Vågåmo: Cultural History and Munch Connections

Vågåmo brings together cultural history, Munch-related trails and a regional setting that extends beyond the town itself. When looking for a hotel, it helps to distinguish between the local highlights—Vågå Church, Ullinsvin and Jutulheimen—and other hiking and nature destinations in the wider Vågå area.

Church, Museum and Local History

Vågå Church stands in the heart of the town. Dating from 1130, it is a medieval church from the 12th century and was remodelled between 1625 and 1630. Under Section 4 of Norway’s Cultural Heritage Act, it is automatically protected as a heritage site. The church is also linked to the Munch family: Edvard Munch’s ancestors served as clergy here.

Above Vågåmo lies the open-air museum Jutulheimen, which offers a view over the town centre. The museum includes nine historic wooden buildings from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. They come from various farms in Vågå. The buildings and exhibitions are open in summer by appointment, so arrange your visit in advance.

Ullinsvin, the old vicarage on a small rise near the centre, offers a different perspective. The complex comprises 13 buildings, most of which are protected as heritage sites. They are arranged around an inner and an outer courtyard. In the wider Vågå area, Ullinsvin served as a vicarage for several centuries, until 1981.

Ullinsvin is also linked to Edvard Munch’s family history: his paternal family came from there and lived in the vicarage for more than 80 years. In the historic vicarage garden, you can visit an herb garden, perennial beds, a rose bed and a rock garden. There is also a bust of Munch by sculptor Jo Visdal.

The digital sensory room at Ullinsvin is aimed at children and young people. There, they can independently interpret Munch’s works using specially adapted drawing software and VR technology. As the technical offerings may change, it is a good idea to check the latest details before your visit. Café Edvard offers a menu that is partly based on recipes by Christine Storm Munch; the lemon tart is especially popular.

Munch Trails and Activities Around Vågåmo

The Munch walk starts in the centre of Vågåmo and ends at the Jutulheimen open-air museum. It is 1.32 kilometres long and has an elevation gain of 97 metres; trail conditions may vary. Along the way, stops feature episodes from the audio drama “Oldemors portrett” (“Great-Grandmother’s Portrait”). On the Munch walk in Vågå, visitors can listen to one episode of the audio drama at each of three stops.

A longer option is the 53.9-kilometre Munch Trail from Bessheim to Vågåmo. There are 22 information boards along the trail about Edvard Munch’s art and life. The route is also suitable for cycling. The different route lengths offer a clear guide to whether you are looking for a short walk in town or a longer route.

Vågåmo is also a centre for hang gliding and paragliding. The national centre for hang gliding and paragliding is 2.5 kilometres east of the town centre. The main launch site, Vole, is outside the centre, faces south and is 720 metres above the landing area. Jutulporten, a natural formation associated with the legend of the Jutul and Johannes Blessom, is also nearby, above Vågåmo.

Vågå Beyond Vågåmo

For more hiking destinations, the municipality of Vågå offers the Dagsturhytta cabin on Kvarbergåsen. It is considered an accessible destination for the whole family and is open to everyone year-round. The route starts at Ullinsvin and follows Hølvegen and Likvegen. This hike is one example of a destination in Vågå that takes you beyond the sights in the town centre.

Jotunheimen National Park lies south of Vågå. The Valdresflye National Tourist Route runs between Hindsæter and Garli, with a turnoff to Gjende; seasonal road closures may occur. Check road conditions when planning your trip. Regional transport connections are also worth noting: express bus routes serve Vågå from western Norway and central parts of eastern Norway. Otta railway station is 25 minutes from Vågå, and it is possible to continue to Vågå by bus. Check current routes and timetables before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Vågå, Lalm, Tessanden

Back to the wider travel guide: Vågå.