Norway is a beautiful country with the seventh-longest coastline in the world (writes Antony Hayes). It has the highest mountain in Scandinavia and stretches well into the Arctic Circle. It is a place full of character, beauty and culture, with towns that range from the authentically ancient to the sophisticated and modern.

In this article I would like introduce to you to Røros, a large town and UNESCO heritage site that started developing around 1646 when the first copper ore was extracted from its mountains. It is noted that the Sami (an indigenous people of Scandinavia) were actually the first residents, having arrived long before anyone else, who still to this day practice reindeer husbandry in the region.

Røros is right in the centre of Norway and getting there is a treat. You will journey through pine forests and make your way along windy mountain roads while witnessing truly stunning scenery. It is approximately a six hour drive from Oslo, but upon arriving you will soon realise that the trip was worth it. Personally I enjoy driving, and unless you have the misfortune to be stuck behind a caravan it is a pleasant trip. (If you would like to see something new on the return trip it is easy to take a detour through Sweden).

You will notice straight away that the town is a bustling community of craftsmen and merchants who offer the tourists a warm welcome. The region has personality and allows the tourist to feel as if he or she has taken a step back in time to a place that has fewer worries.

Scattered along the stone streets are stalls offering various wares and crafts, with one in particular offering cured Scandinavian meats such as reindeer and moose. The shops sell goods that range from reindeer-horn knives to bear skins and other intriguing merchandise. If you are hungry there are a number of attractive options available for the single traveller or the family alike, such as pizza houses to five star restaurants.

You could spend hours just walking around the town, which works well as the main attraction, without trying some of the activities on offer or walking through the picturesque nature parks.

Attractions available include the Olavsgruva mine, which allows guided tours half a kilometre into the mountain and 50 metres below the surface all day. A lot of the walls are stained fluorescent green and blue where the copper has reacted with the oxygen. Other walking tours are available that will provide insight into how the people lived and worked in the traditional town. If you prefer it is possible to take a look at the mountain village of Vingelen which is one of the few active mountain farm villages today. The villages are full of traditional wooden houses that brew up a calm and peaceful atmosphere.

There is an assortment of activities available for all types of people. If you would prefer to spend a relaxing weekend playing golf on the impressive greens you will have ample opportunity to do so.  Other options could include boating, fishing, cycling and even horse riding for those who are orientated towards the equestrian lifestyle. However if you would like to try something new, dog sledging is available all year round. In the summer and autumn husky tours are available on tenacious carts while in the winter you can opt for the classic sleds for an absolutely inspiring trip. If you arrive in the winter you can take part in the alpine skiing, cross-country skiing or perhaps attend the “Femund Dog Sledging Race” (featuring roughly 130 participants and 1,300 dogs), which takes place during the first weekend of February.

For those that prefer luxury, there are a number of top quality hotels to choose from, but I would recommend taking a look around and consider staying at one of the many mountain lodges, cabins and guesthouses for a truly original experience. If you arrive during the warmer months then camping is also an option, and with the surrounding nature as an example of what this world is capable of, no one would admonish you. To conclude, Røros is an enchanting region with exquisite landscape that will humble even the most stubborn of spirits. Whether you are old or young, a family, couple or the single traveller I would recommend this as a superb trip.

About the author

Antony Hayes is a British/South African freelance journalist who currently resides in Norway with his fiancée.  He says: "I have learnt that there is no better way to find fuel for writing than travelling, and hope to get back out there soon. My definition of life is similar to that of experience, and when I experience life I like to write about it and share my perspective with the world."

www.antony-hayes.com