Kvernes at Averøy

About Kvernes

Kvernes is beautifully located along Kystpilegrimsleia, offering magnificent views of both mountains and fjords. Rich archaeological discoveries tell the story of early settlement in the area. The Kvernes region has preserved burial monuments that show burial customs spanning the last 4,000 years of our history.

King Håkon the Good had a guild hall built in Møre. Much suggests that it was located here at Kvernes, at Gildevollen just beside the churches. Kvernes may have been one of the earliest church sites in the region.

Kvernes Old Stave Church

Kvernes Old Stave Church is visited by thousands of people every year. Completed in 1630, it is one of the youngest and most visited stave churches in Norway. The church is open for guided tours throughout the summer.

Right next to the stave church stands Kvernes New Church from 1893. Kvernes parsonage has been home to several priests who left their mark on church history. Among others, the well-known “Seven Stars” held gatherings here, and important letters to the king in Copenhagen were drafted at this site.

Kvernes Rural Museum

Kvernes is home to Nordmøre’s largest rural museum. It features an extensive maritime section and is open for guided tours throughout the summer. The museum also accepts bookings for catering and guided tours all year round. More information about the museum can be found here.

Historical Walking Trail

If you follow the hiking trail in the area, you will gain insight into ancient history while walking past well-preserved burial monuments. The hollow paths are among the best preserved in the county and tell of times when sledges were used year-round in places without roads.

In recent years, the Kvernes area has developed into a local pilgrimage site, visited by individuals and groups seeking experiences inspired by medieval pilgrimage traditions. School classes have an annual “pilgrim day” each spring with a dedicated educational program. Confirmation candidates have their own pilgrimage day, walking along the old church path across the mountain. Various travel groups also visit to undertake their own pilgrimage walks, often with local guides. For these pilgrimage groups, a pilgrim service in the stave church is a natural part of the experience.

Klippen

Klippen is a relocated house from 1927, situated near the churches. It serves as a venue for simple refreshments - upon request. Kvernes Church also offers a rich concert program, with up to 9–10 concerts throughout the year.

Pilgrim Accommodation

In Kvernes, you can stay overnight in the beautifully restored Borgstua, located in the courtyard of the Kvernes parsonage. The site is right next to the museum and the stave church.

More information about the hostel can be found here.