A journey into Nikolai Astrup’s world

Nikolai Astrup is one of Norway’s most renowned artists. Together with his wife Engel, he made his home at Astruptunet, beautifully situated by Lake Jølstravatnet.

Astruptunet is a living artwork in itself, and the garden here was an important source of inspiration for Astrup’s art. His aim was to recreate the powerful impressions he found in nature. Both the buildings, the interiors and the farm garden can be recognised in his works – much of it created and shaped by Astrup himself.

Nikolai Astrup drew much of his inspiration from Jølster – and it’s easy to see why. The beautiful Lake Jølstravatnet stretches like a blue ribbon through the twelve villages, making it the perfect destination for unforgettable experiences.

Experience Jølster’s wild nature and glaciers from a kayak.

Kvåleskajakk invites you on an unforgettable paddling trip on the beautiful Kjøsnesfjord. Here, you can glide between steep mountains and over glacial meltwater from the Jostedalsbreen, where the reflections turn the water into a spectacular shade of green. Along the way, you can even glimpse the landscape that inspired the famous painting Kollen.

Gastronomic experiences

Food traditions run deep in Jølster, and the signature dish – the Jølstra trout – is an important part of the village’s identity. Around 15 tonnes of Jølstra trout are caught each year in Lake Jølstravatnet, and you can enjoy it at local restaurants – both in the village and further afield across Norway.

Nikolai Astrup had a love for good food and drink, and one of his favourites was dandelion wine. In Jølster, you’ll find the Vestavin vineyard, where you can take part in wine tasting of their own fruit wines – including dandelion wine.