A Glimpse Into Norwegian Viking History and Norse Mythology While Traveling From Gjovik to Oslo

After having breakfast, take a short walk to Gjovik Gard, a historic park right in the center of Gjovik. It was an actual farm in the 15th century, and it kept on living under different families until 1950s, when it was given to the municipality.
There is a historic farmhouse behind the garden, and Gjovik Gard continues to be an important cultural center for the city. The plant selection of the garden is actually based on the historic landscape design of the garden, and it was part of the reconstruction plan. Enjoy the beautiful atmosphere and tranquility of the place before hitting the road.

Head back to your hotel to pick up your car and start your journey. Today will be an active day of exploration and driving along the impressive landscapes of Norway and witnessing spectacular views and authentic Norwegian villages.

Gol is a must-see city in Norway and you can also charge your car at its most famous attraction. There are also restrooms and a shopping facility if you need.
Type: CCS 4 stations, 4 plugs Power: 150 kW

This park with a Viking theme showcases Norway in the Middle Ages. It's a viking city, you can walk around and admire the infamous Gol stave church. Although it's a replica of the original church from the 13th century, it's stunning and worth a visit.
Enjoy the Viking buildings and exhibitions on site while you learn about the history of Gol. This open air museum contains well-preserved historic structures as well.
The museum's opening hours vary by season. Therefore, it's best to check with the property via phone +4740720410 or email post@hallingresort.no.

After you visit the open air museum, head back to your car and continue your journey.

Just before your lunch break, stop briefly to take a picture of this Troll statue, which is right on the highway. Trolls are creatures from Norse mythology, and they are believed to be living in the caves as small families. Be careful because although they are not very clever, they can be hostile to humans!

After a busy morning of driving, it's time to have a good lunch. This cute restaurant has an authentic menu and interior because its owners are from Iran and Bulgaria. The Iran carpets and chic chandeliers do make a great atmosphere. If the weather permits, there is a great small garden as well. Try the shrimp sandwich and chocolate souffle.
The restaurant is open every day until 9:00 pm.

This place is one of the best preserved Swiss-style houses of Norway, and it is full of trolls, fairy tales and architecture. The beautiful wooden structure was built in 1892. The villa is operating as a museum full of tales and adventure but unfortunately, it is only open for a short period every year.
Still, the intangible cultural heritage is there to view from the outside, and it has a great garden. Stop by this landmark and take a photo. If necessary, you can check out the opening hours on their website.

After nearly an hour of driving, you are about to discover Honefoss, the popular stop of almost all tourists that start a trip from Oslo. Park your car here and enjoy the town's attractions.

Before heading into town, set aside 15 minutes to see the Honefoss Waterfall from the terrace view point. It's also a hydroelectric power plant, which is still active. It looks beautiful and offers a good view of the river as well. You can take photos and enjoy the sight.

On your way to Honefoss city center, stop by this interesting church with an unusual architecture. Its elegant style is worth checking out and the big glass windows look astonishing. The interior is also interesting with an unconventional altar and natural light. With its unique design, this church has become the symbol of Honefoss lately.

Your next stop is right in the center of Honefoss, and it's a refurbished old jailhouse! Fengselet has a great exhibition of the local war history and the building also operates as a café/restaurant today. The building was originally a prison until 1996, and it is possible to visit the cells of the prison as well as the courtroom. It's small, but the Brasserie Fengselet makes up for it by its great service.
Have a coffee here and experience the vibrant Honefoss city center. There is outside seating if the weather is good.

It's time to continue the journey to Oslo. Hop back on your car and head South to have dinner before arriving to Oslo.

En route to Oslo, there is a small but charming medieval church called Norderhov Church. Dating back to the 12th century, it offers a glimpse to the religion history of the country. It has been restored many times, and it looks like a postcard. The church's pulpit is one of the oldest in Norway, dating back to 1582.
You'll stop here only to take a short look at the structure and admire the historic landmark. Wander around the garden to enjoy the typical Norwegian church.

Before going back to Oslo, you'll have an exquisite dinner at this centuries-old hotel. You'll find this hotel just after passing Kroksund Bridge, which is a historic stone bridge on the Old Royal Bergen Road. In the summer, locals love fishing here.
Your meal at Sundvolden Hotel will be prepared with fresh and local ingredients from local farms. Offering exciting views next to a fjord, the hotel is a true combination of the old and new.
You can check their menu and make a reservation here.
After finishing your dinner, jump back in your vehicle and continue onwards to Oslo.