Family Adventure in the Historic Town of Røros

Echoes of the Past

Today was a day dedicated to immersing ourselves in the rich history and cultural heritage of Røros. We explored the town's fascinating past, from its vibrant newspaper industry to its dedication to preserving traditional building techniques. It was a journey through time that left me with a deeper appreciation for this unique Norwegian town.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Trygstad bakery and confectionery. The aroma of freshly baked goods filled the air, and we indulged in some delicious pastries and strong coffee. Clara especially loved her cinnamon bun, declaring it the best she’d ever had. It’s moments like these, sharing simple pleasures with my family, that make our travels so special. It's always a treat to find local bakeries that put so much love into their craft. The reviews I read beforehand were spot on - it's a must-visit in Røros!


Experience authentic Norwegian pastries at Trygstad Bakery & Confectionery in historic Røros – a treat for every traveler!

With our appetites satisfied, we set off to explore the Pressemuseet Fjeld-Ljom. This museum is housed in the original premises of the Fjeld-Ljom newspaper, which operated from 1886 until the mid-1970s. Stepping inside was like stepping back in time. The museum showcases the original editorial office, typesetting, and printing departments, all preserved in their original condition. I was particularly fascinated by the old printing presses and typesetting machines. It’s incredible to think that newspapers were once produced using such intricate and labor-intensive methods.


Explore the rich history of journalism and its influence on Røros at the Pressemuseet Fjeld-Ljom, a captivating museum experience.

Maximilian, with his engineering background, was especially intrigued by the mechanics of the printing equipment. He spent a good amount of time examining the Linotype and Intertype machines, marveling at their complexity. Clara, on the other hand, was captivated by the stories of the newspaper's founder, Olaf O. Berg, and its role in the local community. I learned that Fjeld-Ljom mixed local news with social-radical politics, causing opposition from the local establishment. Several prominent Norwegian authors contributed to it, among them Johan Falkberget and Arne Garborg. It’s amazing to think of the paper's impact in such a remote location.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

After spending a couple of hours at the newspaper museum, we headed to Rørosmuseet Bygningsvernsenteret. This preservation center is dedicated to the restoration and conservation of historical buildings. It promotes the use of traditional building methods through information, workshops, and consultancy services. As someone with an interest in sustainability and traditional crafts, I was eager to learn more.


Discover authentic Norwegian craftsmanship and the rich heritage of Røros at Rørosmuseet Bygningsvernsenteret, a must-visit craft store and tourist attraction.

The center is located in Kurantgården, right beside Røros Museum Smelthytta. We learned that the Bygningsvernsenteret plays a crucial role in preserving the architectural heritage of Røros, a UNESCO World Heritage site. They offer courses and seminars for carpenters, teachers, museum craftsmen, and anyone interested in learning more about conservation and restoration techniques. They also have an Antiquarian Workshop that provides restoration expertise for repairing windows, doors, paneling, and other historical architectural details. It’s inspiring to see such dedication to preserving the past for future generations.

I was particularly impressed by the center's commitment to using traditional methods and materials. They believe that these techniques are not only more sustainable but also more authentic and respectful of the original buildings. It reminded me of the traditional Icelandic sweaters, the Lopapeysa, that I love to knit. Just as those sweaters are made with time-honored techniques and natural materials, the Bygningsvernsenteret strives to preserve buildings in a way that honors their history and craftsmanship.

For lunch, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Frøyas Hus. This cozy cafeteria is housed in a historic 18th-century timber building, offering a unique and charming atmosphere. The menu features local delicacies made from fresh ingredients. I opted for a traditional Norwegian soup, while Maximilian enjoyed a hearty sandwich. Clara, of course, chose a sweet pastry. The reviews I read highlighted the homemade pastries, and they did not disappoint! Frøyas Hus is more than just a cafeteria; it’s a place where you can experience the warmth and hospitality of Røros. It was the perfect spot to relax and refuel after our morning of exploring.


Discover Frøyas Hus in Røros – A cozy cafeteria offering delicious local cuisine amidst stunning historical surroundings.

As the afternoon progressed, we decided to take a stroll through the town, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the well-preserved wooden buildings. Røros is a truly unique place, with a rich history and a strong sense of community. It’s easy to see why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. The colorful wooden houses, the charming streets, and the stunning natural surroundings all contribute to its special character. It felt like walking through a living museum.

Before dinner, we decided to stop by Skanckebua Bar & Restaurant for a quick drink. The bar has a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of local beers. I opted for a refreshing Norwegian ale, while Maximilian tried a local craft beer. Clara enjoyed a glass of juice. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. Skanckebua is known for its cozy ambiance and friendly service, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. We only stayed for one drink, but it was enough to get a sense of its vibrant atmosphere.


Experience the authentic flavors of Norway at Skanckebua Bar & Restaurant, a standout gastropub in the heart of Røros.

For dinner, we chose Nilsenhjørnet, a restaurant known for its traditional Norwegian cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with soft lighting and rustic décor. I ordered a traditional reindeer dish, while Maximilian opted for a fish dish. Clara, being Clara, chose the children's menu. The food was delicious and well-prepared, showcasing the flavors of the region. The service was also excellent, with the staff being attentive and friendly.


Discover the warmth and charm of Nilsenhjørnet, Røros' beloved bar offering local drinks and a cozy atmosphere for all travelers.

After dinner, we took a final stroll through the town, enjoying the peace and quiet of the evening. The streets were mostly empty, and the only sound was the gentle murmur of the river. It was a perfect way to end a perfect day. As we walked back to Vertshuset Røros, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this unique and special place with my family.


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

As I reflect on today, I’m struck by the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. The Pressemuseet Fjeld-Ljom and the Rørosmuseet Bygningsvernsenteret are both doing vital work in preserving the past for future generations. It’s up to us to support these efforts and to ensure that these stories and traditions are not forgotten.

Tomorrow, our last day in Røros, we plan to visit Reinsbukken and Seterveien AS, before heading to Domus Shopping Roros for some last-minute souvenirs. We’ll also enjoy breakfast at Gjetbergsvollen Restaurant and lunch and dinner at Bergstadens Hotel and Røros Hotell, respectively. It’s bittersweet to think that our adventure is coming to an end, but I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings.

“We do not remember days, we remember moments.” This quote by Cesare Pavese perfectly encapsulates my experience today. It wasn't just about seeing historical sites; it was about the moments we shared as a family, the stories we learned, and the connections we made with this special place. These are the memories that we will cherish long after we leave Røros. Goodnight from Røros!