Furnes: Church Art, Historic Routes and Lake Mjøsa

Furnes Church was consecrated in 1708; old routeways and the circular route near Olaåsen add to the picture.

Furnes Church and its history

Furnes Church is a cruciform church and was consecrated on 12 July 1708. Stones from the cathedral ruins at Domkirkeodden in Hamar were used for the new building in 1708. Vår Frelsers Church (Oslo Cathedral) served as its model. Ringsaker Church is also located in Ringsaker. It is one of Norway’s most authentic and best-preserved medieval churches; its oldest parts date from the first half of the 12th century. This makes it considerably older than Furnes Church, consecrated in 1708. The two churches represent different periods in architectural history.

Church art is also part of this local heritage: Furnes Church contains numerous works of art created by people from Furnes; Jens L. Strammerud is particularly noted.

Old roads and traces of transport history

Two almost parallel roads run through Furnes, today called Kongsveg, Gamle Kongsveg and Kongsvegen. Between them is a crossing section of road from the Middle Ages, which is probably even older.

Furnæs station is also part of the area’s history: it was the first stop in Ringsaker and was renamed Jessnes in 1921. A historic section of road in Furnes can be reached from Karmel menighetshus on Gamle Kongsveg via a route about 200 metres long; parking is available at the starting point.

Circular route near Olaåsen

The circular route over Olaåsen follows Vollavegen and offers views of Lake Mjøsa. The route passes Trollstua, a log cabin built in 1916. If you plan to take the route, bear in mind that vegetation and views may change; check the condition of the cabin on site.

Jessnes on Lake Mjøsa: beach, lakeside path and boating destinations

Jessnesstranda is a developed beach and recreation area in Furnes. It includes a child-friendly beach, an accessible swimming area, play equipment, a volleyball court and sanitary facilities. During the summer season, school classes, sports clubs, associations and groups of friends use the area for swimming, playing, barbecues and beach volleyball. End-of-summer celebrations and gatherings are also held there. Facilities and seasonal maintenance may change; check the latest information before your visit.

The lakeside path along Mjøsa runs from Espern in Hamar to Jessnes. Boats can travel from the harbour in Jessnes to Hamar, Tingnes and Brumunddal. Boat services may be seasonal; check in advance whether this option is available on your visit dates.

A distinctive building in Furnesåsen

Høsbjør Turisthotell in Furnesåsen was designed by Rudolf Emil Jacobsen. From 1919, it offered guests magnificent views over Hedmarken and Lake Mjøsa; the building remains a landmark in Furnes.

Discover more destinations: Sjusjøen, Moelv, Mesnali, Lismarka, Tingnes, Brumunddal, Nes På Hedmark

Go to the main travel overview: Ringsaker.