Silver Mine, Tech Hub, and a Touch of Jazz
The Silver Road is Norway’s first public road, constructed between Oslo and Kongsberg after the establishment of the Kongsberg Silver Mines in 1623. Initially, the road ended in Hokksund, but was extended to Bragernes and Christiania (Oslo). This route remained a main road until 1905 when it was replaced by a new road.
A cycling route has been established along the Silver Road, passing through varied cultural landscapes, historical industrial sites and attractions on quiet roads. It traverses seven municipalities, offering numerous historically interesting sites to visit along the way. Information boards have been set up at several locations along the route.
Travel the whole stretch in one day, or combine it with a stay-over in one of the cities along the way. The good train connections make it easy to bike parts of the route.
The origin of the Silver Road. During the summer season you can join the mine-train and visit the King's mine deep into the mountain.
Buildings constructed for weekly commuting miners. Today, the houses are mostly used for various events and as a cafeteria for the nearby silver mines.
Saggrenda dam is a swimming spot and picnic area located near the Silver Mines.
The largest baroque church in the country, with a simple exterior but an extremely rich rococo interior, from 1761. The chandeliers were produced at the Nøstetangen Glassworks in Hokksund
The Mining Academy, or Regimentsgården, was built in 1786 to house higher education in mining technology, which had been conducted in Kongsberg since 1757. The purpose was to strengthen Denmark-Norway's mining knowledge and to enhance the competency levels at Kongsberg Silver Mines.
The museum documents the development of mining throughout the period the silver mines in Kongsberg were in operation.
Also known as the Glass Church. An art piece located behind the museum.
Norway's oldest toll station, operated from 1721 to 1841. Located along the Silver Road, it was one of the most important toll stations in Kongsberg. The revenues were used to maintain the bridges.
One of the oldest stone arch bridges in the country, likely built in the 1760s. The road still narrows to its original width when it passes over Smedbrua
The roads were hilly and demanding for horses and people. This small farm used to be a place for travellers to rest and change horse. Parts of the house dates back to 17th century.
A smaller arch bridge over Liverød stream. Named after all the blacksmiths that used to live in the area.
Former guesthouse with a beautiful view over Eikerbygda.
A short detour from the Silver Road, the stone church from around 1250, is beautifully situated by Fiskumvannet. When the village got a new church in 1866, the old one was set to be demolished. Priest H. Kiær rallied support and managed to save it.
A resting area with a small beach by the Fiskum Lake. Nice for warm days.
The Manor dates back to 1541. This estate laid the foundation for what was perhaps the country's first major investment in sawmill operations and timber trade with Europe. Today it´s a historical gem for the whole family with museum, café and arrangements.
In the old premises of Vestfos Cellulose Factory, there is now an art museum and café. The factory was established in 1886 and closed in 1970.
A charter boat that operates on the lake between Vestfossen and Eidsfoss, offering a view of the historic landscape from the waterside.
Medieval Church with roots back to 13th century.
The museum showcases the history of Nøstetangen Glassworks from 1741 to 1777, Norway's first glassworks. Adjacent to the museum is Skriverparken, featuring large old trees, hedges, and sculptures.
Historic farm located between Hokksund and Krokstadelva, first mentioned in 1417. The farm features a unique collection of horse-drawn carriages and bronze horses in the courtyard.
Sculptor Nic Schiøll's representation of St. Hallvard adorns the front of Oslo City Hall facing the fjord.
Christiania's first town hall, built in 1641 with support from King Christian IV, served as a town hall until 1733. It has housed a wine cellar, festivities, a district court, a council chamber, and a jail. Today, the building is home to restaurant Gamle Raadhus.
The museum showcases the magnificent Hoen-treasure from the Viking Age.