Sauland combines a river landscape with a diverse cultural history: natural pools and waterfalls form at Omnesfossen, and the area’s history is linked to hydropower. Sauland kyrkje and the circular route along Elvestien offer different points of interest: architectural history and a blue-marked riverside trail through a historic area.
Omnesfossen: Water and Industrial History
At Omnesfossen, the river forms natural pools and waterfalls. The site is considered one of the most important swimming spots for residents and visitors in Sauland and the surrounding area; water levels and currents affect swimming conditions. People fish both in the pools and in sections of the river below the waterfall. If you plan to fish, check the local regulations in advance.
Omnesfossen, together with Heddal Mølle, is a well-known landmark in Sauland, right beside the European route. Heddal Mølle has cultural-historical significance within the wider Hjartdal destination and is part of the cultural heritage area around Omnesfossen in Sauland. The industrial history of the area around Omnesfossen is linked to hydropower: in 1916, the municipality of Heddal expropriated Omnesfossen and put a roller mill into operation there in 1919. It was powered directly by water and by a turbine system.
Church and Cultural Heritage in Sauland
Sauland kyrkje is listed as a protected building; it was designed by government architect and architect Christian H. Grosch. It was built, put into use, and consecrated in 1859. This gives it a different historical focus from the hydropower-related history around Omnesfossen: here, the emphasis is on church construction and architecture.
Elvestien and Getting There
In Sauland, the circular route along Elvestien follows a blue-marked trail beside the river. It passes through a historic area where the Hjartdal historielag has put up information boards. The trail thus connects the river landscape with local historical interpretation, without requiring you to assume a particular walking time or distance.
From Notodden, take the E134 towards Sauland. Just before the bridge over Omnesfossen, turn right and park near the hiking association’s signpost. Parking for Omnesfossen is listed at Fossen Bobilcamp or Heddal Mølle. Check road conditions and local parking arrangements before you travel.
Road Connection and Season
Fylkesveg 3430 runs from Sauland through Tuddal and continues along the eastern side of Gausta towards Rjukan. The mountain pass is at an altitude of 1,260 metres; the upper section of the road is closed in winter. If you are considering this route for your travel plans, take the seasonal closure of the upper section into account.
In the Wider Hjartdal Destination
Kulturlandskapssenteret offers guided tours, lectures, and cultural programmes about agricultural cultural landscapes. Groups are welcomed by appointment; the visitor area is at Holm Landhandel and the nearby Kulturlandskapsskulen. Hjartdal Bygdemylle also offers guided tours of the mill and a themed exhibition on the history of farming and grain in the mountain villages. Barley flour in various grades and barley groats are still produced there; guided tours may require local arrangements.
Discover more destinations: Hjartdal, Tuddal.
Back to the wider travel overview: Hjartdal.
