5 Walks in and Around Eidsfoss
Eidsfoss is best experienced on foot.
Here, you can combine beautiful nature with fascinating industrial history, historic workers’ houses, lakes, forests and cultural heritage. Whether you are looking for a short stroll or a longer hike through the woods, there are plenty of great options in and around Eidsfoss.
Here are five walks that offer different sides of Eidsfoss – from historic surroundings to forests and lakes.
1. The Cultural Trail – a walk through the history of Eidsfoss
If you want to get to know Eidsfoss, the Cultural Trail is a natural place to start.
The trail takes you through historic Eidsfoss and offers an insight into what life was like when the ironworks were at the heart of the community. Along the way, you will see old workers’ houses, historic buildings and traces of the industry that has shaped Eidsfoss.
Take your time to read the information along the trail and imagine what Eidsfoss must have been like when it was a thriving industrial community.
The trail follows small gravel roads and forest paths, with information boards along the way telling the story of life and work in Eidsfoss.
Length: The longer route is just over 2 km, while the shorter route is approximately 1.2 km.
Suitable for: Anyone who wants to combine a pleasant walk with local history.
Tip: Allow some extra time to visit the museums, shops and galleries along the way.
Here you find the map and more information about the Cultural Trail
2. Sagkollen – views, ski-jumping history and bunkers
A short walk with plenty of history – and a wonderful reward at the top!
Sagkollen is a circular trail of approximately 1.7 km, starting from Gata or Bråtagata. The trail passes traces of old farms, former ski-jumping hills and bunker installations dating from the Cold War.
At the top of Sagkollen, you are rewarded with beautiful views over Eidsfoss and the surrounding lakes. It is the perfect place to take a short break and enjoy the scenery.
Did you know that Eidsfoss once had three relatively large ski-jumping hills? Sagkollen was the largest, with a hill record of an impressive 60 metres.
Length: Approx. 1.7 km
Start: Gata or Bråtagata
Suitable for: Most people looking for a short walk combining nature and history.
Here you find the map and more information about the Sagkollen trail
3. Eidshagan – forest, views and local history
Eidshagan is a beautiful circular trail starting at Eidsfoss Church. The route takes you through varied woodland and past several lovely viewpoints and historic sites.
Along the way, you can stop at Kikut, where you will enjoy views over both Lake Eikern and Lake Bergsvannet. There are also benches and a simple fire pit here – a great place to take a break.
The trail continues past Kullstua, Sandvik and an old bunker installation. Sandvik was once a popular meeting place for families in Eidsfoss, where they would gather for picnics and dancing.
Eidshagan is equally well suited to a peaceful afternoon walk or a hike where you want to get your heart rate up a little.
Length: Approx. 4 km
Start: Eidsfoss Church
Duration: Approx. 1 hour at a normal walking pace
Suitable for: Anyone looking for a slightly longer walk combining nature, views and history.
Here you find the map and more information about the Eidshagan trail
4. By the Water – enjoy the peace and quiet of Lake Eikern
Water has always been an important part of Eidsfoss, and a walk along the shoreline gives you the opportunity to experience the area from a different perspective.
Along Lake Eikern, you can enjoy the views, listen to the birds and take in the peace and tranquillity just outside the historic centre.
Bring a coffee or a packed lunch and find a spot to sit down and relax. On warm summer days, you can even combine your walk with a swim.
If you would like a slightly longer walk, the trail along Lake Eikern can also take you towards Sandvik, where you will find fire pits, shelters and a bathing area.
Suitable for: A peaceful afternoon walk, families with children, or anyone who simply wants to get outside for a little while.
Tip: The walk is especially beautiful in summer, but the lake and surrounding landscape are worth experiencing all year round.
Here you find more information about the bathing beaches at Lake Eikern and Lake Bergsvannet
5. Create Your Own Eidsfoss Walk – Culture, Nature and History
Sometimes the nicest walk is the one you create yourself.
Start in the historic centre and stroll through the old workers’ houses in Bråtagata. Continue along the water and take your time to experience the buildings, cultural heritage and stories that make Eidsfoss such a special place.
Why not visit the Ironworks Museum, or browse the galleries and shops along the way? Continue to the beautiful garden at the Manor House, before strolling through the charming old workers’ neighbourhoods of Hauane and Gata.
As your walk comes to an end, treat yourself to some traditional Norwegian pancakes (sveler) at Landhandelen, or finish with a traditional meal at Gamle Eidsfos Kro.
Suitable for: The whole family, a group of friends, or a relaxing day out for two.
Here you find the Eidsfoss brochure with a map and useful information about the area
Ready to Explore?
Whether you have half an hour or a whole day to spare, there is a walk for you in Eidsfoss.
Sagkollen offers beautiful views. Eidshagan takes you through forests and nature. The Cultural Trail brings the history of the ironworks to life. Along the water, you will find peace and tranquillity – and by creating your own Eidsfoss walk, you can enjoy a little bit of everything.
So pack your bag, put on your walking shoes and discover Eidsfoss on foot.
Enjoy your walk!
