Rondane National Park

Rondane is Norway’s oldest national park, established in 1962 to protect its wild reindeer herds and striking mountain scenery. It is home to 10 breathtaking peaks, each reaching over 2,000 metres (6,500 feet) high. The overall altitude of the park stands far above sea level, with its lowest point sitting at roughly 1,000 metres (3,300 feet) high.

 

This mostly treeless, otherworldly plateau is an important habitat for herds of wild reindeer, (one of Europe’s last truly ‘wild’ herds) and moose. Archaeological findings here show that nomadic hunter-gatherers lived off the reindeer as far back as 3,500 years ago, building communities among the mountains.

 

For centuries, locals have moved livestock through these valleys, leaving behind traditions of farming and mountain culture that still shape the area today.  The landscape here inspired poets and painters, most famously Henrik Ibsen, who wrote about the mountains in Peer Gynt.

 

Popular activities in Rondane include hiking, biking and cross-country skiing, and the park is known for its well-maintained trails. Information about the park or guided excursions in the area can be found at tourist centres in the communities of Otta, Folldal, Ringebu, Vinstra, Bjorli or Dombås.