Exploring the Historic Charm of Røros with Friends

Desert Sands and Printing Presses

Today was a fascinating blend of natural wonders, historical insights, and, of course, delicious food. Røros continues to surprise and delight, proving that there's always something new to discover, even in a town I thought I was beginning to know. It’s days like these that make traveling with friends so rewarding, sharing unexpected experiences and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Trygstad bakery and confectionery. The aroma of freshly baked goods filled the air as we stepped inside, a comforting start to what promised to be an adventurous day. I opted for a traditional Norwegian pastry, a sweet cinnamon roll that was the perfect balance of spice and sweetness. Fuelled up, we set off to explore Kvitsanden landskapsvernområde, a unique landscape just a short distance from the town center.


Explore the stunning sand dunes and diverse ecosystems of Kvitsanden Landscape Protection Area near Røros, Norway.

Kvitsanden, often called Norway's inland desert, is a landscape unlike anything I’ve seen before. As we approached, the scenery transformed from the charming wooden buildings of Røros to rolling sand dunes, a stark contrast that felt almost surreal. The fine sand, remnants of the last ice age, stretched out before us, creating an otherworldly vista. We spent a good couple of hours wandering through the dunes, snapping photos and marveling at the unique flora and fauna that have adapted to this environment. I even spotted some rare insect species, tiny creatures thriving in this seemingly barren landscape. It was fascinating to learn about the area's history; how deforestation for the copperworks exposed the sands to the elements, creating the desert-like conditions we see today.

“Sometimes, the most unexpected landscapes hold the most captivating stories.”

After our desert excursion, we headed to Pressemuseet Fjeld-Ljom, a museum dedicated to the history of the local newspaper. As a brewery technician, I appreciate the mechanics and history of processes, and this museum was right up my alley. The museum is housed in the original newspaper building, complete with vintage printing presses and typesetting equipment. It was incredible to see how newspapers were produced in the old days, with meticulous hand-setting of type and laborious printing processes. The museum staff gave us a demonstration, showing how they still produce newspapers using the traditional methods. It felt like stepping back in time, a tangible connection to the past that brought the history of Røros to life.


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

Lunch was at Peder Hiort Mathus, a restaurant located in the Bergstadens Hotel. The restaurant has a cozy, intimate atmosphere, decorated with historical artifacts and photographs from Røros' mining history. I opted for a traditional Norwegian dish, reindeer stew, which was rich, hearty, and full of flavor. It was the perfect meal to warm us up after our time in the dunes and a satisfying taste of local cuisine. My friends and I shared stories of our travels, Lena and Sophie were definitely missed, and made plans for the days ahead, already excited about what tomorrow would bring.


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

In the afternoon, we explored Lysgaard Ceramics, a local shop showcasing the work of ceramic artist Per Lysgaard. His pieces are unique and vibrant, reflecting the artistic spirit of Røros. I was particularly impressed by his stoneware sculptures, each one a testament to his skill and creativity. I ended up buying a small, hand-painted bowl as a souvenir, a little piece of Røros to bring back home to Heidelberg.


Discover the exquisite craftsmanship of Lysgaard Ceramics in Røros, where tradition meets artistry in stunning handmade pottery.

For dinner, we decided to try Restaurant 1897, located in our very own Bergstadens Hotel. The restaurant focuses on seasonal and local ingredients, creating dishes that highlight the flavors of the region. I chose the chef's recommendation, a three-course meal that was a culinary journey through Røros. Each dish was expertly prepared and beautifully presented, a true celebration of Norwegian cuisine. I paired my meal with a local craft beer, a hoppy IPA that complemented the flavors perfectly. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it a perfect end to a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine in Røros at Restaurant 1897 - where local ingredients meet tradition.

As I sit here writing this, I can’t help but feel grateful for the experiences today has offered. From the unexpected beauty of Kvitsanden to the historical insights at Pressemuseet Fjeld-Ljom and the culinary delights at Peder Hiort Mathus and Restaurant 1897, Røros continues to captivate and inspire. It is a town that seamlessly blends history, nature, and culture, creating a unique and unforgettable travel destination.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into the mining history of Røros with a visit to Mølmannsdalen and Kongens Gruve. I’m particularly excited to explore the mines and learn more about the town’s copper mining past. Perhaps we’ll even stop by Nilsenhjørnet for a nightcap after a day of underground exploration. I’m looking forward to another day of adventure with my friends, discovering more of what Røros has to offer.