(6)Day Six: Exploring Norway's Stunning Landscapes - Our Journey to Lom and the Wonders of Lom Stave Church

In the morning, we found it hard to leave our accommodation, which had a picturesque view, but the adventure didn't stop there. The day's ultimate destination was Lom, but the journey there exceeded all our expectations. The route from Fagernes to Lom is a major attraction. Part of this road is closed in winter due to the high mountains. Almost every kilometer offered new sights and diverse natural wonders. We didn’t have specific rest stops planned, but it wasn't necessary; we stopped wherever we found it beautiful to admire the scenery. :)

Our first stop was at the Bitihorn mountain peak, which, at an elevation of 1,600 meters, offered a breathtaking view. We paused at the rest area to take in the stunning mountain scenery. Although Peti was feeling a bit under the weather and tired, and we only took a short walk, it was still a wonderful experience. The view of the Jotunheimen National Park left a lasting impression on us.

The nearby Bygdin and Gjende lakes were also visible. Although it may seem barren and rocky, the area around Bitihorn is rich in mountain wildlife. The region is home to various wildlife, such as reindeer and ptarmigans, and it boasts a diverse bird population.

The next section of the journey featured the Sjoa River, which originates from Lake Gjende and forms a beautiful stream flowing under a bridge. This place, called Maurvangen, is a tourist center. After that, passing through the forested area, we reached Lake Vågåvatn.

The lake's crystal-clear water, fed by nearby glaciers and meltwater, is truly awe-inspiring. The lake is surrounded by lush meadows and forests, with the peaks of Jotunheimen rising in the distance.

We arrived in Lom at around 2 p.m., greeted by wonderful weather, with temperatures around 18-20 degrees Celsius and sunshine. Our accommodation was not self-check-in, so the host greeted us. He was surprised that we came from Hungary, as Hungarians are not common visitors in the area. We thought of those who would rather suffer in the sea in Croatia at 40 degrees Celsius!

Since Peti decided to rest at the accommodation, I chose to visit the famous Lom Stave Church. The church is beautiful, and although there were a few tourists, the experience was truly special. The scents and medieval atmosphere captivated me. I had to see the interior as well. The interior is richly decorated with medieval carvings and Baroque paintings. It was interesting to discover that these stave churches were traditionally coated with black tar, which provided natural protection for the wood, giving the buildings their characteristic dark color.

The Lom Stave Church dates back to the 12th century and is one of the best-preserved Norwegian structures. Its unique structure and rich decoration make it one of the greatest treasures of Norwegian cultural heritage. It is still in use today and hosts local community events.

After the visit, I went shopping at a local store called EXTRA. Interestingly, in the northern regions, there are many more local shops than international chains. Luckily, the German multinationals have also been squeezed out here, not just in Sweden. One local specialty I bought to try was Polarbröd, a flat, round bread that is light and slightly sweet in taste. It keeps very well and is stored frozen, so it always remains fresh and tasty. They even displayed it frozen, to defrost later on the shelves. But I also saw fresh "little troll bread" with a cute graphic.

Returning to the accommodation, the 18 degree temperature felt like 25-28 degrees in the sun, so I ended the day with some rest, knowing that more exciting sights awaited us the next day. :)

Interesting Facts About Lom:

Lom is a small village in central Norway, in Oppland County, and is a famous tourist destination due to its scenic mountains and natural beauty. The Lom Stave Church made the place famous, but it offers many other attractions as well.

Lom serves as a gateway to the Jotunheimen National Park, one of Norway's most impressive mountainous regions. Here lie the country's highest mountains, including Galdhøpiggen, Norway's highest peak (2,469 meters). For hikers and climbers, Lom is an ideal starting point, with easy access to the park's most beautiful areas.

Lom's center is the charming village of Fossbergom, which has retained its traditional Norwegian character. The village has numerous old, carved buildings that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage. The Lom Climate Museum is also a unique attraction, focusing on climate change and glacier melting. Here, you can join guided tours along the glaciers and gain insight into the effects of climate change in the Jotunheimen region. Lom plays a central role in the Norwegian mountain community, and the locals are renowned for their mountaineering and hiking traditions. In local cafes and guesthouses, you can meet people who are passionate about mountain life and eager to share their stories and experiences.