The Mountain Farms

Summer dairy farming at Maihaugen – A vital part of Norwegian culture and tradition

Every farm had a mountain pasture, where the animals were sent during the summer to ensure enough grazing for the livestock. At Maihaugen, you can visit the summer dairy village, which is located on the hillside above the summer ponds, offering an authentic glimpse into the Norwegian tradition of summer dairy farming.

"The mountains are to the inland farmer what the sea is to the coastal dweller," said Anders Sandvig, the founder of Maihaugen. This statement highlights the importance of mountain and outfield resources for the farms. Summer dairy farming provided essential supplements to what the farm produced, and the mountain pastures became a crucial part of livestock management.

The summer dairy village at Maihaugen consists of several mountain pastures, showing the gradual development of summer dairy farming over time. In the beginning, there was just a simple cabin, but as time passed, the need for more buildings increased. Farmers initially utilized the mountains to extract bog iron, and later, a comprehensive summer dairy system emerged. Mountain pastures became essential for maintaining livestock.

Øygarden is the only farm completely relocated to Maihaugen, including its mountain pasture. Here, you can meet the milkmaid, who demonstrates traditional tasks such as butter churning or cheese making.

The milkmaid held significant responsibility and high status in Norwegian rural society. During meals on the farm, she sat next to the farmer’s wife at the head of the table, a position reflecting her important role.

Most of what was produced at the summer dairy, such as butter and cheese, was sold or traded. Summer dairy farming was an important source of income for the farms and a central part of Norwegian culture and tradition.