Østre Toten: Pilgrim Trail, Churches and Mjøsa Culture

Østre Toten lies on the western shore of Lake Mjøsa. A trip here can be shaped around several clearly distinct themes: the pilgrim trail through cultural and natural landscapes, churches and historic buildings, art, and stories of life around the lake. You can decide in advance whether walking, architectural and art history, or Mjøsa as a cultural focal point should play the greater role in your stay.

Hiking through varied landscapes

The pilgrim trail through Østre Toten passes through cultural and natural landscapes and runs mainly along sunken lanes, farm tracks and gravel roads. It is for pedestrians only. Those interested in the trail can explore a route whose character is shaped by the landscape and its varied surfaces. Totenåsen also offers hiking opportunities. The Peder Balke Centre is the starting point for a hike north along Lake Mjøsa. These landmarks offer different ways to explore the area: the pilgrim trail through cultural and natural landscapes, Totenåsen as a hiking destination, and a lakeside walk in a specified direction.

Håjen: bridge and path along the Lena River

Håjen Bridge is a cultural heritage site and a landmark in Østre Toten. The 30-metre-long bridge is a limestone arch made of dry-laid stones. Its length and construction give the structure a distinctive architectural profile. At Håjen, the path along the Lena River is also intended for public use for leisure and recreation. The site thus features both a striking structure and a path for leisure and recreation.

Churches with different histories

Hoff Church is a medieval church built between 1150 and 1200. In Kolbu is Kolbu Church, a wooden cruciform church dating from 1730. Kapp Church is the newest church in Østre Toten. Those interested in churches will find several points of interest here: a medieval construction date, a wooden cruciform church with a specific year, and the comparative distinction of being the newest church. These facts highlight different periods and architectural features; the three churches do not all belong to the same type.

Art and cultural history by Lake Mjøsa

The Peder Balke Centre is housed in a protected 18th-century building. Its ballroom is decorated with twelve murals that Peder Balke painted in 1834. Architectural history and painting come together here, but the dates refer to different things: the building dates from the 18th century, while Balke painted the murals in 1834. In Kapp, Mjøsa’s Ark tells the story of life on and around Lake Mjøsa from the Viking Age onwards. The old buildings of the Kapp Milk Factory also have a cultural use: they host various exhibitions and are home to the Mjøsa Museum.

Farm shops and regional cuisine

Østre Toten has many welcoming farm shops, which are recommended places to visit. Another place to eat is Gromt at the Peder Balke Centre. It serves regional produce as well as homemade dishes, cakes and waffles. The waffles are served with homemade jam and sour cream. The menu and seasonal offerings may change. Regional produce and homemade dishes thus add a culinary dimension to trip planning alongside hiking, churches and art.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Skreia, Kapp, Sletta, Lena, Etnedal, Sel, Gausdal, Øystre Slidr.

For the overarching travel overview: Oppland.