In the footsteps of the girls from Rui

About

Embark on a cultural and historical journey in the footsteps of the Rui girls. This hike leads you from the center of Dalen, up the impressive Sherpa stairs to the legendary Rui farm, and continues to the West Telemark Museum in Eidsborg.

Quick Facts

Distance: 1 km to Rui / 5 km to Eidsborg (one way)
Elevation gain: 468 meters total (200 m to Rui)
Difficulty: Red (Challenging)
Duration: 20–30 min to Rui / approx. 2 hours to Eidsborg
Season: April – October

Starting Point and Parking

The hike begins in the center of Dalen, Telemark.

• Trailhead: You will find the start of the stone stairs directly across the road from Dalen B&B, next to the ambulance station.
• From Lastein Wharf: You can also start at the wharf where the Telemark Canal boats dock.
• Parking: Ample parking is available at Lastein Wharf, at the Coop supermarket, or by the Tourist Information office.

Tip: Stop by the Tourist Information office before you start. You can see life-sized figures (1.20 m tall) of the famous sisters, Ingerine and Gurine, and pick up a hiking brochure.

The Experience: The "Beintsteberg" Sherpa Stairs

The path to Rui is an architectural masterpiece—a stone staircase built by Sherpas from Nepal. Locally, the path is known as "Beintsteberg", meaning the straightest (shortest) way up the mountain.

• 810 Stone Steps: The stairs wind beautifully up the steep mountainside.
• Whetstone History: The steps are made from local quartz schist (whetstone) from Omdal. This is Norway's oldest export product, dating back to the Viking Age.
• Viewpoints: Along the way, you’ll find information boards and resting spots. Don't miss the spectacular view from Riarhamaren.

Rui Farm: History and Respect

Upon reaching Rui, you enter a unique cultural landscape where the tiny sisters, Ingerine and Gurine, lived and managed their small farm.

Important Information: The Rui farm is privately owned. The Haukelidsæter family works hard to maintain the buildings and landscape to keep Rui open to the public.

• No Camping: Camping, including tents and hammocks, is strictly prohibited at Rui and the surrounding area.
• No Cycling: Bicycles are not permitted on the property.
• Leave No Trace: Please take all trash with you and show respect for the historic buildings.

Continuing to Eidsborg and the Stave Church

If you continue the hike toward Eidsborg (5 km total), more historical treasures await:

West Telemark Museum: Visit the museum café and learn the deep history of the local whetstone industry.
Eidsborg Stave Church: One of Norway's smallest and most beautiful stave churches. The Rui girls are buried here alongside their father, Johan.
Whetstone Quarry: If you still have energy, you can walk another 4 km to the Brunåslid whetstone quarry.

Responsible Hiking

To preserve this unique cultural heritage and the rare flora of the area, please stay on marked trails and respect local restrictions. By practicing "Leave No Trace," you help ensure that future generations can experience the magic of Rui.