Family Adventure in the Historic Town of Røros

A Day of Discovery in Røros

Today was a fascinating dive into the heart of Røros, a day filled with historical exploration, culinary delights, and charming local discoveries. From the depths of a copper mine to the warmth of a traditional coffee house, Røros continued to enchant us with its unique blend of history and culture. It’s days like these that remind me why I love sharing these experiences with my family and all of you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Trygstad Coffee House. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, a perfect start to a day of exploration. This place has been a Røros institution since 1906, and you can feel the history in every bite of their pastries. Maximilian opted for a traditional Norwegian pastry, while Clara devoured a cinnamon bun with glee. I enjoyed a strong cup of coffee, savoring the moment before our adventurous day truly began. It's amazing how a simple breakfast can set the tone for a day filled with discovery.


Experience the warmth and charm of Trygstad Coffee House in Røros – where exceptional coffee meets local flavors in a cozy setting.

Journey into the Depths of Rørosmuseet Olavsgruva

Our first major stop was the Rørosmuseet Olavsgruva, a copper mine that offers a glimpse into the town's rich mining history. As we descended into the depths of the earth, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the miners who toiled here for centuries. The temperature dropped noticeably, and the air grew heavy with the scent of damp earth and minerals.


Explore Norway's mining legacy at Rørosmuseet Olavsgruva, a historical museum in Glåmos showcasing the rich heritage of the region.

The guided tour was incredibly informative. Our guide shared stories of the miners' lives, the challenges they faced, and the innovations they developed to extract the valuable copper ore. Clara was particularly fascinated by the narrow tunnels and the tools the miners used. I found myself reflecting on the sheer determination and resilience of these individuals who shaped the town's identity. The mine itself is a constant 5°C, so the warm layers we packed definitely came in handy. I even wished I hadn't forgotten my Icelandic Lopapeysa back in Dresden, though I'm sure I'll have plenty of opportunities to wear it later in the trip. One thing I'd recommend to anyone planning a visit is to wear sturdy, waterproof shoes. Parts of the mine are quite slippery, and you wouldn't want to ruin your favorite pair of sneakers.

Visiting the Olavsgruva is like stepping back in time, offering a profound connection to the hardworking individuals who shaped Røros into the unique town it is today.

Exploring Smelthytta: A Glimpse into Copper Production

After emerging from the depths of Olavsgruva, we headed to Smelthytta, another part of the Rørosmuseet. This museum is built on the ruins of the Røros Copper Work's last smelter, which burned down in 1975. Inside, we found exhibitions detailing the history of copper production in Røros, complete with intricate models of mines, smelters, and technical installations. These models gave us a clear understanding of how the mining operations were carried out, and Clara was particularly captivated by the miniature representations of the workers and machinery.


Discover the cultural heritage of Røros at Smelthytta, a local history museum showcasing the rich traditions and stories of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

The In Their Finery exhibition, showcasing 19th-century clothing from Røros, offered a fascinating contrast to the ruggedness of the mining exhibits. It was intriguing to see how the people of Røros dressed for special occasions, and it provided a glimpse into the social life of the town during that era. Maximilian, ever the history enthusiast, was engrossed in reading the informational panels, while Clara admired the intricate details of the garments.

Lunch at Peder Hiort Mathus: A Taste of Local Flavors

By lunchtime, we were all ravenous, so we made our way to Peder Hiort Mathus for a taste of local cuisine. This family restaurant, located in the Bergmannsfløyen of the Bergstadens Hotel, boasts a cozy and intimate atmosphere, adorned with artifacts and photographs from Røros's mining history. The menu offered a variety of options, from traditional Norwegian dishes to international fare, ensuring there was something for everyone.


Discover the authentic flavors of Norway at Peder Hiort Mathus in Røros - where tradition meets contemporary cuisine.

Maximilian opted for the reindeer burger, a local specialty, while Clara chose a classic pizza from the children's menu. I decided to try the marinated reinskav from Stensaasen, served in homemade pita bread with salad, tomato, red onion, and lingonberry sour cream. The flavors were exquisite, a perfect blend of savory and tangy that left me wanting more. The restaurant's ambiance added to the experience, making it a truly memorable meal.

Shopping for Souvenirs at Rørosrypan

After lunch, we strolled through the charming streets of Røros, eventually finding ourselves at Rørosrypan, a local clothing store known for blending traditional designs with modern flair. I was immediately drawn to the shop's quaint atmosphere and the unique selection of apparel. Clara, of course, was captivated by the colorful children's clothing, while I admired the intricate details of the traditional Norwegian sweaters.


Explore Rørosrypan for stylish clothing that blends tradition with modern flair in the heart of Røros, Norway.

I ended up purchasing a beautiful hand-knitted scarf, a perfect memento of our time in Røros. The friendly staff were incredibly helpful, sharing stories about the local artisans and the history behind the designs. It's these kinds of personal touches that make shopping in small towns so much more rewarding than visiting large department stores.

Dinner and Drinks at Skanckebua Bar & Restaurant

As the day drew to a close, we decided to have dinner at Skanckebua Bar & Restaurant, a gastropub with a lively atmosphere and a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is housed in a historic building with three floors, each offering a unique ambiance. We chose to sit on the main floor, where we could soak in the vibrant energy of the place.


Discover authentic Norwegian cuisine at Skanckebua Bar & Restaurant in Røros - where tradition meets taste in a cozy gastropub setting.

Maximilian and I both ordered the fish and chips, while Clara opted for the kids' menu burger. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. Skanckebua is known for its extensive selection of local beers and handcrafted cocktails, so I couldn't resist trying one of their signature drinks. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.

The atmosphere at Skanckebua was warm and inviting, and we found ourselves chatting with some of the locals, exchanging stories and laughter. It's these kinds of interactions that make traveling so enriching, allowing us to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Reflections on a Day Well Spent

As we walked back to our hotel, Vertshuset Røros, under the soft glow of the evening sky, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day we had experienced. Røros had once again exceeded our expectations, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights.


Discover the charm of Vertshuset Røros, your perfect base for exploring the historic town of Røros, with cozy accommodations and local cuisine.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Kvitsanden landskapsvernområde and Badebrygge - Røros IL, which I am sure will give us a different, but equally exciting, perspective on the area. I'm also looking forward to trying Bakeriet på Røros for breakfast, Freddy's Diner for lunch, and Bari restaurant Røros for dinner. And perhaps, if time allows, we'll sneak in a visit to Berkel og Bar for a nightcap.

Before I sign off for the night, I must admit that I am incredibly grateful for these opportunities to explore the world with my family. These are the moments that create lasting memories, and I cherish every single one of them. I hope that by sharing our experiences, I can inspire you to embark on your own adventures and discover the beauty and wonder that our world has to offer. Until tomorrow, happy travels!

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I’m reminded of something my grandmother used to say:

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

And with that, I bid you goodnight from the enchanting town of Røros. I can’t wait to share more of our adventures with you tomorrow.