Eggedal: Målargutua and Cultural History

Eggedal brings together an artistic history, hiking trails and historic sites. Målargutua is an approximately ten-kilometre route between the former homes of Theodor Kittelsen and Christian Skredsvig; Eggedal Mølle, Galleri Skredsvig and Eggedal kirke each add their own character. You can shape your stay around hiking, art history or local history.

Målargutua: Walk between artists’ homes

Målargutua runs between Kittelsen’s former home at Sole (1896–1899) and Skredsvig’s former home, Hagan (1894–1924), passing Eggedal Mølle. The trail starts between Eggedal centre and Hagan. It winds for about 10 km through idyllic scenery, passing several well-known motifs. Along the route, there are information boards and places to rest and take a break.

A hiking trail between Eggedal centre and Eggedal Mølle was established in 2026. Trail conditions can vary, so check them before setting out. The combination of scenery, motifs and artists’ homes makes this route especially appealing if you want to pair a hike with cultural points of interest.

Art, a mill and architectural history

Since opening in 2016, Galleri Skredsvig in Hagan has presented changing annual themed exhibitions featuring art by Christian Skredsvig. The programme may change; if you want to see a particular exhibition, check the current programme in advance. Eggedal Mølle opened as a museum in 1997 after extensive restoration. You can see how grain is processed into flour there; it is also considered Norway’s last water-powered mill.

In the centre of Eggedal stands Eggedal kirke, built in 1878. It is a listed church and a landmark classified as a cultural monument of historical significance by the Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage. Nastadborgen, meanwhile, is a replica inspired by castle and palace culture from the 12th to the 18th century. Visits must be booked in advance; arrange your booking if you are planning a visit.

Winter trails and activities in Sigdal

In winter, there are groomed cross-country ski trails in the area around Eggedal. Most are set in impressive scenery at elevations of 700 to 1,100 m and connect to the Norefjell trail network. For specific winter dates, it is worth checking the latest trail status.

In the municipality of Sigdal, Sigdal Aktiv offers rafting, stand-up paddleboarding, cycling, kayaking and team-building for businesses, groups and individuals; the activities on offer may change. Seasonal activities also include a paddle trip along the Eggedøla to the Solevatn nature reserve.

The wider Sigdal destination

The cultural sites in the wider Sigdal destination offer other points of interest too. The Sigdal Museum in Prestfoss is an open-air and cultural history museum founded in 1940. The museum houses Folkemusikksenteret i Buskerud, a centre for folk music and folk dance. The museum grounds are accessible whether or not the museum itself is open; the museum is open year-round by appointment. Arrange your visit before you arrive.

Lauvlia was Theodor Kittelsen’s home and opened as a museum in 1995. Activities designed for children include a children’s trail, painting at an easel and boat-building; the programme may vary by season. Lauvlia also serves Sigdalskling, freshly baked waffles with sour cream and homemade raspberry jam, as well as traditional coffee-time treats such as Bringebærsnipp. Food offerings may vary by season.

When looking for a holiday rental in Eggedal, it helps to first decide what kind of trip you want: would you like to focus on Målargutua and Eggedal’s cultural sites, or include options in the wider Sigdal destination too?

Discover more destinations: Prestfoss, Nedre Eggedal.

To the wider travel overview: Sigdal.