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Eggedal Borgerstue in Eggedal, Norway Three years. That’s how long it took to drive back into Eggedal . I’ve traveled quite a lot since then and visited some great places, but nothing compares to the feeling I got when driving into this beautiful mountain village again. The moment those familiar mountains and peaks showed up, it felt like coming home. And that's not so odd, since I've lived in these surroundings for over 4 years. Coming home Eggedal is more than just a location to me - it's a memorable and important chapter in my life. For over four years, I ran Tempelseter Fjellstue. A ski lodge situated in the mountainous area of Tempelseter in Sigdal municipality, which is located on the west side—often referred to as the sun side ( solsiden )—of the large Norefjell mountain range . It's a couple of hours' drive from Oslo, so if you're in the area, you might want to visit! No, you should visit! I jumped into the role as a manager at the lodge with zero experience, and honestly, the only way I made it through those first months was thanks to the steady support of the locals and the area's cabin owners. Funny how life throws the most extraordinary things your way sometimes. It wasn't just fun, and I didn't just learn a lot and get in great shape—it was an experience I will never forget. It was an active lifestyle full of adventures and cool, supportive people, like Elisabeth, the owner of Eggedal Borgerstue. Returning to Eggedal Borgerstue This recent trip of mine was a chance to reconnect with the mountains, reminisce, spend time with friends who also made the trip up to Eggedal, and, most importantly, say hello to the village and the people who were once a part of my everyday life. I stayed in Legekontoret (The Doctors' Office). This actually was used as a doctor's office once! Staying at Borgerstua gave me a significant boost in energy. First of all, I love historical hotels, and since I know this hotel particularly well, I knew my stay would be precisely what I needed after too many months at the computer screen. I mean, you can't go wrong with clear and crisp air - singing birds, a beautiful historic hotel room, great food, and finding total peace. The owner, Elisabeth Bøle, is the heart of Borgerstua. She helped me out a lot when I moved to the mountains in 2017. I mean, I knew nothing about running a kitchen or much about the hospitality industry. But I learned! :) Today, she runs this family-owned historical hotel with a staff of friendly, hardworking locals. Her two daughters, who basically grew up in the hotel, also help out whenever they're back in the village. Elisabeth and her youngest daughter, Nora. It was great to see Elisabeth again. We spent time hiking, catching up, and even came up with some collaborative plans together! A Historic Hotel in Norway with a History You Can Feel (and Taste!) So, a little history about the hotel. Eggedal Borgerstua was originally an old coach station ( skysstasjon ). Back when travel was slow and tiring, these stations were crucial. They gave weary travelers fresh horses, a hot meal, and a safe spot to crash before tackling the mountains again. That whole heritage, being a vital spot for rest and community, is what gives Eggedal Borgerstue its welcoming feel today. It’s a tradition of service that has literally been passed down for generations. And the food? The food! They are dedicated to using local ingredients whenever they can. This isn't a forced concept - it’s simply how they do things. It's traditional, satisfying, super tasty, and full of the flavors of Norway. In addition, the building has been used as a bank, a village meeting place, a doctor's office, a shoemaker's shop, and for many other similar purposes. Must be some ghosts around, although I've never encountered anything. But what makes Borgerstue really special is the family behind it. Since 1966, the Koren Bøle family has lovingly managed the hotel! It was Elisabeth's grandmother who started it all. And I hear she was quite the woman. This over half-century of dedication means that every single corner of Eggedal Borgerstue is filled with personal history and a deep commitment to keeping the place authentic. And, as some of you know, my big thing about visiting hotels is the breakfast. If a hotel has clean bathrooms and good breakfasts, it's usually a very good sign. I obviously knew what I was in store for, but that made me look forward to visiting even more. In addition to having a varied selection of local delicacies, there is so much to choose from, something for everyone. A Gazebo and a Pizza Oven with 100-Year-Old Views I was super surprised to see a new addition to the property. The latest addition since I left is the new Gazebo  (lysthuset). It’s truly something special! I love how it's been decorated with old furniture that brings you back in time and makes you sit up just a little bit straighter. :) They managed to find 30 or so   100-year-old windows, restore them, and build them right into the new space. This gives the new building a lovely, historical feel that matches the main building perfectly. And what's inside this beautiful new room? A big, stone pizza oven! I came up to Eggedal on a Thursday, and on Friday, "ysthuset" was buzzing with villagers and guests. We ate delicious, wood-fired pizza and drank wine late into the night. It was a proper village gathering, seeing old friends, familiar faces, and the next generation all together. That’s the magic of Eggedal Borgerstue - it’s the community's living room. Eggedal: The Real Norway Xperience If you’re looking for an actual Norway experience, you need to get off the main road, and that’s where you’ll find Eggedal. One of many views you'll discover when you visit Eggedal. Eggedal is not overrun with tourists, which is part of its appeal. It’s authentic, untouched, and simply beautiful. It ’s a great place to hike in the summer and to ski in the winter. It’s nature at its best. And now that you know that you'll be staying at the historical hotel "Eggedal Borgerstue" when you're in Norway, the rest is up to you. While you're here, make sure to visit Hagan. This museum was the home of the famous Norwegian painter Christian Skredsvig. It's a beautiful, artistic home built out in the mountains, and it was one of the first houses in the entire region to have a functioning bathroom with running water! It’s a cool piece of history that shows the inventive spirit of the people who settled down in this valley. Until Next Time Eggedal My time running Tempelseter Ski Lodge and living in Eggedal was one of the best chapters of my life. All the laughter, community feel, and memories will always be a part of me. This visit to Eggedal Borgerstue was the perfect moment to reflect and look forward. Going back in time is great and often a smart way to appreciate the present, but the future is where the possibilities lie. I won't wait three years again! Before you leave, stop by Eggedal Borgerstue's website and check out all they have to offer. And who knows, maybe we'll meet!

Kleivstua in Krokskogen, Norway Perched high on the dramatic Krokkleiva  climb in Hole kommune, this historical lodge/hotel is truly unique, and I'm not just saying that! It’s a small village of 18 beautifully restored buildings, where the history of Norway doesn’t just hang on the walls - it breathes right next to you. While most people in Southern Norway are familiar with Kleivstua, and it's internationally recognized, it still feels like a true hidden gem that you absolutely must visit. Usually, I'd save the best for last, but my 24 hours at Kleivstua were so good that I have to tell you right now: You absolutely must visit this place! Experiences you won't forget When you think of Norway, what pops into your mind? Fjords, northern lights, maybe some Viking history? Sure, those things are amazing, but if you’re like me, you want to find those special places that may not be part of the tourist route. You want to experience something unique — the kind of experiences that you know you won't forget. Nice, uh? I particularly enjoy it when nature and history are involved because that means a lot of interesting stories are lurking around waiting to be told. And I do like good stories. Besides, people tend to be in better moods when they're surrounded by nature, making getaways like this pretty drama-free. And when you add ridiculous, lovely views into the pot, I know my time will be well spent. Anyway, let me tell you about Kleivstua  in Hole kommune, Norway. A Cabin with a Star’s Secret Kleivstua is actually a small village, comprised of 18 beautifully restored buildings with a total of 43 rooms. What I loved right away was that each cabin and room has its own identity. You won't find cookie-cutter hotel rooms here! My Kleivstua adventure started in a charming, quiet cabin called Løvlia . The room was incredibly comfortable, and you could sense the deep history all around. The cabin itself started out centuries ago as a simple sæter  (a small summer farm) where people lived while their animals grazed. The cabin also held a fun secret - a gorgeous, finely carved wooden headboard that was a gift from the legendary singer Diana Ross. She must've loved being here! Birds Eye View inside the Løvlia cabin Of course, I had to investigate the headboard further, and I found some old initials carved at the bottom of the board. Judging by the writing, they appear to be quite old. Very old. Very cool. I wonder where Diana Ross picked up this piece of history? I can also tell you that the room was spotless, and the bathroom was functional, quaint, and very clean. And that says a lot about a place. The King’s Road: Norway’s Old Highway Kleivstua's history is closely tied to the  Bergen King’s Road (Den Bergenske Kongevei), Norway’s historic and significant old highway, which was intended to link Oslo (then known as Christiania) and Bergen. The road was officially opened over the Krokskogen  area between 1805 and 1807. It wasn’t just a path - it was the life of the country, moving mail, goods, and people - from kings to common folk. Kleivstua was put right at the top of the seriously steep Krokkleiva  gorge. This climb is almost 1.5 km long and ascends 278 meters - it was so challenging that the person running Kleivstua actually had an official job (around 1820) helping travelers get their horses and heavy wagons up that hill. Back then, the area became a huge tourist draw in Europe due to its dramatic climb and the amazing views. The Barrel Lift Speaking of that tough hill, from 1958 to 1977, they had this quirky invention called the "Tønneheisen" (The Barrel Lift). Photo: CC - By Leif Krohn Ørnelund It was a simple lift system that used barrels to haul things like food and supplies up the steep cliff face, saving the effort of driving the whole way up. It’s a fascinating piece of history that reveals how isolated this spot used to be. I learned a great deal more about this, but the whole story actually deserves an article of its own. Secrets and Ghosts I was also lucky enough to speak with Andy Friedrichs , the current gjestgiver  (innkeeper), who has lived in the area for 24 years. He loves the untouched nature and how easily accessible Oslo and the neighbouring towns and villages are, and has no plans to move back to Denmark, from where he grew up, which I understand. He told me that Kleivstua takes pride in keeping the place authentic. Most of the furniture is antique, and they ensure it remains in good condition so that guests can actually use it. Yep, you can sit in old chairs and dine on tables that hold secrets dating back hundreds of years. If only this table could talk... When I asked if Andy had any good ghost stories to share with me, he smiled. He said the buildings definitely have their old stories and possibly lingering spirits, but that many of them had “moved on". He’s never seen or heard anything himself, but he quickly said lots of people have . A place that’s been around since 1780 and has seen so many travelers simply has  to have a few secret watchers! Whispers in the Forest The forest of Krokskogen  is the real center of the mystery. This place is famous for its legends, partly because of the renowned fairytale collectors,  Asbjørnsen and Moe . They spent a considerable amount of time here. When you drive up the 400-meter climb to the lodge, you're following a path full of old rumors. People have always talked about seeing the "little people" (huldrefolk) and other ghosts roaming the old King’s Road and the surrounding trees. It definitely gives you a special feeling when you walk the trails. Exciting if you ask me! The Trails: Great Fun All Year Beyond the history and the great hotel experience, another reason to visit is the  fantastic hiking and cross-country skiing opportunities . These trails are great all year round  and are perfect for enjoying the outdoors. Hiking:  You can walk sections of the old King’s Road, or take the easy walk to the amazing Kongens Utsikt (The King’s View) and Dronningens Utsikt (The Queen’s View). These spots, named after royal visits, offer a stunning, wide-open view of the entire area. It’s hard to believe you’re this high up in a forest! Skiing:  In winter, the Norwegian Ski Federation (Skiforeningen)  turns this place into a paradise by converting the old routes into miles of perfect cross-country ski tracks. This makes Kleivstua an ideal, easy-to-reach spot for a fun winter trip. The Food: Local & Delicious The atmosphere carries over into the dining room. Kleivstua is renowned for hosting large-scale events, but its food philosophy is straightforward: serving local and fresh ingredients. Instead of a huge à la carte  menu, they serve one amazing main meal each evening called "Dagens" (The Day's Meal) . This focus means the quality is always high. They are very accommodating, though - just call ahead if you have allergies or need vegetarian or vegan options. The breakfast was great too, and yes, you get to make your own waffles! I couldn't resist! Getting Work Done by the Fire As a bonus, I was even able to complete a little work! Kleivstua has these amazing, cozy living rooms that any guest can use. And the sofas were very comfortable. One of many rooms you can hang out in and enjoy! I curled up in one with a roaring fire going, and with that atmosphere, I became quite productive. So, if you're looking to live like a digital nomad for a while, write a book, or go on a mini-adventure, this is a great place to be and will get your creative juices flowing. My Final Review of Kleivstua in Norway I can honestly say I could stay here for weeks. It was incredibly relaxing, yet it gave me a great deal of energy. The views are incredible, the history is deep, and the feeling you get is just unmatched. Another positive aspect of visiting Kleivstua is that it's just an hour's drive from Oslo! The staff are super friendly and real. They're professional, but not overly formal, which is perfect for a historical spot like this. The only negative comment I have is the checkout time at 10 am.   It   should be 11 or 12, as this allows people time to enjoy a nice, long breakfast and perhaps even take a morning hike before returning to the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You will not regret visiting this historical lodge/hotel. And who knows - maybe you might hear or see something that will be hard to explain to friends and family. :) You can find Kleivstua's contact info on their website: www.kleivstua.no

Working at a museum sure has its perks! Every day brings the opportunity to learn something new about my Norwegian heritage, its customs, and traditions. If you want to learn more about Norwegian folk art, Ringerikes Museum,  located an hour outside of Oslo, features several super interesting exhibitions that showcase Norwegian village culture. Lately, I've been researching the trusted old mangle board, which was used well into the 19th century to smooth laundry. I can't believe everything I uncovered about the mangle boards' origins and use. It's both exciting and surprising! The Blue Horse of Norway: This 18th-century Mangle Board is a Rare and Exquisite Example of Folk Art. Mangle Boards: The Art of Ironing with Love and Wood Ringerikes Museum displays four very different mangle boards from various eras, the oldest of which dates back to the early 1700s. Mangle boards are an old-fashioned tool used to smooth (iron) linen. The oldest known mangle board is dated 1444 (found in Bergen, Norway), while the youngest one displayed at the museum is from the 19th century. We are talking about a household tool that has been used in Northern Europe and  Scandinavia   for over 400 years. Mangle boards are genuine pieces of art. Some of the carvings are incredibly intricate, and others are pretty simple. But they all have a story to tell, a history to share, and a beauty to admire. Mangle boards are more than just wooden boards. They are expressions of love, culture, and tradition. In Norway , the mangle board was often made as a wedding proposal gift, which I find pretty amusing. Times sure have changed. Both of these mangle boards are displayed at Ringerikes Museum. One is dated 1805, the other is believed to be from the 17th century. The boards, carved from a single piece of wood, were used in conjunction with a round wooden stick to smooth and roll cotton and linen, as well as to flatten textiles such as sheets, tablecloths, and clothing. It was a handy tool, but also hard work and required skill. To smooth laundry with a mangle board, one had to balance the handle in one hand and press the board firmly on the roller with the other. The board had to glide smoothly and steadily over the roller without harming either the board or the fabric. The cloth had to be moist enough to be flattened but not too wet to create creases or marks. The mangle board was also bulky and cumbersome to work with, requiring a significant amount of time and energy to manage a laundry pile. How an Old-Fashioned Iron Became a Symbol of Love According to tradition, the young man who had his eye on a woman would express his love by crafting a mangle board with his own hands or hiring the best woodcarver in town. He would then leave it at her door, hoping to impress her with his devotion, wealth, and skill. If she were interested in the young man, she would welcome the mangle board into her home and her heart, cherishing it as a token of his love and a part of her future. It would then be hung on the wall or displayed with pride for all to see. For hundreds of years, the practice of giving mangle boards to future brides was quite common in Norway. Although we know that Vikings  along the coastlines of Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, and Germany used mangle boards, it's not certain whether they were used as courtship gifts. The lack of decorative, symbolic carvings may suggest that the boards were viewed as practical tools. Learning about things like this and how showing affection (even if the customs were much stricter regarding marriage) has always been relevant for humans is a good feeling. A great deal of thought and effort went into creating these boards, and I can only imagine what  relics  like these have witnessed over time. Discover the Hidden Meanings and Stunning Artistry of European Mangle Board Handles and Symbols The handles of mangle boards are a fascinating aspect of their design and meaning. They reveal the diverse and rich regional and cultural traditions of the woodworkers, suiters, and recipients of the boards. In Norway and Sweden , the most common handle shape is the horse. The horse symbolizes strength, speed, and endurance, all desirable traits, especially in courtship. It may also tell the bride-to-be that the groom intends to provide her with a ride to their new household. The mangle boards with horse handles were typically carved from a single piece of wood. However, there are examples of them being attached separately. Some handles depict the horse in detail, while others are abstract. And they were often painted blue, green, or red. You won't believe the fantastic variety of handles that mangle boards have in different European countries. Lions, birds, flowers, hearts, and even mermaids adorn these wooden boards, each with a special meaning behind it. And each design had its own purpose. For example, the lion represented strength and courage, while the mermaid stood for fertility. The board, or panel as some prefer to call it, of the mangle board is adorned with carvings. The carvings are a stunning display of the skill and imagination of their creators. Depending on the carver or woodworker, they can be simple or intricate. In addition, they unveil deep passions and dreams for potential future companions. Most mangle boards have dates, initials, names, or inscriptions carved into them, bringing them to life. The initials on the board often represented the giver and the receiver. Hearts and flowers are also frequently found carved into the boards, as are scenes from everyday life or animals, such as deer. The carvings on the mangle boards are more than just eye-catching and elaborate. They are also full of meaning and stories that reveal the love and culture of their makers. The Craftsmanship of Master Woodworkers was Exceptional The craftsmanship of mangle boards is also evident in the choice and quality of the wood used to make them. Woodworkers often used local and readily available types of wood, such as pine, birch, oak, or maple. The wood must be carefully selected, dried, and prepared before it is carved. The wood also had to be durable and resistant to warping and cracking. The woodworkers often applied oil or wax to the finished mangle boards to protect them from moisture and insects. All the relics shown in the post are displayed at Ringerikes Museum in Norway. They utilized their skills, creativity, and cultural background to create beautiful and meaningful works of art. They carved and painted the handles and boards with various symbols and motifs that expressed their feelings and wishes for their loved ones. They also carefully chose and prepared the wood to ensure its durability and quality. Thus, they created mangle boards that were not only functional but also artistic and sentimental in nature. The craftsmanship of mangle boards is a remarkable legacy that has endured for centuries. They allow us to travel back in time and discover the stories and cultures of our ancestors. They also show us how history is constantly evolving and changing. Flat Irons vs. Mangle Boards The late Middle Ages saw the emergence of  flat irons , as skilled blacksmiths crafted these simple devices that could be heated over a fire or a stove. But they only became everyday household items in the early 19th century. The mangle boards eventually gave way to flat irons. However, they were considered luxury items, used only by the aristocracy, before common folk started to use them. Just like today, it was a matter of money and accessibility. Luxury cast iron wood burner with flat irons ready to serve! Flat irons have a rich and intriguing history that warrants exploration in a separate post. It reveals how people have tried to make their clothes look neat for centuries. You might be surprised to learn some facts and anecdotes about these humble household appliances.

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Explore authentic Norwegian culture! Discover Viking Life, charming traditions, history, and beautiful folk art with The Norway Xperience. Uncover unique insights. Culture: Viking Life, Traditions & History Join me as I explore Norway's unique culture, where history is a living part of everyday life. I'll take you on a journey through the world of modern-day Viking life, uncover the surprising history behind our Norwegian traditions (yes, even the quirky ones, like reading crime novels at Easter!), and tell you about our historical mystical folk art. Join The Norway X perience Community on Facebook FOLK ART Skirt Warmers: How Tin Lanterns Kept Norwegian Women Warm and Saved Lives FOLK ART What is the Primstav? A Spellbinding Look at Norway’s Historical Calendar Sticks FOLK ART How the Ambar Unveils Norway's History of Unique Folk Art FOLK ART European Mangle Boards: The Fascinating Folk Art of Smoothing Laundry FOLK ART ART & DESIGN Discover the Extraordinary Icon Art at Ringerikes Museum in Norway, the Second Largest in the World! CULTURE X perience Norway on YouTube FEATURED ARTICLES Written by AK Magraff for The Hardraade Viking Ship Association Read about the Klastad Viking Ship Rebuild Explore the Hardraade Viking Ship Association and their efforts to bring this historical vessel back to life in Norway. Meet Harald Hardrada, the Last Viking King Get to know Harald Hardrada, the powerful ruler who brought the Viking era to a close. Uncover his epic story... The Legendary Story of Odin Simplified Explore Odin's influence on Norse mythology, his origins, and the legendary Hugin and Munin... Learn about the Viking Age's Seer Women Discover the Viking Age's powerful seer women. Learn about their prophecies, magic, and impact in society... LATEST POSTS Load more Be Part of the X perience! Curious about what happens behind the scenes and future travel plans? Enter your email here Yes, I am Welcome ToThe Norway Xperience!

Review our simple Returns and Refunds Policy for AK Magraff's website. Learn how to exchange an item, return a product within 7days, and receive your refund quickly. Refunds & Returns Policy Last Updated: November 7 2025 Updated by Anne-Ki Magraff Owner and Founder The disclosures & polices set forth in this document pertains to the operation of https://www.akmagraff.com Contact information: ak@akmagraff.com We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase from ak.magraff.com ("the Site"). Because we offer two distinct types of products—Handmade Articles and Print-on-Demand (POD) Merchandise—our policy is structured to address the unique nature of each. Please read this policy carefully to understand the conditions under which returns and refunds are accepted. 1. General Return Conditions Category of Data Examples of Data Collected Questions? Return Window 7 days from the date of delivery. 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