Discover Gransherad

Gransherad offers several ways to enjoy a stay: Nattejuv in the middle of the village, hiking and cycling routes, pilgrimages, and the history of Gransherad Church. When planning, it is worth taking a closer look at the character of each route. A viewpoint hill in the village, a bike ride that may require carrying your bike in places, and a multi-day pilgrimage are different elements of a trip; you can choose your focus based on the kind of activity you have in mind.

Nattejuv and routes in the village

Nattejuv is an easily accessible hill in the middle of Gransherad, offering lovely views over much of the village. There are paths to Nattejuv from the centre, and the paths are intended for hiking. Its location and views make the hill a clear focal point for a walk in the village. If you are planning to visit on foot, check the current trail conditions before setting out, as access conditions may change.

Cycling and named routes

Gamle Bolkesjøveg is the old route between Gransherad or Tinnoset and Bolkesjø or Kongsberg. The entire Gamle Bolkesjøveg tour can be cycled. If you are not used to riding off-road, you may have to carry your bike in several places. Bear this possibility in mind when planning, rather than assuming the route is easy to cycle all the way.

Another named route runs between the centre of Gransherad and Tinnoset railway station via Neskleiv or the old Nisi route. You can travel along this route on foot or by bicycle. The pilgrim route from Gransherad via Nisi to Tinnoset is marked by Gransherad Idrettslag. Since trail markings may change, it is a good idea to check the current route before setting out.

Pilgrimages: a stage or a circular route

The first stage of the pilgrimage from Gransherad via Tinnoset to Sandviken follows gravel roads and good forest roads. One short section is steep and uneven. This description gives you a clear idea of the trail conditions: as well as easy-to-walk sections, you should expect one steeper, uneven stretch.

In the wider region, the pilgrim routes between the white churches around Lake Tinn can be tackled as day hikes or as a continuous circuit. The complete circuit is 90 kilometres long and takes four to six days, depending on the daily stages. This gives you two different options: individual day routes or a multi-day hike covering the entire circuit. If you take the bus to Tinn, you can also start the pilgrimage in Gransherad. If you plan this option, check the current bus schedule.

The church and views of the Tinnåa

Gransherad Church was built from 1845 by master builder Halvor Andreas Olsen, based on a standard design by Linstow. It was consecrated on 11 September 1849. Its construction history thus links a specific master builder and design with an exact date of consecration. For travellers who want to include local history and architecture in their plans as well as the trails, the church is a destination in its own right.

The location of the cemetery is also noteworthy: it is at Gransherad Church, south of the Tinnåa, and offers a good view of the river. The local attractions are distinct: Nattejuv offers views over the village, while the cemetery looks out over the Tinnåa. Together with the church, they offer another reason to discover Gransherad beyond its hiking and cycling routes.

Discover more destinations: Notodden

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