Oslo – Kongsberg

The first section of Kunstnerleden takes you from Oslo along the Oslofjord and through historic towns, cultural landscapes and forests towards Kongsberg. Along the way, you will discover places associated with famous artists, art museums and centuries of Norwegian history.

Leaving Oslo, the route follows the coast past Vækerø and continues towards Henie Onstad Art Centre, beautifully situated by the fjord. In Sandvika, you can explore places associated with Claude Monet, who spent the winter of 1895 painting the local landscape, including the old Løkke Bridge. Further west, the route passes through Asker, where the Artists’ Valley and Asker Museum reflect the area’s rich artistic heritage.

Beyond Asker, the route continues through forests and rural landscapes towards Lier and Drammen. Along the way, you pass historic farms, old roads and cultural landmarks, including Lier Open Air Museum. Drammen offers a pleasant stop by the river, with cafés, restaurants and several interesting cultural attractions. Further west, Vestfossen is known for its contemporary art scene, while nearby Fossesholm Manor provides a glimpse into the region’s history.

The route mainly follows the historic Silver Road between Oslo and Kongsberg, with some deviations and the last stretch towards Kongsberg includes passing old bridges and farmland. Kongsberg is particularly known for its silver mining heritage, with the Norwegian Mining Museum, Lågdals Museum and Kongsberg Church among its main attractions. The town marks the end of the first section of Kunstnerleden, before the journey continues towards Rjukan and separates in a Western and Eastern Route. Accomodations may be found in Asker, Drammen, Hokksund and Kongsberg.