Exploring the Historic Charm of Røros with Friends

Echoes of the Past

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Røros, a town that feels like stepping back in time. With my friends by my side, I was eager to explore the historical layers of this UNESCO World Heritage site, blending the stories of its past with the flavors of its present. It’s amazing how much history can be packed into one small town, and I couldn’t wait to uncover it all.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Trygstad Coffee House. Lena always says I have a nose for the best coffee in town, and this place didn't disappoint. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the sweet scent of pastries, creating a cozy atmosphere that was hard to leave. I opted for a strong black coffee and a traditional Norwegian pastry called a *wienerbrød*, a flaky, sweet delight that gave me the perfect energy boost for the day ahead. The others enjoyed milkshakes and waffles, declaring them the best they’d ever had. It was the perfect start, setting a warm and cheerful tone for our explorations. It reminded me of the little *kaffees* back in Heidelberg, where Lena and I often spend our Sunday mornings.


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

Fueled and ready, we set out to explore Sleggveien. This street, as I learned, offers a glimpse into the social history of Røros's mining community. The colorful wooden buildings, dating back to the 17th century, were a sight to behold. Each house seemed to whisper stories of the families who once lived there – the day laborers, craftsmen, and even the less fortunate who sought work in the copper mines. As a photography enthusiast, I was in my element, capturing the intricate details of the architecture and the vibrant hues of the buildings against the backdrop of the clear September sky. The crisp air and the gentle sunlight made it a photographer’s dream. I could already imagine the photos I would share on my blog, hoping to inspire others to visit this charming street.


Explore the enchanting Sleggveien in Røros, Norway – a historic street filled with charming architecture, local culture, and rich heritage.

The beauty of Røros lies not just in its picturesque landscapes, but in the stories etched into its very foundations.

Next on our itinerary was Smelthytta, the Røros Museum’s main building, which stands on the ruins of the copper works' last smelter. This was the heart of Røros's mining operations for over 300 years, and stepping inside felt like entering a time capsule. The exhibitions vividly depicted the history of the Røros Copper Works, showcasing models of mines, smelters, and technical installations. I was particularly fascinated by the miniature models created by Sverre Ødegård, which brought the mining and smelting processes to life in incredible detail. Lena, always interested in local culture, was captivated by the exhibition of 19th-century formal wear from Røros, imagining the lives of the people who wore these elaborate outfits. It was a stark contrast to the rugged attire of the miners, highlighting the diverse social fabric of the town.


Explore the rich mining heritage of Røros at Smelthytta – a captivating local history museum showcasing the town's cultural significance.

Learning about the smelter's history, I discovered that it was the heart of the mining town, operating 24 hours a day except for a brief pause in mid-summer. The copper ore underwent long and demanding processes to produce the final product for export. It was incredible to think about the sheer scale of the operation and the number of people whose lives revolved around it. The original smelter was destroyed by fire multiple times, with the current structure established as a museum in 1988. The dedication to preserving this history was truly commendable.

For lunch, we decided to try Freddy's Diner, a spot recommended for its American diner-style food. It was a fun change of pace from the traditional Norwegian fare we had been sampling. I went for a classic burger and fries, while the others tried the milkshakes and pizzas. The diner had a cozy, retro atmosphere, reminiscent of the 1950s, with friendly staff and good service. It was a bit of a novelty to find an American diner in the middle of Norway, but it added to the quirky charm of Røros.


Experience authentic American cuisine in Røros at Freddy's Diner - where comfort food meets local charm.

As the afternoon waned, we sought out a local watering hole for a taste of Røros's nightlife. Berkel og Bar caught our eye, and we decided to stop in for a drink. The bar had a relaxed, informal vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. We sampled some local beers and chatted with the friendly bartenders, who shared stories about the town and its residents. It was a great way to connect with the local culture and get a sense of the community spirit.


Experience the essence of Norwegian cuisine at Røros' Berkel og Bar, where local flavors meet a cozy gastropub atmosphere.

Dinner was at Skanckebua Bar & Restaurant, a lively gastropub in the heart of Røros. This place is known for its soul and atmosphere, offering a mix of traditional and modern dishes. The cozy bar upstairs had a great view of Kjerkgata, and the downstairs area, including the Sewing Room and Butter Basement, added to the unique charm. I opted for a reindeer dish, wanting to experience the local cuisine, while the others tried the fish and vegetarian options. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. It was the perfect end to a day filled with exploration and discovery.


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

After dinner, we strolled back to Bergstadens Hotel, our cozy base for this adventure. The hotel's central location made it easy to explore the town, and its comfortable amenities provided a welcome respite after a long day. As I settled into my room, I reflected on the day's experiences, feeling grateful for the opportunity to explore this unique and charming town with my friends. Røros had exceeded my expectations, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that was truly captivating.


Discover the charm of Roros at Bergstadens Hotel, your cozy retreat with modern amenities, perfect for adventurers and families alike.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kvitsanden landskapsvernområde and Pressemuseet Fjeld-Ljom. I’m particularly excited about Kvitsanden; I read it is known for its unique landscape. And the Pressemuseet Fjeld-Ljom, dedicated to the history of the local newspaper, sounds quite interesting as well. We’ll start the day with breakfast at Trygstad bakery and confectionery, followed by lunch at Peder Hiort Mathus and dinner at Restaurant 1897. A visit to Lysgaard Ceramics is also on the cards, hoping to find some unique souvenirs. It promises to be another day filled with exploration and discovery, and I can’t wait to see what Røros has in store for us.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a note to find a portable charger when we get back to Germany. My camera battery barely lasted through the day, and I don’t want to miss any photo opportunities tomorrow. It’s a lesson learned – always remember the essentials!

Røros is more than just a town; it's a living, breathing testament to the past, with a vibrant present and a promising future. I feel privileged to have experienced a small part of its story, and I look forward to sharing more of my adventures with you tomorrow.