Photo credit:
https://en.hadeland.com/visit-hadeland-glassverk
Sitting next to lake Randsfjorden, an hour’s drive from Oslo, a hidden gem can be found. This Norwegian secret is known as Hadeland Glassverk (Hadeland Glassworks). Since 1762, Hadeland Glassworks has been building a rich history as Europe’s largest glass museum, making it “the country’s oldest continuously operating industrial enterprise.”
Hadeland Glassworks is not only a place to view and purchase glasswork, but it also boasts 6 dining options, a museum, an art gallery, 10 shops, and year-round activities for the entire family. They even offer the chance to watch the craftsmen and craftswomen at work or to try blowing your own glass. In the glassblowing studio called Glasshytta, master glassblowers are still using traditional methods to craft beautiful pieces to share with the world. They work closely with designers to get every detail just right. In fact, up to 13 individuals work on each product.
Each piece of glass tells a story from the company’s 260 years of history. The Skattkammeret Museum at Hadeland Glassworks helps to put these stories on display. The tales range from the first bottles of the 18th century that traveled to India to today’s modern LED light fixtures. Three floors are dedicated to the three centuries of glasswork at Hadeland.
Hadeland Glassworks delivers worldwide and has a great webshop to peruse, but there is something magical about seeing the handiwork in person. And even better yet, there is an outlet store at Hadeland that features glass “seconds” at great discounts. With all that the complex has to offer, it is easy to spend hours learning, shopping, and being inspired. Speaking from experience, it is astonishing to watch as they skillfully create something that is so fragile and unique, literally breathing life into their pieces. What better way to be immersed in years of Norwegian craftsmanship than to spend some time at Hadeland Glassverk, the country’s oldest continuously operating industrial enterprise?