The whetstone walk

About

Step back in time! This hike leads you to Brunåslid, the largest of the many historical whetstone quarries in the Eidsborg-Lårdal area. Whetstones from Eidsborg have been quarried since approximately 700 AD and were among the Vikings' most essential export goods.

Quick Facts

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 4 km (Round trip)
• Time: Approx. 2 hours
• Terrain: Hilly forest terrain on a historical trail
• Season: May – October
• Starting Point: Vest-Telemark Museum, Eidsborg

Route Description: From Museum to Quarry

The trail begins at Juvestoga within the Vest-Telemark Museum grounds. The path follows a historical transport route, which today is part of the beautiful Pilgrim’s Way in West Telemark.

1. First Ascent: After the initial climb, you are rewarded with a scenic viewpoint equipped with a bench.
2. Cultural Landscape: Along the way, you will find information boards and directional signs explaining the area's unique industrial history.
3. Brunåslid Quarry: At the top, you will see massive waste heaps (uslehaugane) from centuries of production. You can also find the foundations of former workers' barracks. The quarry was active from the early 1700s until around 1950.
4. The Return: From the quarry, you can either return via the same trail or follow the county road back down to the museum.

Tip: Sturdy footwear is highly recommended as the terrain is hilly and follows natural forest paths.

The History of Eidsborg Whetstones

The Eidsborg whetstone is one of Norway's oldest and most distinctive trade goods. For over 1,300 years, these stones were shipped out via the waterways that now form the Telemark Canal.

• The Viking Age: Archaeological finds show that whetstones from Eidsborg were traded across Europe, from the British Isles to the Mediterranean.
• A Global Commodity: These stones were vital for sharpening weapons and tools, putting Eidsborg on the world map long before the industrial revolution.

We recommend visiting the West-Telemark Museum and the Eidsborg Stave Church in connection with your hike to fully appreciate this unique heritage.

Responsible Travel and Conservation

The historical quarries are a vital part of Norway's cultural heritage. Please show respect for both nature and history:

• Stay on marked trails: This protects historical remains and the local ecosystem from damage.
• Leave no trace: Carry all trash back with you and respect the environment.
• Respect the past: Leave stones and historical artifacts as you find them so that future generations can enjoy this heritage.