Vistnestunet – Historic farmstead

The History of the Farm

The farm was built in 1875 by the carpenter Tjerand Olsen Bø, commissioned by the couple Rakel and Andreas. Their son, Andreas Andreasson, took over the farm in 1900 together with his wife, Ellen Serina Olsdotter from Heiabruket at Vistnes. In 1941, the farm was taken over by their son Erling.

The placement of the buildings within the farmyard follows old traditions and is based on generations of experience regarding what was necessary on the flat and weather-exposed landscape of Jæren. In 1975, the farm was donated by its former owner, Artur Vistnes, to what was then known as the Randaberg Rural Museum.

The cultural and historical value of the farm is considerable, as both the farm and the surrounding area provide knowledge and insight into traditional building practices, cultural history, and local farming history. Vistnestunet is the best-preserved farm environment from the late 19th century in the municipality of Randaberg. The farm is owned by the Municipality of Randaberg and managed by Jærmuseet. Its operation is a collaboration between the two.

Vistnestunet Today

Today, the farm remains largely as it stood in the late 19th century and is operated as a museum farm with organized educational activities. The farm keeps chickens, and the surrounding outlying fields are leased to sheep farmers. Throughout the year, educational programs are arranged by Jærmuseet, while the Municipality of Randaberg organizes open activity days.

In addition, all or parts of Vistnestunet can be rented. In 2024, the old hay cellar, Hevdaløå, was upgraded into a year-round venue. Hevdaløå includes a fully equipped kitchen and a large screen, and can be rented for various purposes — including meetings and private gatherings for up to 20 people. There is also a large gravel parking area close to Vistnestunet.

Walking and Recreation Areas

Vistnestunet is surrounded by wonderful hiking areas along the coast and through woodland, and both wartime remains and ancient monuments can be found nearby. It is only a short walk (5–10 minutes) to Vistneshyttå, the day-trip cabin established in 2022. Near the shelter at the edge of the forest, facilities for barbecuing are available, and there is also a toilet on site. A gravel path has been developed to provide easier access from Vistnestunet to both the shelter and the day-trip cabin.