Botn skysstasjon is the only intact historic post station complex in Telemark. Those wishing to get to know Botn through its history will find a distinctive subject here: the complex combines its former function as a post station with an unusual building history. The station’s stabbur is a landmark in Vinje.

Post station history and architecture

The building at Botn skysstasjon was erected in 1864. The loft building was moved here from Edland; its wooden core dates from around the 1660s. Large roof overhangs and a carved exterior gallery define its appearance. Inside, the loft building is decorated with marbling. The complex therefore brings together several clearly distinguishable architectural details: the older wooden core, the post station built later, and the elaborately designed exterior of the relocated building.

The former main road across the mountains ran through the station yard until the road was rerouted after the war. Botn skysstasjon was a historic post station on the road across Haukelifjell. In 2019, the station and its owner, Trude E. Wilskow Botn, received the national plaque from the Cultural Heritage Fund (Kulturminnefondet) for good conservation work. Its former use also tells of a different way of travelling: the station accommodated Norwegian and international tourists travelling from Dalen; horses could rest there or be changed. This information relates to the historic function of the complex.

Trails and lakes in the surrounding area

Several destinations can be distinguished by their elevation and the trails described. The marked trail to Kroktjønn starts at Rafdalsmoen, about two kilometres east of the former Botn skysstasjon, and passes by the lake. Kroktjønn is at an elevation of 962 metres. To reach Nordsjøen, at 914 metres, the trail runs from the former station over the bridge across Vågslidvatn. Another marked trail passes Greivshyl; the lake is at 756 metres, and the hike can start at the former station. The elevations thus provide a concrete comparison of the three destinations, while the respective trail descriptions give different starting points and route details.

Kliningstjønn and Bordalsvatn can also be reached using the road directions. To reach Kliningstjønn, turn off the E134 about one kilometre east of the former Botn skysstasjon and continue along the road for about two kilometres. For Bordalsvatn, the turn-off from the E134 is about one kilometre south of the former station. The road runs to Margittjønn; when the reservoir is full, Margittjønn is part of Bordalsvatn. From there, you can continue along the road for about four kilometres, with Bordalsvatn on your left the entire way. Check current trail and road conditions before setting out on a specific trip.

Culture in the broader destination of Vinje

Those planning a trip that also takes in the broader destination of Vinje will find other distinct cultural attractions there. The Vinjesenteret in the broader destination of Vinje is a museum of literature and journalism focusing on Aasmund Olavsson Vinje, Aslaug Vaa, Tarjei Vesaas and Halldis Moren Vesaas. Visitors to the Vinjesenteret can see exhibitions, play games about source criticism, use a children’s trail and read in a reading corner. The Forsvarsmuseet in the broader destination of Vinje focuses mainly on the fighting in Vinjesvingen in 1940 and everyday life during the Second World War.

In the broader destination of Vinje, Fløtarvegen offers a different perspective: it follows Hyllandsfoss and reveals traces of timber floating, as well as old stone walls, mills and power generation facilities. This family-friendly walking trail has several rest stops by the river and places to swim on warm days. So, alongside the history of the post station, Vinje offers literature, journalism, war history and a cultural landscape shaped by timber floating.

Discover more destinations: Vinjesvingen, Edland, Vinje, Rauland

Go to the broader travel overview: Vinje.