Exploring the Historic Charm of Røros with Friends

Day 9: Farewell Røros: A Hike, a Dip, and Last Bites of Norwegian Charm

Discover Røros' serene beauty with a final hike, refreshing swim, and delicious local cuisine before bidding farewell to Norway.

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Last Day in Røros: Quintushøgda, a Chilly Dip, and Tastes to Remember


As my time in Røros draws to a close, I wanted to soak up every last bit of this charming town. Today was a mix of outdoor adventure, a brave (or foolish) plunge into local waters, and a final exploration of Røros' culinary scene. It's amazing how quickly a place can feel like home, and I'm already feeling a pang of sadness as I pack my bags. But let’s dive into the day’s adventures, shall we?

The last day of a trip always feels a bit bittersweet. On one hand, I’m excited to get back to Lena and Sophie in Heidelberg. On the other, I never want these adventures to end! After a hearty breakfast at Bergstadens Hotel, fueling up with some strong Norwegian coffee and delicious local bread, I decided to dedicate my morning to one last hike. Quintushøgda was calling my name.

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

Discover the stunning hiking trails of Quintushøgda in Røros, Norway, where nature's beauty meets adventure in the great outdoors.
Discover the stunning hiking trails of Quintushøgda in Røros, Norway, where nature's beauty meets adventure in the great outdoors.

Quintushøgda, I learned, is a local favorite for its stunning panoramic views. The hike wasn't too strenuous, which was perfect considering I wanted to save some energy for the rest of the day. The trails were well-maintained, and the crisp September air made the climb invigorating. As I ascended, the landscape opened up, revealing breathtaking views of Røros and the surrounding valleys. The vibrant autumn colors were just starting to emerge, painting the hillsides in hues of red, orange, and gold. I couldn’t resist snapping a few photos, hoping to capture the beauty to share back home. The air was so clean and crisp; it was a welcome change from the city.

I spent a good hour at the summit, simply soaking in the scenery. It’s moments like these, surrounded by nature's grandeur, that make me appreciate the simple things in life. I even made a mental note to try and incorporate more hiking into my routine back in Germany. Maybe Lena and Sophie would enjoy it too. As I started my descent, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this experience.

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.”


Next on the agenda was something a bit more… daring. My friends and I had heard about Badebrygge - Røros IL, a local swimming spot on Gjettjønna lake. Now, I’m no stranger to cold water, growing up in Canada, but the idea of swimming in a Norwegian lake in September definitely raised an eyebrow. Still, adventure called, and I wasn’t about to back down from a challenge.

Explore the stunning landscapes and serene trails of Badebrygge - Røros IL, a hiking paradise nestled by the beautiful Gjettjønna lake in Norway.
Explore the stunning landscapes and serene trails of Badebrygge - Røros IL, a hiking paradise nestled by the beautiful Gjettjønna lake in Norway.

The walk to Badebrygge was lovely, a scenic route that took us along the edge of the lake. When we arrived, the place was deserted, save for a few ducks paddling in the distance. The water looked… invitingly cold. After a bit of hesitation and some encouragement from my friends, I took the plunge. Let me tell you, it was bracing! The initial shock took my breath away, but after a few seconds, I started to feel… alive. The water was incredibly clear and clean, and the surrounding landscape was stunning. I only managed a few minutes before my teeth started chattering, but it was an exhilarating experience that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

After drying off and warming up, it was time for some retail therapy. We headed to Domus Shopping Roros, a local shopping center that promised a variety of stores. I was on the hunt for some souvenirs for Lena and Sophie, and maybe a little something for myself. Domus turned out to be a vibrant hub, with everything from clothing stores to a pharmacy and even a wine and spirits shop. I picked up a couple of hand-knitted wool sweaters for the girls, perfect for the coming winter, and a bottle of local aquavit for myself – a little taste of Norway to bring back to Heidelberg. I even popped into Kitch'n , a kitchenware shop, and eyed some new homebrewing equipment, but decided to hold off for now.

Explore the heart of Røros shopping at Domus Shopping Mall, where local charm meets modern retail in a delightful atmosphere.
Explore the heart of Røros shopping at Domus Shopping Mall, where local charm meets modern retail in a delightful atmosphere.

With souvenirs secured, it was time for our final culinary adventure in Røros. For lunch, we decided on Frøyas Hus, a charming spot known for its traditional Norwegian cuisine. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the menu was filled with local delicacies. I opted for the reindeer stew, a hearty and flavorful dish that was the perfect comfort food on a chilly day. My friends tried the *rømmegrøt* (sour cream porridge) and the *lefse* (a soft flatbread), and we all agreed that the food was outstanding. It was a wonderful way to savor the local flavors one last time.

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

As evening approached, our final dinner was at Trollkroa, a restaurant located a short drive from Røros in Os. Trollkroa is known for its diverse menu, offering everything from pizza and pasta to burgers and traditional Norwegian dishes. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming vibe, and we were seated in their newer winter garden, which Deniz Celik built in 2022. I decided to try their locally sourced fish, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. It was a delicious end to our culinary journey in Røros.

Experience authentic Norwegian flavors at Trollkroa in Østerdalen - where tradition meets modern cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty.
Experience authentic Norwegian flavors at Trollkroa in Østerdalen - where tradition meets modern cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I had come to appreciate Røros. It's a town that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. The friendly locals, the stunning landscapes, and the unique culinary experiences have left an indelible mark on my heart. As I packed my bags, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible adventure. It was a reminder that sometimes, the best experiences are found in the most unexpected places.

Tomorrow, we head back to Oslo, and then it’s back to Germany. While I’m looking forward to seeing Lena and Sophie, I’ll definitely miss the charm and tranquility of Røros. This trip has not only been a wonderful escape but also a source of inspiration for my brewing hobby. I'm already brainstorming new beer recipes inspired by the flavors of Norway!

And who knows, maybe we’ll be back someday, perhaps even for Rørosmartnan , the traditional winter market. Until then, *farvel*, Røros. You’ve been a treat.

Oh, and I almost forgot! I managed to find a charging station at Domus , so I won’t have to worry about the portable charger I forgot. But I really wish I had remembered my raincoat. September in Norway can be quite unpredictable!
Go to day 8 Wandering Through Røros: Cycling Adventures and Culinary Delights
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Exploring the Historic Charm of Røros with Friends

Join us on a 9-day exploration of Røros, Norway, a UNESCO site rich in history and beauty, perfect for photography and cultural discovery.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Michael Thompson
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Brewery Technician
  • Country icon Country: Germany
  • Age icon Age: 34

Servus! I'm Michael, a Canadian expat living in Heidelberg, Germany, with my wife, Lena, and our daughter, Sophie. I'm a brewery technician by trade, but my true passion lies in exploring new places, savoring delicious beers, and capturing it all through my lens. Join me as I share my travel experiences, from the charming corners of Germany to adventures further afield. Whether you're planning a family trip or seeking inspiration for your own travels, I hope my stories and tips will help you create unforgettable memories.

Interests:
  • Craft Beer
  • Hiking
  • Photography
  • Canadian History
  • German Culture
More about Michael Thompson

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    Discover the charm of Røros at Bergstadens Hotel - where comfort meets cultural heritage amidst breathtaking landscapes.

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  • Domus Shopping Roros

    Explore the heart of Røros shopping at Domus Shopping Mall, where local charm meets modern retail in a delightful atmosphere.

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