Step into Norway’s past on this private day trip from Oslo to Kongsberg and Heddal Stave Church. With your private driver-guide, you’ll travel through scenic countryside to explore the elegant 17th-century streets of Kongsberg, once home to Norway’s royal silver mines. In the afternoon, continue to Heddal to see the country’s largest and most awe-inspiring stave church. Along the way, enjoy fascinating stories, comfortable travel, and the freedom to take your time at each stop on this private tour.

Kongsberg and Heddal Stave Church Private Tour Itinerary

Your private guide will greet you at your Oslo accommodation to begin your private day trip from Oslo to Kongsberg and Heddal Stave Church. Relax in a luxury private vehicle as you travel southwest through forested hills, rivers, and valleys on your way to Kongsberg. Along the way, your private guide will tell you about your itinerary for the day and share stories about Norway’s mining history.

Kongsberg  

Historic Kongsberg Church surrounded by lush greenery in Norway, a prime example of local heritage and architecture.
Kongsberg Church, Norway

You’ll arrive in Kongsberg, “Norway’s Silver City,” famous for its silver mines and 17th-century buildings. You’ll start by exploring the historic town center and walking through quiet streets while your private guide tells you about the town’s mining history.

After you have gotten to know your way around the town, you’ll private driver-guide will show you the following two attractions:

  • Kongsberg Church – Visit Norway’s largest Baroque church, renowned for its beautiful Rococo interior. Admire the grand altarpiece and royal box pews, which were reserved for the nobility during the mining boom. The church features stunning chandeliers and reflects the wealth of Kongsberg during earlier centuries.
  • Norwegian Mining Museum – See interactive exhibits on mining techniques from the 17th century to modern times. The museum features displays about daily life in the mining communities, providing insight into what life was like in the 17th century. Your guide will share interesting facts and stories about Kongsberg’s mining history as you explore this historic museum.

Heddal Stave Church

Heddal Stave Church in Norway, an iconic wooden church dating back to the 13th century, surrounded by green landscape under blue skies.
Heddal Stave Church, Norway

After a traditional Norwegian lunch in Kongsborg, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside on your way to Heddal. The highlight of Heddal is that it features Norway’s largest stave church. This beautiful 13th-century church is renowned for its multi-tiered roof structure and dragon-shaped carvings.

Your guide will lead you through the dimly lit interior, where you can see 17th-century hand-painted wall decorations and the carved altar and pulpit. As you explore the church, your guide will share the story behind the dragon carvings, which were believed to guard against evil spirits, and local legends about the giant who allegedly built the church in just three days. Finish in the peaceful graveyard behind the church, walk past the old headstones among the tall grass, and have a chance to pay your respects to the previous generations who once gathered at this ancient church.

Return to Oslo

You’ll depart Heddal and begin the scenic drive through the countryside. The drive back to Oslo takes approximately 2 hours, so your private guide can make scenic stops if you wish to break up the journey. You’ll be dropped back at your Oslo accommodation after a day of hearing stories about silver miners, medieval churches, and a few legends in between!