Autumn

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Welcome to a magical autumn in the mountains

The landscape in Tinn turns shades of orange and red as autumn arrives, and in the mountains, you can breathe in the fresh air and pick delicious lingonberries, blueberries, and cloudberries.

Gaustatoppen is one of our most popular attractions, and in the autumn the hike and the view is particularly beautiful. The funicular Gaustabanen brings you safely to the summit in just 15 minutes, and it makes the mountain more accessible for most people. At Gausta, you can either completely unwind or enjoy an action-packed holiday with the whole family.

Rjukan is a gateway to Europe’s largest high-mountain plateau and Norway’s largest national park – Hardangervidda. At Skinnarbu, you will find the state-authorized national park center, which features an award-winning interactive exhibition about the nature and wild reindeer of Hardangervidda.

Rjukan is, together with Notodden, inscribed on UNESCOs World Heritage List. At the Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum, you can learn more about the industry in Rjukan and the crucial sabotage missions of World War II. After visiting the museum, it is perfect to take a walk through historic and charming Rjukan, basking in the light from the Sun Mirror while exploring the town’s exciting shops and eateries.

In October, the sun disappears behind the mountain, and Rjukan remains in shadow until mid-March. The Sun Mirror, mounted at the top of one of the valley sides, ensures that sunlight reaches the town’s inhabitants.

Immerse yourself in World Heritage and history in Rjukan.

The Rjukan-Notodden Industrial Heritage Site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2015 and comprises four components: hydropower, industry, transport, and urban communities.

The industrial adventure began in 1903—a time when the world faced major challenges regarding food production and there was a great need for artificial fertilizer. It was also in 1903 that two key figures—Sam Eyde and Kristian Birkeland—met for the very first time. This meeting would change the world, and our history, forever. The result of Sam Eyde’s visionary plans and Kristian Birkeland’s genius was a completely new method for producing artificial fertilizer—known as the Birkeland-Eyde process.

The new industry created a need for many workers, which in turn generated a great demand for housing, schools, parks, hospitals, libraries, sports facilities, and post offices. Before the industry arrived, there were only a few farms and smallholdings in the valley, and within a few years, the population grew from a couple of hundred to over 10,000.

Today, you can experience the World Heritage site at Rjukan and the Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum at Vemork.

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Discover the World Heritage


A day in the World Heritage town

Did you know that Rjukan’s oldest business, Gullsmed Sando, has been operating here for 125 years? Or that SPAR Atrå is the world’s first 24-hour, self-service SPAR store? In Rjukan, you shop in a relaxed setting—free from large shopping malls, yet rich in character and personal touches. Discover unique shops, find one-of-a-kind items, and enjoy the great feeling of shopping locally.

Discover unique flavor combinations at Rjukan Admini Restaurant, enjoy delicious baked goods at the traditional Austbygde Bakeri, or take the whole family to Rjukan Hytteby Kro—in Rjukan, you’ll find culinary experiences for everyone!


Culinary experiences and dining



Sleep well in Rjukan

Rjukan, Gausta, and the surrounding villages offer a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels and apartments to cabins and unique places to stay. Here, you stay close to nature with easy access to activities and experiences all year round. Whether you are planning a holiday, a weekend getaway, or an active vacation, you will find a place that suits your needs.

Ready for the best autumn getaway?

Check out our brochures and guides to get started with your planning, or take a look at the practical information so you are well prepared for your trip.

Do you need help planning your autumn holiday? Contact us at bestilling@visitrjukan.com, and we’ll be happy to help you find the activities and experiences that suit you best!