The true miracle is not walking on water or walking in air, but simply walking on this earth.
— Thich Nhat Hanh
We invite you to join us on this 9-day adventure. Moving through wide open landscapes, through changing weather and long walking distances. We carry what we need and let the rhythm of walking shape our days. Sharing the simple joy of spending time outdoors in nature.
The guidance of the Plum Village monks weaves mindfulness gently into each day: through walking meditation, attentive breathing, and deep listening. Together, we form a kind of walking monastery – a temporary community where there is space to be real, to share honestly, and to support one another.
Date & Cost
Date: June 25th – July 3rd, 2026
Cost: 1770 euro – 2370 euro, depending on the choice of accommodation and Dana.
Arrival & Departure
- Arrival: Hjerkinn Fjellstue on June 25th before 16.00.
Train from Oslo/Oslo Airport (Gardemoen) to Hjerkinn Station. Our first shared dinner will be at 19.00. - Departure: The retreat ends on July 3rd at 10:00 at Brekkeseter Fjellhotell, after breakfast and our final group gathering. Then Taxi/bus to Otta and train onwards.
The Hike
The hike covers approximately 88 km in total, with around 3,133 meters of ascent and 3,500 meters of descent. All practical details are taken care of, so you can fully relax into the journey and the beauty that surrounds you. The retreat includes a minimum of six full hiking days, with an optional seventh day available for those who wish to join a summit hike.
Physical Readiness
This hike through Rondane is a physically demanding retreat and requires you to have a moderate to high level of endurance and stability. You need to be comfortable walking for several hours (between 4-8) each day while carrying a backpack of 15-20 % of your own bodyweight, or 10-15 kg. We kindly ask you to reflect carefully on your current physical health and fitness before signing up.
Weather
- This hike is set in June, when weather is generally mild, but changeable.
- General daytime temperatures: 10–20°C (50–68°F).
- Nighttime and higher altitudes: Temperatures can drop below zero and there is a small possibility for snow and ice.
- Sun: 19 hours and true darkness never really setting.
Equipment
We carry as light as possible and all that we need in our backpacks. Luggage transportation is only offered on the first 2 days because of strict regulation of Rondane National park. It is important to pack warm baselayers, where wool is the preferred option. Also a good rainproof jacket and sturdy hiking boots.
Retreat Guidelines
- Electronics: We encourage you to turn off your phone or keep it on airplane mode throughout the journey. Mobile reception is limited or unavailable at several cabins along the route, supporting the retreat’s intention to unplug.
- Accommodation: Traditional mountain cabins along the route offer simple comfort, warmth, and hearty meals, with accommodation in shared dormitories (8–16 mixed-gender beds) or shared two-bed rooms (same-gender or for couples).
- Food: Vegetarian at base with vegan options.
Registration
All registration, logistics, payment and confirmations are organised by Martine Setsaas and Maaike Schotanus.
- Spaces are limited; early registration is recommended.
- To register, please fill out this registration form.
- For further questions: stepsofwonder.journeys@gmail.com
Before registering, please review the PDF flyer below for information on the retreat, costs, and logistics