Jevnaker muncipality has approximately 6.260 inhabitants and covers a area of 224,0 km2. Farming and forestry have always been important for settling and employment in Jevnaker. Recreation and peace and quiet as a part of the health programme are still very important — and become constantly more important for those who live in densely populated areas with a high degree of pollution. Environmental protection and “green tourism” are important concepts. We must use nature for recreation, and at the same time also preserve it as an invaluable resource. Jevnaker is located to the southern and western side of the Randsfjord.
HADELAND
Hadeland is a traditional district in the south-eastern part of Norway. It is located around the southern part of lake Randsfjorden, and consists of the municipalities of Gran, Jevnaker and Lunner. Hadeland occupies the area north of the hills of Nordmarka close to the Norwegian capital Oslo. The soil around the Randsfjord is amongst the most fertile in Norway. Hadeland accounts for just 5 % of the country´s area, but it represents 13% of its agricultural land. Farmers harvest grains and potatoes. Pigs, dairy cattle and horses are also bred by farms here. The population is approximately 27.000. It is an exciting region with a rich cultural landscape and a welth off attractions and activities for visitors of all ages.
Hadeland Glassworks (Medieval Scandinavia) and the Viking Champ Raukr forms two extremes at either end of the region, spanning a whole spectre off sights and activities between them. There is Fjorda, a veritable eldorado for canoe enthusiasts, Granavollen with its famous “Sister Churches” and Stone House, and the unforgettable mine safari in the Nyseter mines in Grua, as well as a wide range of art galleries, museums, etc.
Why not visit a genuine farm and taste good traditional farm fare? There is so much to see and do in Hadeland, if you are willing to take the time to find out about and visit our unique attractions. Whether you are looking for a place to sleep, or want to go out for a first-class meal, we can help you find the perfect place.
HADELAND GLASSVERK
Hadeland Glassworks, steeped in history, art, culture and old handcraft traditions, is one of Norway´s most popular tourist attractions. The skills of glass-blowing have been carefully nurtured over the past 234 years producing a unique attribute in Norwegian cultural history. You can watch some of Norway’s best glassblowers at work. You can even try blowing your own glass. Nowhere else in Norway, or perhaps in the world, can you find a company with handcraft traditions going back so far in time. Situated in beautiful surroundings, Hadeland Glassworks is a centre with a difference offering many exciting activities. Witness traditions living on in these exciting, artistic handcrafts.
A visit to Hadeland Glassworks is an experience for both young and old. The warmth and interaction between animals and children in the Children´s House – sparkling eyes, small, busy, creative hands. At Hadeland Glassverk we take good care of our national values. Children´s House, blow their own glass.
KISTEFOSS MUSEUM
The former Kistefos Wood Pulp Mill is today an industrial museum and the only remaining Scandinavian wood pulp mill. Besides presenting an important chapter of Norwegian industrial history, the museum offers annual art exhibitions by both Norwegian and international artists. The spacious park is lush and green and perfect for picnics. The sculpture park is an attraction in itself and the café is an idyllic oasis where one can have a delicious lunch and homemade cakes. In connection with the café you will find the museum shop.
MINES AT GRUA
The iron mines in Grua date back to 1538, and later lead ore and Zinc were also extracted. The Nyseter mines are open to the public for guided “mine safaris”. Hadeland Mine Museum has a collection of local crystals and minerals.
PILGRIM´S WAY
The Pilgrim’s Way between Oslo and Nidaros was completed in 1997. The Pilgrim’s Way runs through Hadeland, passing through Moe farm in Jevnaker, then onto Jevnaker Parish church, the Sister Churches in Granavollen, St Petri Church, through Brandbu, following Kjølvegen, befor finally crossing the municipal boundary near Høgkorsplassen. Lunner Church is not on the Pilgrim’s Way, but is well worth a visit. Built in the 12th century, there are still remnants of the original round tower.
Legend has it that Olav the Peaceful built the first church in Jevnaker on the site where the current church stands. The unique “Sister Churches” in Granavollen consist of Nikolai Church and the smaller Maria Church on one site. Nikolai Church has a pulpit from 1728 and an altarpiece dating back to 1625. The Pilgrim’s Loft on Tuv farm is an old renovated timber-log building from the 1800s.
HADELAND OPEN AIR MUSEUM
Hadeland Open Air museum includes the mound Halvdanshaugen, where legend har it that the heart of King Halvdan the Black is buried. Høgkorsplassen is the highest point on Kjølvegen, the route along which King Sverre and his men hauled their Viking ships from Randsfjord to Lake Mjøsa on timber logs in the late 12th century. The Stone House is believed to date back to the end of the 13th century. The orginal purpose, of this building is a mystery to us today. Lunner Church still has remains of the original round church tower form the 1100s.
SILVERSMITH
One of the first metals that was discovered was silver. It`s high reflection of light gives the silver an unique white white color and the silversmiths inspiration to create the most beautiful things. With background in Norwegian silverart, Bjørn I. Hømann is today carrying on this tradition.