The mountain route to Notodden
When travelling from Rjukan to Oslo, take the time for the route through Tuddal and over the mountain &endash; the scenery is breathtaking and the trip will give you an insight into the ancient cultural history of this region.
Take a detour to Gaustatoppen and you'll be rewarded by the sight of Heddal stave church before arriving in Norway's Blues capital, Notodden.
The largest stave church in Norway
Heddal stave church is the largest in the country, and is first mentioned in historical records from 1315. The church was built about 1250 and was dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is decorated with the traditional vine and animal motifs and some fantastic human figures. Legend has it that Finn the troll who lives in the Svintru mountain built the church in three days.
Heddal stave church is still in use as a parish church, and is open for guided tours from 20 May to 10 September. For more information, tel.: + 47 35 02 04 00 / 91 78 42 39 or visit our web site: www.kfn.no
Omnesfossen at Hjartdal district comprises three communities: Hjartdal, Sauland and Tuddal
Hjartdal where urban Norway meets the mountains Hjartdal is a sparsely populated district consisting of mountains and farms. The district comprises three communities: Hjartdal, Sauland and Tuddal.
Hjartdal, the westernmost community, has a beautiful landscape dominated by small-scale agriculture, old buildings, stone walls, valuable cultural heritage and old highways. Nominated for Unesco cultural landscape prize in 2003, it is the ideal place to let your mind, taste buds, body and soul experience local culture and traditions.
Sauland, the districts administrative centre, has a bank, post office, filling station, police station and health centre. Omnesfossen waterfall, near Fossen Kro on Hwy E134, is one of natures masterpieces. Nearby are Heddal Mølle, an old mill building, and a great swimming spot with natural water slides in the rock.
Once you have driven through Tuddal valley and reached the main road, take a break for a cup of coffee at Fossen Kro, nearby Omnesfossen waterfall. There is a motel, campsite and café here, with a unique cultural history. Also well worth a visit is the glass works where you can watch the fascinating craft of glassblowing.
Information Hjartdal tourist information centre: Tel. +47 35 02 48 68 Tuddal Bygdetun museum: +47 915 85 526
Notodden municipal administration: 35 01 50 00
Tourist information: 35 01 50 00
Notodden Community website: www.notodden.kommune.no/
Notodden Blues festival: http://www.bluesfest.no/
People who viewed 'The mountain route to Notodden' also found interest in following Norwegian articles . . .