Hello, friends! I hope you are all doing well and enjoying quality time with your loved ones. Today, I'm excited to join the #WednesdayWalk initiative organized by dear friend @tattoodjay. We'll be taking a stroll a little outside of town, where nature is always pleasant, no matter the season.
It was mid-autumn in Norway, before we travel to US. and the weather was cold, windy, and rainy. The dark days can feel quite dull, but sometimes the sun breaks through the clouds, lifting my spirits. When that happens, I quickly put on my warm walking clothes and try to go for a walk if I am free. I have to admit that when it’s cloudy and gray, my energy tends to drop, and I don’t feel like myself. However, sunny days completely rejuvenate me, allowing me to recharge by spending some time outdoors.
On this particular day, I finished my clinic work early, and with the sun shining brightly, my husband and I decided to take advantage of the weather by heading to a beautiful spot to enjoy some autumn moments. Hammerdalen is a popular destination for nature lovers, and we were excited to experience it together.
Hammerdalen is an area located in the Larvik municipality. The Farriselva River flows through this valley, which has a rich industrial history spanning 600 years. Initially, the region was dominated by sawmills and mills. The presence of the Fritzøe ironworks further transformed Hammerdalen from a rugged river valley into a thriving and significant industrial community.
After the ironworks closed in 1868, the wood processing industry became the primary focus in the area. By 1900, the river had been developed for electric power production, which laid the groundwork for continued industrial operations and development throughout the 20th century.
Today, many remnants of Hammerdalen's long industrial history can be seen in the form of buildings from the ironworks, sawmill, and milling operations that still stand.
The area has since evolved into a district characterized by residential housing and cultural heritage, but it has developed more commercial activities and centers.
It has two ways of entrance, one from the main road to Larvik and the other from the national highway E18 under the highway bridge. This time we parked our car under the Larvik Bridge where they have a very nice parking place first hour is free.
The huge suspension bridge above Farris Lake and Farris River.
There wasn't so much water in the river because most water goes to the power plant through the huge pipes.
a small stream from the lake with a railway crossing it.
we can see. and walk along. clean, clear water, no doubt about it.
The bushes were turning their beautiful autumn color.
Some bushes are still green with leaves and an abundance of flowers.
The water pipes had some leaks, and the force of water sprayed out but there is a project going on to repair the leaks.
Morning glories are still fresh
Newly flowering thistle
while some others are totally dried out.
The nice bank on the opposite side of the narrow river, above it runs the road connecting the town to the highway.
The bridge is from a long distance away. All area is filled with small rocks along both sides of the river. I like to scramble around those rocks, so I did, and we came back to the car. We must drive 12 kilometers to get home.
And at the end, while driving back home, the nice golden autumn colors made my camera active again.
But anyway, I feel very happy and relaxed with this walk.
Thank you very much, take care, see you soon.
All photos taken by me, and info from some local history lessons.
All photos are reserved by me. Please do not share on any other platform without my permission.