult and not easy because of the damp paths, but it was fun. In the evening the storm increased. It got so violent that we drove off the site and parked the camper on the unpaved parking lot in front of it. There it was somewhat more protected by rocks in front of it. A little later other campers followed our example. Nevertheless, the storm tugged at our nerves all night. But everything went well.

Two nights were enough for us at the square in Stø. Therefore, we accepted a somewhat longer journey and stayed for one night at the well-kept and idyllic Oppmyre Camping site near Myre with its exemplary equipped and clean sanitary facilities. Each camper pitch with a view of the fjord is assigned a wooden platform as a terrace. On Wednesday the sun was shining and we were finally able to take part in the whale safari. The sea was still rough. The pills offered by the organizer helped us. The team tried very hard and so we were able to experience Finn whales, sperm whales and killer whales in the wild. We saw several groups of orcas. The tour was rounded off with a sighting of some white-tailed eagles. Overall an impressive experience. Unfortunately, everyone wanted to take the best photo and make the most beautiful film, just like us, of course. That's why there was always a big crowd at the railing.

In the morning the sun shone from a deep blue sky. We drove on through a picture book landscape. The destination was the fishing village of Henningsvær. Passing a dream beach and high cliffs, we reached the parking lot in front of the bridge. 2 hours free parking time. So walk over the bridge and look at the place. Worth seeing in the port. We walked to the rorbuer, but it wasn't worth it. Back to the car, time was running out. At the parking lot there was already a check by the municipality. It was just enough. The goal was supposed to be Gimsøysand, but somehow we missed it. So we ended up in Eggum. The access to the nature reserve and the parking space can be reached through a gate. If you continue through it, you get to the kiosk below the tower built by the Germans during the war, now a ruin. In the kiosk you pay for the parking space and can use the toilet. We had a great view of the sea and hiked towards Unstad. Many sheep could be seen, some of which populated high cliffs. We took a look at the artwork Head. And there is also much else to see. At that time it was not crowded. In the evening the play of light is overwhelming.

From Eggum we first drove to the Winking Museum near Borg. Interestingly presented and very suitable for some nice pictures. Then we got to Haukland Beach, a real dream beach. As previously read, we pulled onto a lawn in front of the beach after removing the driveway rope. As announced, it wasn't long before an older gentleman came to collect the money. There was no service, but the location encouraged us to stay 2 nights. A first walk on the beach let us experience wonderful views. And as before, our enthusiasm for nature increased in the evening.

For the 27.8. we decided to hike to Uttakleiv Beach. We first chose the route over the mountain. It went up steeply and partly over larger steps and rocks. You should be sure-footed and have non-slip shoes. Because rain was announced, we also took weatherproof clothing with us, which was worth it. Above the ridge it started to rain and it stormed quite well too. We avoided the climb to Mannen and hiked down to Uttakleiv beach. We found shelter in a cave with a bench and took a break. The view of the also great beach cheered us up. When the weather improved, we went back via the Uttakleiv parking space around the mountain. Great motifs everywhere. In the evening we went to the parking space there for the purpose of disposal and supply. You can get to it through a tunnel. The road ends behind the beach. We had to pay double for taking in water. We felt that as a rip off, especially since no sign pointed out. Nevertheless, we experienced a wonderful evening on the Haukland beach when the weather was nice.

The Lofoten said goodbye to us with a beautiful rainbow 🌈 over Reine. The free disposal station there is really exemplary. Thanks for that. We took the Moskenes ferry to Bodø. From there we made a detour to Saltstraumen, the strongest tidal current in Europe, but found it not very spectacular, at least during our visit. Then we made kilometers and drove via Fauske and on the E36 towards Svartisengletscher. On the way, my wife spotted two mooses in a meadow. At Røssvoll a road led to the glacier. We parked in a forest parking lot in pretty much solitude. Only a Bulli with bikers parked nearby. The access road stretches. It is advisable to take the driveway to the pier. There are nice pitches there, but we didn't know that. Contrary to the announcement, the boat did not cross the lake in the last days of August. Hiking was announced for the next day...

In the morning the neighboring Bulli drove away. We ourselves wanted to go to the glacier and first walked 2 km along the access road. We got to the jetty, but found that it was closed. We also saw that this was the actual parking space. We had seen a machine on the access road where you could probably have paid for the parking time. As it was, it didn't cost us anything apart from Kraft... But the latter should still play a role. A sign in the deserted place pointed out that a path along the lake leads to the jetty and from there to the glacier. Distance 14 km there and back. Since my wife didn't trust herself, I wanted to go alone. The next moment, however, a van with a couple from Eschwege drove up. They also actually wanted to use the boat. Since it was no longer driving, we men decided to set off together. It then went constantly uphill and downhill, past ponds, through morass, over and under branches and was very exhausting. The women also hiked a bit along the lake. Already on the way there I found it very exhausting. As the path seemed unending, we finally got to the boat dock. Now there were still 3 kilometers over rock slabs and climbs. Then finally the glacier... Great to look at in its blue. My companion was very fit and ran all the way to the glacier. I myself took photos from a distance. I rested because the same difficult path had to be walked back. I honestly have to admit that I reached my limits during the hike. Several pauses for breath were necessary. I was grateful to my companion for being by my side. I made it back anyway, but was exhausted. I would probably not have visited the glacier alone and would have turned back. However, we also met young people who could manage this route well. At my age, however, I found it difficult. And our women were pretty exhausted too. We gratefully accepted the offer to ride in the van to our Womo. From the parking lot we only drove to Røssvoll, where we rested on the beautiful pitch.

Røssvoll Camping is a nice site with good sanitary facilities. We were able to observe several cranes on a meadow across a small lake. On 08/31 we drove first to Mo i Rana, where we filled up gas. We wanted to avoid Trondheim with some construction sites and turned to the coast. The weather should get better there. From Nesna we took the ferry to Levang. From there it went on over the Helgelandsbrua. It leads across the Leirfjord and onto the island of Alsta. This island is dominated by the 1000m high mountains called the Seven Sisters. We chose a pitch directly opposite the mountains, Camping Sandnessjøen. In the evening the mountains were still clouded. However, the pitch right by the sea still allowed wonderful views.

We drove back and took the turn onto the 680. We used the Tommervag - Seivika and Solsnes - Arfarnes ferries and drove past the Tingvollfjord. From there on to Andalsnes. On the way we particularly liked the island of Aure. Magnificent views. We were also particularly taken with the Stemshaus Kyrkje in its bright red. By the way, there is a well-kept toilet in the outbuilding that can be used by visitors. The evening at Camping Mjelva in Andalsnes turned into a red-orange dream. The mountains literally glowed. The campsite itself has everything you need. We had a beautiful view of the valley from the mountain.

On Sunday morning we went to the Romsdalen gondola and booked the one-way trip up Mount Nesaksla. Before that, we went to the small chapel in a wagon on the platform and stopped for a moment. From the top of Nesaksla at 1679 m, there is an outstanding view of the mountaineering village, the Rauma River and the Isfjord. We wanted to walk down to the Rampestekken viewing platform. For my wife, the descent was difficult because of the steep and high steps, especially at the beginning. I wouldn't recommend the descent in wet weather. Especially in the first third below the summit, the descent was not entirely without danger from our point of view, especially since the climb runs directly on the slope. Nevertheless, we also made it to the platform. After a short wait we were able to go to the front, take great pictures and enjoy the view for a moment. Since it is heavily frequented by hikers as a platform, we only stayed there for a short time. After that it was a little easier downhill over steps and tree roots. Finally, a metal ramp showed us that we were approaching the starting point. We reached our mobile home just before the parking time expired. We continued our journey and had planned to drive over the Trollstigen for the day.

We drove through the valley from Andalsnes, past the Trollveggen wall. We stopped briefly in a parking lot in front of the Trollstigen driveway. The sight of the 12 hairpin bends running along the steep flank commanded our respect. Nevertheless, we dared the journey. With the camper it went steeply uphill through the 12 hairpin bends. Not without encountering oncoming vehicles, of course. Somehow our counterpart or we always found an alternative. The side view of the abyss is exciting. When we got there we parked in the parking lot. Buses also arrive there, whose users also want to go to the viewing platforms above the Trollstigen. Like them, we took beautiful photos and videos. Then we had released enough adrenaline for the day and looked for a nice parking lot in the fell of the Reinheimen National Park. We found what we were looking for at a small lake.

After spending the night in Reinheimen National Park, we continued towards Geiranger. We came to Gudbrands Juvet, a narrow gorge with a waterfall. Equally impressive is the metal path laid out by the Norwegians. Nearby a cafe, which is also approached by coaches. We just looked at the waterfall and drove on. We crossed the Storfjord with the ferry Linge - Eidsdal. On the 63 we passed the beautiful lake Eidsvatnet. Here the water is as smooth as glass and the surrounding mountains are reflected in it. Almost as impressive as the trip over the Trollstigen was the tour down to Geiranger with just as sharp curves and hairpin bends. We had to avoid a vantage point because it was covered with buses and other campers. However, we were able to enjoy great views of the Geirangerfjord during the trip. "Mein Schiff" with a smoking chimney can already be seen from afar. The valley was fogged. In the valley itself we then saw the huge Costa Diadema lying at anchor. In contrast, "Mein Schiff" still looked small. We continued through the village towards Vinje Caming above. There we quartered ourselves. In the course of visiting Geiranger, we met a large number of ship tourists. The place was quite busy. Still, we think it's worth seeing. There is a parking space directly on the lake in the village. Nicely located, but we prefer it a little off the beaten track. After delicious soft ice cream and shopping for stuffed trolls for the grandchildren, we took the hiking trail past the roaring waterfall back to the campsite. Vinje Camping has several straight pitches with electricity. Since we didn't need it, we stood on the grass. Despite our wedges, it wasn't easy to stand there straight. So the places with electricity are recommended...

From Geiranger we first drove to the Dalsnibba viewpoint. The drive up is again narrow and winding. In addition, the ascent is subject to a fee. There is a larger car park at the top and the view of the Geirangerfjord is outstanding. There is the possibility to climb over stones and rocks a little way from the parking lot and take great photos. Then we drove the 15 via Grotli and past Lake Otta to the stave church in Lom. We visited the beautiful wooden church and then continued on the Sognefjell Road (55) through the high mountains of the Sognefjell in the Jotunheimen National Park, which are well worth seeing. We passed the hiker's hut Sognefjellshytta, near the Galdhopiggen. The high mountains left an impression on us, as the landscape there is of fascinating beauty. When we went downhill again, we spent the night in a lonely little parking lot by a small river on 55th Street.

We drove on 07.09. a bit back on the 55 and then drive onto the Tindevegen, a toll road. A mistake from our point of view, because the area is interspersed with power lines and pylons. All in all, this street didn't seem so attractive to us, of course we were a bit spoiled. In addition, the hairpin bends at the end and just before Øvre Årdal are extremely tight and stressful. A bit annoyed, we then drove on the 53, the 5 and the E16 towards Aurlandsfjord. The trip through the almost 25 km long Laerdals tunnel with its 3 colorfully lit "cathedrals" is definitely spectacular. The curves to the Stegastein vantage point are similarly tight and technically challenging, but have to be accepted for an enchanting view. When you get to the top, there is a lot going on. Now in September probably not as dramatic as in summer. But the platform offers a magnificent view over the Aurlandsfjord. You can also sit on the toilet and enjoy the view of the valley through a pane of glass. It's not everywhere either. Almost nothing went back. We were in a column of 5 when a car came towards us. Too narrow to pass, he had to reverse and got into a gully on the mountain, causing his vehicle to lift off in front. Ultimately, however, he managed to pull back to an alternative. Similar bottlenecks must always be expected. This was also the case on our trip to Nærøyfjorden Camping in Bakka. First a construction site, then through a narrow tunnel and further along a narrow path that doesn't seem to want to end. On the way almost nothing worked anymore because we met a herd of goats running free, which were also followed by two cars. Passing was only possible with mirrors folded in and maneuvering to the edge. Then a few more fears that there would be no more oncoming traffic, and you were there. The location of the course on the Nærøyfjord is overwhelming. You can rent boats and go hiking. The place does not offer disposal, but the sanitary facilities are great. We treated ourselves to sunbathing right on the fjord and enjoyed the view. Conclusion, the journey was exhausting, but it was worth it. In the evening we walk through the village and along the fjord. From here you can only go back, which is why we decide to leave as early as possible in the morning in order to have as little oncoming traffic as possible. We were able to dispose of it a short distance back at the gas station in Gudvangen.

Contrary to our plan to hike the small troll tongue Himåkanå at Hindaråvåg, we decided to visit Starvanger. The reason was that not so good weather had been announced and we also wanted to turn to the Preikestolen as soon as possible. We actually wanted to leave Stavanger out, but that would have been a mistake afterwards. Because we really liked the city. We found the Gamle - old town quarter with the gray colored and flower-decorated small wooden houses particularly beautiful. The alley Øvre Holmegate with its colorful houses is also very inviting. Except for a small shower we were lucky and enjoyed the beautiful day. The Disney Magic in the harbor is also impressive with its water slides, which can be seen from the outside. The parking space at the port can be specified as an ideal starting point for a city tour. On the way to Preikestolen Camping we drove through the 14 km long Ryfylke - underwater tunnel for the first time. The evening at Camping Preikestolen, a huge area with everything you need, had a great sunset ready for us. There is a small path up a hill near and opposite the reception. Recommended for photographing a sunset.

After checking out of the campsite, we drove to the upper hiker's car park at Preikestolen. We paid the 250 NOK for the standing time and started hiking. Right at the beginning it went steeply uphill on an asphalt path. Not easy for my wife. Then continue over roots and stones to a first small stopover on a plateau with a viewpoint. It was almost like a mass migration, because many like us wanted to climb this highlight. And so it went for us, too, over footbridges that led over high moors to steeper climbs that ended on a rocky plateau. Small lakes could be admired almost at the top. Then the last climb past steep edges and you were there, at the place of longing Preikestolen. The daring had placed themselves directly on the cliff edge. We also quickly took a few "impressive" shots ourselves, in order to then have a little snack and drink break on one of the safe rocks nearby. The "pulpit" really offered a fantastic view of the Lysefjord lying deep in blue. And it was hard to resist the magic of that sheer chasm. Experienced hikers were drawn to the less frequented summit, which certainly offered other great views. But it was enough for us and we hiked back the same route. On the way we kept coming into contact with a very nice older couple from Switzerland. Simply likeable this couple and for us a nice incident on the edge. Pretty exhausted we arrived at the bottom and licked another ice cream from the kiosk. Then the journey went back through the more than 14 km long Ryfylk tunnel. The drive into the evening took us towards the lighthouse Lindesnes Fyr.

From Stavanger we wanted to slowly orientate ourselves in the direction of the Kristiansand ferry port, whereby the parking space at the lighthouse near Lindesnes should definitely be approached. We chose the route along the 44 and were able to experience a completely different landscape near Egersund due to the Magma Geopark there. The volcanic rock has created a huge landscape, characterized by massive rock formations. Towards evening we chose the beautiful parking lot at the Amphidromic Point Restplace with a clean toilet. There were 3 other mobile homes with us at the rest area. The view of the sea spoiled us again. An artist has positioned a stone statue on a rock. (Rock body sculpture) As in our case, the figure's gaze is directed towards the open sea. The lookout car park provides information on a board about the creation of the Geopark. Luckily, after an overnight stay, we decided to take the 44 back a bit to Egersund. Our destination, the wonderful Skadbergsanden beach, which seemed almost Caribbean to us. We walked along the well-tended beach for a while. In the summer it should be busy here, but now it was almost deserted. Even though time was running out, we still drove to the idyllic village of Sokndalstranden and visited this nice little place, which seemed a bit sleepy to us at the time. But then we went to the lighthouse Lindesnes Fyr. Luckily we were still able to admire the tower during the setting sun. There was something very romantic about the evening atmosphere. An AIDA ship passed in the distance. We had nice photos with us when it rained heavily after dark. It didn't bother us anymore. We had paid for the parking space at the machine on site and were able to use the toilet at the tourist point to the Lindesnes Fyr lighthouse. Disposal is possible free of charge on the return journey at the Servicepoint Spangereid in 2630 Spangereidveien.

Wonderful memories of a great country remain. Norway has fascinated us from the very beginning and we know very well that this country has so many more natural beauties to offer. Someday maybe again...! In any case, the ferry pass (Ferjekort) and the transponder, in our case from BroBizz, are recommended and have proven their worth. At the ferries our number plate was scanned and that was it. Toll billing was also unproblematic. In a short time we were able to understand all the costs. A total of 14 campsites were visited in 32 days. We found the infrastructure at most campsites, waste disposal stations and rest areas to be very well organized and pleasant. The petrol station network was also well developed. It was helpful for us to use the relevant apps, including those from Statens Vegvesen, here Ferry Search and Traffic Info, as well as LPG Filling. In addition, the parking space searches via the respective app operator.