The cobalt ore from the mines 8 km further up the hills was brought down to the Haugfoss waterfalls where it was processed using the power from the big 6 meter water wheel. Today the Blaafarveværket site is a beautiful natural museum about the making of cobalt used for fine china many years ago. We recommend that you set aside some time here as it is very worthwhile to stroll along the Culture Path of a little over a kilometer. You begin at the car park , walk up to the delightful Thranestua café (where the waffles are delicious!), cross above the waterfall and then down to the huge waterwheel and further to the lake side. Here you can take the pulley float across the Simoa lake back to the Cobalt works centre. You might also be interested in visiting the annual art exhibition. Those who are energetic might enjoy renting a bicycle to visit the fascinating Cobalt mines, 8 kilometers further up in the hills, or to explore more of this district.
You will find lots of more information about the museums, parks and mines on the Blaafarveværket website
Above are pictures of the pulley-float on Simoa lake, waffles at Thranestua cafe, a view of the museum buildings and one of the water wheel and waterfalls. These pictures were taken in July after weeks of dry weather. After rain, the waterfalls can be really dramatic!
Some of the beautiful cobalt blue articles in the shop are quite pricey but there are also lovely little items too so you will be sure to find something to remind you of your visit!
Haugfoss waterfall after a week of rain – Viewed from the path from Thranestua cafe to museum buildings on 5th September 2015.