Start our backpacking adventure from Mjonøy Camping, the perfect place to start and finish your hikes on Norwegian trails. Located in the picturesque village of Vinje, the campground offers excellent conditions for backpackers looking for a comfortable place to pitch a tent or park an RV. With an impressive 4.6-star rating, Mjonøy Camping stands out not only for its location, but also for the quality of its services.

One of the site's greatest assets is its rustic character, which allows close contact with nature. Guests praise the cleanliness and neatness of the sanitary facilities, which is extremely important for weary hikers. Prices are affordable - as an example, the site charges 300 Norwegian kroner for a camper space with electricity for five people (as of September 2023).

However, what really sets Mjonøy Camping apart is the bakery located on the grounds. Guests unanimously praise the fresh baked goods, especially the bread and rolls, which are a great start to the day before hitting the trail. It's also a great opportunity to stock up on supplies for the rest of the hike.

The campground is located adjacent to a 20-meter-wide mountain river, which adds to the charm and creates a unique atmosphere. Traditional Telemark-style buildings complete the picture, making a stay here a truly Norwegian experience.

However, it is worth remembering that the camping area can be waterlogged, especially after rain, which can make it difficult to navigate. In addition, some guests point out the limited number of electrical outlets. When planning your stay, it is worth taking these aspects into account and preparing accordingly.

Mjonøy Camping is not just a place to stay, but a true gateway to Norwegian adventures. From here you can easily reach nearby hiking trails, starting your backpacking expeditions. Keep in mind that many visitors recommend booking in advance, especially during the summer season, when camping is popular with tourists from all over the world.

Continuing our backpacking adventure, we can't leave out two of the region's most magnificent national parks - Dovrefjell and Rondane. These two protected areas offer unparalleled experiences for lovers of wildlife and active recreation.

Dovrefjell National Park, with an impressive 4.7-star rating, is a true paradise for backpackers. Located in the heart of Norway's mountains, the park impresses with its ruggedness and untamed nature. It's a place where you can encounter the iconic muskoxen, if you're lucky or patient. Dovrefjell offers a plethora of trails of varying degrees of difficulty, so there is something for everyone. Note the fantastically groomed path for walking through the valley, which allows you to enjoy the captivating scenery without having to undertake difficult climbs.

On the other hand, Rondane National Park, the oldest national park in Norway, with an equally high rating of 4.8 stars, is an ideal place for a multi-day trek with a tent or based on local hostels. The park is famous for its variety of trails, from easy walks to challenging routes for experienced hikers. A unique feature of Rondane is the ability to camp for free almost anywhere in the park (except near the refuges, where a fee applies).

When comparing the two parks, several aspects are worth noting:

1. accessibility: Dovrefjell is less crowded and offers a wilder experience, while Rondane, due to its history and infrastructure, may be friendlier to less experienced backpackers.

2 Landscape: Dovrefjell has a more rugged, alpine landscape, while Rondane offers more varied terrain, from gentle valleys to sharp peaks.

3. Fauna: In Dovrefjell we have the chance to encounter muskrats, which is rare in Rondane. However, both parks are home to reindeer and many species of birds.

4. Infrastructure: Rondane has a better developed network of shelters and marked trails, which can be a plus for novice backpackers.

Regardless of your choice, both parks offer unforgettable views and opportunities to commune with wildlife. In Dovrefjell, you will be delighted by the vast expanses and the opportunity to encounter rare animal species, while Rondane will charm you with its diverse landscapes and perfectly groomed trails.

Remember that in both parks you should be prepared for changing weather conditions. Proper equipment, including warm and waterproof clothing, is essential regardless of the season. It's also a good idea to bring a map and compass, as cell phone coverage may be limited.

Both Dovrefjell and Rondane offer unique opportunities for photographers, from majestic mountain panoramas to intimate wildlife shots. Whether you're an experienced backpacker or just starting out on your hiking adventure, these national parks will give you an unforgettable experience and allow you to fully appreciate the beauty of Norwegian nature.

To conclude our backpacking adventure in the Mjonoy region, we can't leave out one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the area - Nykkjesøyfossen waterfall. With an impressive 4.8 star rating, this majestic waterfall is a must-see on the map for any nature lover and landscape photographer.

Nykkjesøyfossen is located in the picturesque Husedalen valley, not far from Kinsarvik. It is the third of four impressive waterfalls that can be admired on a hike through this valley. The route to Nykkjesøyfossen offers not only the destination of a spectacular waterfall, but also incredible views along the way, making the whole trip an unforgettable experience.

The hike to Nykkjesøyfossen varies in difficulty. The first section of the route, leading up to the first waterfall, is suitable for baby carriages and wheelchairs, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. However, the further into the valley one goes, the more challenging the route becomes. From the second waterfall onward, the path gets steep and difficult in places, adding an element of adventure to the trip.

The time it takes to reach Nykkjesøyfossen depends on your walking pace and the number of stops, but on average it takes about 3-3.5 hours one way. It's worth planning a full-day excursion so that you have time to admire not only Nykkjesøyfossen itself, but also the other waterfalls along the route.

What makes Nykkjesøyfossen stand out from other attractions in the region?

1 - Views: The waterfall offers spectacular views that are a true feast for the eyes and camera lens. The powerful stream of water falling from a height surrounded by rugged rocks and lush greenery creates an unforgettable image.

2 Variety of the route: the trail to Nykkjesøyfossen offers a varied experience - from easy sections to more challenging passages, making it appealing to different groups of tourists.

3. Picnic Opportunity: At the top, by the lake, there is an ideal spot for a picnic overlooking the waterfall and the surrounding nature.

4. Photo opportunities: Nykkjesøyfossen is a photographer's paradise. The changing light throughout the day offers a variety of opportunities to capture the beauty of the waterfall.

When planning a trip to Nykkjesøyfossen, be sure to prepare accordingly:

• Bring comfortable, waterproof trekking shoes - the trail can be slippery, especially after rain.
• Pack enough water and snacks - there are no refreshment centers along the route.
• Take warm and waterproof clothes with you - the weather in the mountains can change quickly.
• Don't forget your camera or camcorder - the views are worth capturing.

Nykkjesøyfossen is not only a hiking destination, but also a symbol of the power and beauty of Norwegian nature. The sound of falling water, the surrounding mountains and the clean, crisp air create an atmosphere that remains in the memory for a long time. This is the perfect place to end our backpacking adventure in the Mjonoy region, leaving our hearts longing to return to these extraordinary Norwegian landscapes.