Herdalssetra is a designated World Heritage Site high in the western fjords of Norway, nearly 500 meters above sea level. This protected landscape is a unique ecosystem, as well as being the longest continually operating traditional summer farm in the country. Located up a winding mountain path, this secluded monument to the cultural and natural heritage of Norway is a unique expression of the Norwegian people's connection to their environment. Only visitable during the summer months when the mountain roads are clear, the farm is an attraction not only because of the view it offers of historical farming practices but also for the delicious cheeses and traditional goat's milk caramel it produces, which visitors are invited to try.
Herdalssetra
6214 Norddal
Norway
+011-47-702-59108
herdalssetra.no
Hopperstad Stave Church was built in 1140 in the Borgund style, which is particular to Norway. Originally built as a simple Romanesque church, it was added to and improved during the later Middle Ages until the highly ornate and beautiful church that exists today was finished. Decorated with carved heads and a vault painted with scenes of Christ's childhood, the church has some of the best preserved medieval art in Norway. The church fell into disrepair until the 1880s, when architect Peter Blix undertook a massive restoration of this important site, mostly at his own expense. The church stands in the Vik Muncipality in Sogn og Fjordane County near the western coast of Norway.
Hopperstad Stave Church
6893 Vik i Sogn
Vikoyri
Norway
+011-47-576-78840
fortidsvern.no
Akershus Castle has had many incarnation during its 700-year history. Originally built in 1299 by King Haakon V as a castle and royal residence, the structures were later converted into a fortress in 1592 to protect the city of Oslo. The structure has survived several sieges during its history, both by Sweden and by Norwegian nobles attempting to usurp the crown. During the 19th century, the castle was converted into a prison whose inmates were often used for labor. It is now a national monument and home to the Resistance Museum, which examines the role of Akershus Castle in World War II.
Akershus Castle
Akershus Festning
Oslo
Norway
+011-47-230-93553
akershusfestning.no
