Das Beste in Setesdal

Setesdal Essentials

Setesdal preserves Norway’s UNESCO-listed folk traditions through its architecture, music, and silver craftsmanship. This mountain valley features the wood-fired steamship Bjoren, dating back to 1866, and the hand-operated locks at Storestraumen. Cultural landmarks include the 17th-century rosemaling in Bykle Old Church and the regional history at Setesdalsmuseet. Natural highlights range from the 210-meter drop of Reiårsfossen to the hiking trails leading to the Gloppefossen waterfall and the wedged boulder of Straumsbolten.

Setesdal Essentials — Karte

A

Reiårsfossen

Waterfall with a 210-meter drop located near Ose. The site features several cascades visible from the main road and serves as the backdrop for local cultural festivals.

B

Bjoren (Steam Boat)

A wood-fired steamship built in 1866 that operates on the Byglandsfjorden. It is one of the world's oldest wood-fired steamers still in regular service.

C

Setesdalsmuseet - Rysstad

The regional museum’s main building showcases the valley’s UNESCO-listed folk music and dance traditions, alongside exhibits on silver smithing and traditional costumes.

D

Bykle gamle kyrkje

A wooden church dating to approximately 1620. Its interior is renowned for extensive 18th-century rosemaling, a traditional Norwegian decorative painting, covering the walls and ceiling.

E

Sylvartun Folkekunst

A cultural center dedicated to the preservation of Setesdal’s folk music and dance. It focuses on the Hardanger fiddle and the local 'stev' vocal tradition.

F

Storestraumen Sluse

Hand-operated locks that connect the northern and southern parts of Lake Byglandsfjorden, allowing the passage of the steamship Bjoren through the narrow Storestraumen channel.

G

Gloppefossen

One of the highest waterfalls in the region, dropping roughly 280 meters. It is accessible via a marked hiking trail through the Veiåne valley.

H

Straumsbolten

A large boulder wedged in a mountain crevice overlooking the valley. The geological formation is reached via a steep hiking trail starting near Storestraumen.

I

Bygland Museum

An open-air branch of the Setesdal Museum featuring historic farm buildings, some dating back to the 1600s, reflecting traditional agricultural life.

Uchet Christian / CC-BY-SA

J

Honnevje

A natural swimming area along the River Otra featuring granite rock pools, picnic facilities, and public toilets, located near the village of Valle.