Sauland – River Landscape and Cultural History

Sauland combines an impressive river landscape with traces of regional history. At Omnesfossen, the river forms natural pools and waterfalls; a mill and historic paths also tell the story of how the water was used and of the area’s past. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Sauland, these experiences can help guide your choice: consider whether you would particularly like to connect your stay with the water, cultural history or a drive through the surrounding landscape.

Omnesfossen: Water, Mill History and Fishing

Omnesfossen is considered one of the most important swimming spots for residents and visitors in Sauland and the surrounding area. Natural pools and waterfalls define this stretch of the river. Fishing also takes place in the pools at Omnesfossen and in river sections below the waterfall. Swimming and fishing are therefore different ways to experience the river landscape; plan your day according to which activity interests you.

The history of hydropower is also part of the area’s story. The municipality of Heddal expropriated Omnesfossen in 1916 and put a roller mill into operation there in 1919. It was powered directly by water and by a turbine system. Heddal Mølle is a building of cultural-historical value in Hjartdal and forms part of the cultural heritage area around Omnesfossen in Sauland. Here, natural features and an example of earlier hydropower use stand side by side as distinct points of interest.

Omnesfossen with Heddal Mølle is a well-known Sauland landmark, right beside the European route. For Omnesfossen, parking is available at Fossen Bobilcamp or at Heddal Mølle. This gives you a practical point of reference if the waterfall and the history of the mill are the focus of your outing.

Elvestien and Historic Traces

The circular route along Elvestien follows a blue-marked path by the river. It passes through a historic area where Hjartdal historielag has put up information boards. Those who enjoy spending time outdoors while also learning more about the area’s history will find a combination of riverside walking and information here. The trail markings and boards give the circular route a different character from a visit focused mainly on the waterfall and mill.

From Notodden, reach the circular route via the E134 towards Sauland. Shortly before the bridge over Omnesfossen, turn right and park near the hiking association’s signpost. This gives you a specific route and landmark to follow for an outing to Elvestien.

Church Architecture and Regional Art

The listed Sauland kyrkje was built in 1859. Government architect and architect Christian H. Grosch designed the church; it was put into use and consecrated in 1859. These details make the church a cultural point of interest in its own right, alongside the history of hydropower at Omnesfossen.

Further afield in the region, a painting points to an earlier chapter: Adolph Tidemand’s “Gudstjeneste i en norsk landskirke” (Church Service in a Norwegian Country Church), from 1845, is now displayed at the National Museum and shows what the former stave church in Sauland looked like inside. The work therefore relates to a historic church building, not to Sauland kyrkje, which was built in 1859.

A Drive Through Tuddal Towards Rjukan

County Road 3430 runs from Sauland through Tuddal and continues along the eastern side of Gausta towards Rjukan. The mountain pass is at an elevation of 1,260 metres; the upper section of the road is closed in winter. Bear this seasonal information in mind if you are planning a drive towards Rjukan during your holiday. The different points of interest may help you decide where to stay: the river landscape and Elvestien are well suited to outings by the water, while the church and mill history offer cultural and historical points of interest.

You can also explore other local pages: Hjartdal and Tuddal.

Back to the main travel overview: Hjartdal.