Mølstertunet

Mølstertunet is a farm cluster in Vossavangen, western Norway, and the core of the Voss Folk Museum (Voss folkemuseum). Sixteen historic buildings stand on the very spots where they were first built. Nothing has been brought in from elsewhere or taken away, so the site shows the genuine layout of an old farming community.

What is Mølstertunet?

It is a former farm on Mølstervegen that, according to the museum, may date back to before the Viking Age. Two families lived here. The last of them moved out in 1926 and 1927, and the buildings soon took on a new life as an open-air museum. The Voss Folk Museum itself was founded in 1917 and officially opened in 1928.

What will you see?

Each farm had its own set of buildings: a dwelling house, a smokehouse, a storehouse on posts (loft), a storage shed, a barn and a firewood shed. The oldest building is an open-hearth log house dated to around 1500, though sources differ on the exact age. A mill from another farm in the district was moved next to the yard after the museum took over the site.

Timber walls, low interiors and everyday tools show how people in the Voss region lived, worked and stored food in a demanding climate.

Is the main building worth a visit?

Yes. The main building holds the exhibition "A View at Voss", which follows the history of the village from the 16th century to the present. There are activities for children, plus a cafe and a museum shop. The cafe is known for traditional Norwegian pancakes.

Frequently asked questions

Are guided tours available? Yes. A guided tour is included in the ticket and runs hourly in summer. You can also explore the houses on your own.

When is the best time to visit? Summer offers the fullest experience, when tours are running. Opening hours change with the season, so check the museum website before you go.

How much time should I allow? About two hours is usually enough for the farm buildings, the exhibition and a break at the cafe.

Does the museum have other sites? Yes. The Voss Folk Museum also runs Nesheimstunet, the old Opheim rectory and the Dagestad Museum.

Who is it for?

It suits anyone interested in rural architecture, Norwegian history and the daily life of earlier communities. It is a relaxed visit in the middle of town, good for a rainy day and for families with children. Because Mølstertunet sits in Vossavangen itself, it is easy to combine with a walk around central Voss.