Hole: Nature, Pilgrim Routes and Cultural History
Accommodation in Hole
When looking for a hotel in Hole, you can first decide which themes will shape your trip: nature, cultural history or activities at Steinsfjorden. The sights and routes make it possible to choose between protected landscapes, historic places and activities around the water. You can tailor your destination to whether you are mainly interested in pilgrim history, nature or water activities.
Protected landscapes and wetlands
Krokskogstupene is a protected area covering 3,737 decares. Steep slopes and cliffs descend there towards Holsfjorden. The area includes old coniferous forest, deciduous forest and mixed forest, as well as six red-listed habitat types. The forest, terrain and protected status together define the character of this natural area.
The wetlands in Hole also have a special designation: they are part of the Tyrifjorden wetland system, and many of them are protected. Steinsfjorden is particularly important for waterbirds, so parts of the area are protected. Hole therefore offers a range of natural landscapes, from the wooded slopes and cliffs at Krokskogstupene to wetlands and the habitat around Steinsfjorden.
Pilgrim route and cultural history
The Gudbrandsdalsleden passes through Hole and forms part of the pilgrimage route to Nidaros, present-day Trondheim. Marked pilgrim routes connect natural and cultural heritage sites, among other things, that are associated with the Middle Ages and the Olav tradition. If you are interested in this history, the route is one of the destination’s defining cultural themes.
Halvdanshaugen, a burial mound, is located on the grounds of the old royal estate of Stein. Jørgen Moe offers another connection to cultural history: he was born and grew up at the Mo farm in Steinsfjerdingen, Hole. Bønsnes Church stands at Bønsnes, at the far end of the Røyse peninsula. It is one of Norway’s oldest medieval churches and houses a wooden Madonna sculpture dating from around 1250.
The Viking ship Dronning Ă…sta is another part of the local cultural heritage. It is a hybrid replica of the KlĂĄstad ship, built using traditional craft techniques, and was launched on Steinsfjorden in the municipality of Hole. Hole is thus home to different forms of cultural heritage: a burial mound, medieval church art, pilgrim traditions and traditional shipbuilding.
Cycling loop and activities by the water
The eight-kilometre cycling loop around Steinsfjorden, which is shared by Hole and Ringerike, runs entirely along paved pedestrian and cycle paths and quiet country roads. The loop offers opportunities for swimming and fishing. Steinsfjorden is also home to large pike. The route therefore combines cycling with activities by the water and the fjord’s wildlife.
Another route runs through the Mørkgonga Nature Reserve, which is shared by Hole and Ringerike. On its eastern side, a blue-marked trail runs from Migartjern in Ringerike to Retthella in the municipality of Hole. When planning your route, it is worth paying close attention to the information provided: the described route runs from Migartjern to Retthella, ending in Hole.
More local experiences
Ringeriksbadet is an indoor water park and swimming pool in the Helgelandsmoen business park in the municipality of Hole. Its facilities include a large and a small pool, a diving tower, a large and a small water slide, and a bubble bench. If you are planning a visit, check the latest visitor information beforehand.
The Maisgården Bjørke farm offers seasonal pick-your-own corn and vegetables. As this activity is seasonal, check the latest information for your planned travel dates. Visits to natural areas, cultural sites and seasonal activities vary in their themes and conditions, which can help you decide what to focus on during your trip to Hole.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Grøndokka, Kroksund, Krokkleiva, Røyse, Modum, Lier, Rollag, Hurum.
For the regional travel overview: Buskerud.
