The factory creates popular yarn qualities such as Luna, Vidde, Blåne, Troll, Ask, Sol, Fjord, and Fjell. Knitting and handicrafts are incredibly popular all over the world, and Norwegian yarn is in high demand both domestically and internationally due to its many unique properties. Visiting the factory is a wonderful experience for anyone interested in knitting, handicrafts, local production, and sustainability.
Norwegian wool
Hillesvåg Ullvarefabrikk uses almost exclusively Norwegian wool in its production. Norwegian wool is a high-quality product that is soft, beautiful, and sustainable. Its unique elasticity and durability mean that garments made from Norwegian wool can last for generations. Naturally adapted to the Norwegian climate, its qualities provide sheep with excellent protection against all types of weather. This makes garments knitted from Norwegian wool particularly suitable for those of us living in the north, but it is also temperature-regulating and moisture-absorbing—making it resilient in most weather conditions. Additionally, Norwegian wool is 100% natural, renewable, and biodegradable. Because of this, it has been awarded the Nordic Swan Ecolabel—a confirmation that it is a good choice for both health and the environment.
Hillesvåg Ullvarefabrikk
Hillesvåg Ullvarefabrikk has a long history dating back to 1898. Today, the fourth generation runs the family business with great dedication, experience, and love. The machines still in use today are mainly from around the year 1900 and from the 1950s and 60s. With proper care and skilled hands, these machines still produce yarn just as beautifully today as they did back then.
Guided tours
Hillesvåg Ullvarefabrikk is part of Håndlaget and Économusée. This means the company is committed to quality and authentic craftsmanship. The craft business aims to preserve and share traditional knowledge through cultural experiences for visitors. The factory offers guided tours for groups interested in learning more about how wool becomes yarn. Tours must be booked in advance by contacting post@ull.no.
In July, you can also join a guided tour every day at 10:00. Tickets for the tour can be booked here.
You'll learn about the factory's history, the function of the different machines, and get to see parts of the factory that are normally not accessible to visitors. The tour ends in the shop, where you'll have the opportunity to pick up some treasures from the full range of yarn and wool, as well as carefully selected quality products in knitting accessories, wool items, and home décor.
Factory outlet
In the factory store, you'll find the full range of their own yarn types, wool, and specially selected products in knitting accessories, wool products, and interior items—along with plenty of inspiration for knitters and wool enthusiasts. There is always a 10% discount on all of their own wool and yarn qualities in the store, providing a great opportunity for a good deal. From the store, you can see parts of the production and take in the factory's unique atmosphere.
On nice days, it's a wonderful experience to sit by the fjord and enjoy a packed lunch.
How to get to Hillesvåg Ullvarefabrikk
You'll find Hillesvåg Ullvarefabrikk just 35 minutes from Bergen city center.
By car: Follow the E39 towards Ålesund and take the exit to Hillesvåg Ullvarefabrikk, about 7 minutes after Knarvik.
By bus: Bus routes can be found at skyss.no. The nearest bus stop is Hillesvåg E39.