About

Discover the historic Kongeveien – once an important travel route connecting Christiania (today’s Oslo) with Siljan and Skien. This scenic hike follows the old Gamlevegen trail from Midtbygda School to Kikut, passing through beautiful forest landscapes and cultural heritage sites.

About Gamlevegen

Gamlevegen is part of the historic Kongeveien, an old king’s road used for transport between Christiania, Siljan, and Skien.
In 2022, a cultural heritage project restored and upgraded this route. The work included:

  • A new bridge over Fiskebekk
  • 3 new information boards and 7 new signposts
  • 39 new place name signs

Along the trail, you can find ancient burial mounds and traces of bog trackways, offering a glimpse into Norway’s history.

Route Description

  • Starting point: Parking at the school, kindergarten, and sports hall at Midtbygda School
  • Walk past the kindergarten, through the gate barrier, and turn right
  • After about 200 meters, the marked Gamlevegen trail begins uphill through the forest
  • Cross Industrivegen and walk through a residential area
  • Continue through scenic forest terrain and cross Skisjøvegen
  • Follow the trail to Fiskebekkåsen
  • Walk down along the southern side of Meittjenn
  • Pass Semsetra and end the hike at the county road by Kikut

Practical Information

  • Distance: approx. 4.9 km
  • Duration: about 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Season: May–October

How to Get There

  • By car: From Fylkesveg 32 between Skien and Siljan, turn towards the sports complex just before Holtesletta. Park by the school and sports hall.
  • By bus: Take local bus P7 or express bus Grenlandsekspressen. Get off at Holtesletta bus stop and follow the footpath about 500 meters to the school and sports hall.

Responsible Hiking

Help preserve nature and cultural heritage by following these guidelines:

  • Stay on marked trails to avoid damaging the ecosystem
  • Bring your trash home
  • Respect local rules and protected areas
  • Avoid disturbing wildlife

By being responsible, you help preserve the natural beauty and historical sites for future generations.