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A Different Kind of Holiday Blues at Blaafarvevaerket
Norway is a land of dramatic mountains, deep fjords, the midnight sun and the northern lights, but one of Norway’s most visited tourist destinations lies below the surface just fifteen minutes from Tyrifjord Hotell. At Blaafarvevaerket , or the ‘Blue Colour Works’ you’ll not only discover more than 200 years of Norwegian history in the Cobalt Mines, but one of the most important art galleries in Scandinavia.
A Brief History
The history of the mine is tied to the colour blue. Without cobalt the beautiful contrasts of Delft pottery and Chinese blue and white ceramics would not have been possible for centuries. And it was Blaafarvevaerket that was for many decades one of the most important suppliers of this special mineral. Established by Norway’s ruling monarch in the late 1700’s Blaafarvevaerket had a period of tremendous success for several decades, at one point even supplying 80% of the world’s cobalt pigments. Introduction of synthetic alternatives led to a sharp decline in profits, and despite its rich history, by the mid 1800's the mine had all but ceased in its cobalt supply.
The Mine
Explore the three kilometres of shafts and tunnels with a tour of the mine for both adults and children. The adults tour (it’s suitable for anyone over 10) includes not only the opportunity to learn the history of this attraction, but two unique experiences. The Glück Auf Strosse suspension bridge allows you to cross 32 metres into the centre vein of the ore, while a glass floor crossing through the Edvard Shaft allows for a one-of-a-kind perspective into the heart of the mountain. A separate children’s tour allows even little ones to experience the mines at Blaafarvevaerket.
Art Attraction
A collection of restored homes, a shop housing an incomparably large collection of cobalt pieces, as well as inside and outside art installations make Blaafarvevaerket even more special. Works by artists like this years exhibitionist Mathilde Dietrichson, to artists like Ida Lorentzen, Lul Krag, Lillebet Foss and others ensures a mix of contemporary and classic pieces and mediums all presented with a uniquely Scandinavian voice.
Falling In Love
Without water-power the Cobalt Works would have never been possible, so it is suitable that a highlight of any trip to Blaafarvevaerket includes a walk below, beside and above the impressive Haugfossen waterfall. A purpose designed trail leads you to a choice of photo-worthy viewpoints that give you a very real sense of the power of the falls. Stop for coffee in the cafe above the falls or to purchase a memento of your trip and cross the Simoa River on the recently restored 1837 Haugfoss Bridge, or if you have the strength, grab your friends and pull yourself across on the muscle-powered raft.
Children’s Farm
An always popular part of the Blaafarvevaerket experience is the Children’s Farm. This animal haven includes all the kids favourite farmyard residents with a special opportunity for kids to get up close and interact in a natural and welcoming setting.
A Taste of Home
Make time for a visit to the Barrelmaker’s Inn on the banks of the river. Lunch and dinner are homemade and include plenty of Norwegian favourites. Even for visitors with a little less time it’s well worth heading to Blaafarvevaerket just for the coffee and lefsekling.
Stay Over, See More
With so much to explore at this Norwegian landmark, staying over will give you more time to see it all without the long drive home. Tyrifjord Hotell not only offers a welcoming homely feel with just 64 rooms it also has all your favourite at-home amenities like Wi-Fi and flat screen TV’s as well as great holiday amenities including a small private beach, marina, sauna and hiking trails.
A Brief History
The history of the mine is tied to the colour blue. Without cobalt the beautiful contrasts of Delft pottery and Chinese blue and white ceramics would not have been possible for centuries. And it was Blaafarvevaerket that was for many decades one of the most important suppliers of this special mineral. Established by Norway’s ruling monarch in the late 1700’s Blaafarvevaerket had a period of tremendous success for several decades, at one point even supplying 80% of the world’s cobalt pigments. Introduction of synthetic alternatives led to a sharp decline in profits, and despite its rich history, by the mid 1800's the mine had all but ceased in its cobalt supply.
The Mine
Explore the three kilometres of shafts and tunnels with a tour of the mine for both adults and children. The adults tour (it’s suitable for anyone over 10) includes not only the opportunity to learn the history of this attraction, but two unique experiences. The Glück Auf Strosse suspension bridge allows you to cross 32 metres into the centre vein of the ore, while a glass floor crossing through the Edvard Shaft allows for a one-of-a-kind perspective into the heart of the mountain. A separate children’s tour allows even little ones to experience the mines at Blaafarvevaerket.
Art Attraction
A collection of restored homes, a shop housing an incomparably large collection of cobalt pieces, as well as inside and outside art installations make Blaafarvevaerket even more special. Works by artists like this years exhibitionist Mathilde Dietrichson, to artists like Ida Lorentzen, Lul Krag, Lillebet Foss and others ensures a mix of contemporary and classic pieces and mediums all presented with a uniquely Scandinavian voice.
Falling In Love
Without water-power the Cobalt Works would have never been possible, so it is suitable that a highlight of any trip to Blaafarvevaerket includes a walk below, beside and above the impressive Haugfossen waterfall. A purpose designed trail leads you to a choice of photo-worthy viewpoints that give you a very real sense of the power of the falls. Stop for coffee in the cafe above the falls or to purchase a memento of your trip and cross the Simoa River on the recently restored 1837 Haugfoss Bridge, or if you have the strength, grab your friends and pull yourself across on the muscle-powered raft.
Children’s Farm
An always popular part of the Blaafarvevaerket experience is the Children’s Farm. This animal haven includes all the kids favourite farmyard residents with a special opportunity for kids to get up close and interact in a natural and welcoming setting.
A Taste of Home
Make time for a visit to the Barrelmaker’s Inn on the banks of the river. Lunch and dinner are homemade and include plenty of Norwegian favourites. Even for visitors with a little less time it’s well worth heading to Blaafarvevaerket just for the coffee and lefsekling.
Stay Over, See More
With so much to explore at this Norwegian landmark, staying over will give you more time to see it all without the long drive home. Tyrifjord Hotell not only offers a welcoming homely feel with just 64 rooms it also has all your favourite at-home amenities like Wi-Fi and flat screen TV’s as well as great holiday amenities including a small private beach, marina, sauna and hiking trails.
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