Taste the Traditions: Farm Cheeses and Nordbø Gard
Up in Hjartdalsbygda lies Nordbø Gard og Stule, one of the oldest farms in the area, with an impressive history stretching back to the late Iron Age. Historically, Nordbø Gard served as church property, crown property, a venue for the local assembly, and a sheriff's farm.
Today, it is a family-run farm focused on dairy production and preserving the region's old food traditions.
Craftsmanship: Explore the traditional production methods of cheesemaking (ysting) and churning (kinning).
The Taste of Telemark: Savor the flavors of homemade butter, sour cream, traditional cheeses, and prim (a sweet brown cheese spread).
Bjordal Stule (Summer Farm)
The summer farms (støler) have always been crucial for farms in Telemark, allowing milkmaids to graze cows in the outfields during summer. This tradition continues at Nordbø.
Visit: Everyone is welcome to visit Bjordal Stule during the summer (July–August), where you can be served traditional sour cream porridge (rømmegrøt), coffee, and waffles.
Capacity: Both the farm and the summer farm have certified dairies and can serve up to 30 people. This is a must-visit destination to explore the authentic flavors of Telemark.
Accommodation and Venue Rental in Hjartdal
In the midst of the unique cultural landscape, several options are available for staying or hosting events:
Hjartdal Fjellstoge (Mountain Lodge): Offers accommodation and venue rental, suitable for companies, organizations, or private parties (courses, corporate trips, or family gatherings). In winter, groomed ski trails run right by the cabin, and it's a great starting point for peak hikes like Rennevassvarden.
Sud-Hovland Farm: Offers historic accommodation centrally located in Hjartdalsbygda. You can rent the Gamlestoga or Gjestestoga (Old and Guest Cabins), both equipped with modern kitchens and bathrooms. The area provides short distances to great cultural trails.
Nordbø Pensjonat (Guesthouse): Located along Sogevegen and a popular starting point for cycling tours. This cozy guesthouse offers accommodation (including breakfast) and has its own café serving lovely meals on weekends.
Teleros Farm: A former shared barn now run by a young farmer. The "Uppåstugu" on the second floor above the barn offers a great rental venue for about 40 people. It features long tables, sofas, and views over Hjartdalsbygda, with a glass wall allowing you to look down into the barn itself. Suitable for parties, meetings, and courses.
Hjartdal offers many exciting experiences for those who travel through the Sogevegen via Nutheim. Before your visit, we recommend contacting the various locations to confirm availability. The warm hospitality and fantastic products offered will give you memories for life. Welcome!