In the footsteps of the girls from Rui

A challenging hiking trail packed full of culture and history. The hike from the start of the staircase up to Rui is 1 km long, 810 steps, 200 metres hight difference, about 20-30 minute hike one way. The hike all the way to Eidsborg is 5 km long, about 2 hours hike one way.

To get to Rui, you follow in the Rui girls' footsteps from Dalen on a stone staircase made by Sherpas from Nepal. You see the start of the stairs across the road from Dalen B&B, by the ambulance station.

"Beintsteberg" is the path called locally, which means the shortest path up the mountain. A lot of work is laid down in building the staircase, and the experience of first walking on the beautiful stairs that swirl up the mountain, and then ascending to the height of beautiful Rui is quite unique.

The stone you walk on is local whetstone. Whetstone from Eidsborg is Norway's oldest export product, from the Viking era up to 1950, millions of whetstone were transported down the waterway (the Telemark Canal) and out to the world.

You can also walk from the pier area, Lastein Bryggje (Dalen). The pier serves as a docking point for the historic boats on the Telemark Canal, in summer here is also an exhibition and dining at Lastein Bryggjekafe. Plenty of space for parking both on the pier and in the center, in the center at Coop or up by the tourist office.

If you start the hike from the center of Dalen, you should stop by and see the Rui girls portrayed outside the tourist office. The image of them is in their full size - about 1.20 meters in height. The tourist office has hiking brochure and offer advice for your trip, you are most welcome to stop by.

The hike from the start of the staircase up to Rui is 1 km long, 810 steps, 200 metres hight difference, about 20-30 minute hike. The hike all the way to Eidsborg is 5 km long, about 2 hours hike.

You will discover stunning vantage points along the way as well as historical sites such as Riarhamaren and Rui. There are information boards and resting places along the route. Take your time as you reach the hills. If you look around you, you will discover a fascinating flora with plenty of sun-loving plants.

Rui is in private ownership. It is not allowed to camp at Rui or in the surrounding area, neither in a tent or a hammock. Biking is not okay either. The Haukelidsæter family put in a lot of work to manage buildings and cultural landscapes, and keep Rui open and accessible to all of us, something we are very grateful for.

Respect the cultural landscape and buildings, take garbage home with you and do not camp at Rui.

If Eidsborg is your destination, you should end the day with a visit to the splendid West Telemark Museum and its café. The museum is also home to stunning Eidsborg Stave Church, one of the smallest stave churches in the country.

If you have any energy left once you reach Eidsborg, you can continue your hike up to the popular whetstone quarry. The history of whetstone from Eidsborg can be explored at the museum.

Key facts:

Accessible: April - October

Lenght: 1 km to Rui /5 km to Eidsborg

Highest point: Eidsborg 540 meters above the sea

Total elevation gain: 468 m

Footwear: Hiking boots or sneakers

Be a sustainable hiker

When exploring nature, it's essential to practice responsible behavior to preserve and respect the natural environment. This includes staying on the marked trails to avoid damaging ecosystems, taking your litter with you, and respecting local rules and restrictions. Make sure to avoid disturbing wildlife and be mindful of any special considerations related to protected areas. By acting responsibly during your outdoor activities, you contribute to maintaining the beauty and sustainability of nature, ensuring future generations to be able to enjoy it as well.