The landscape of Setesdalsheiane features vast plateaus and areas of wilderness. The region is well-suited for hiking, fishing, and outdoor recreation. The trail network also provides access to the highest peaks in Agder.
Setesdalsheiane from West to East
Distance: 45.2 km Duration: 4–5 days Difficulty: Medium Starting Point: Donsen (west) Ending Point: Langeid (east)
Setesdal Vesthei features gently undulating, green moorlands and good fishing opportunities. Accommodation is available at the Kvinen, Josephsbu, Gaukhei, and Tjønndalen cabins. The trail is well-marked.
DNT Cabin Booking
At hyttebestilling.dnt.no, you can view the cabin network on a map, check availability, and reserve accommodation for your upcoming trip.
Distance: 48.7 km Duration: 3 days Difficulty: Demanding Starting and ending point: Øyuvsbu
A triangular circuit that requires minimal transport logistics. Øyuvsbu is located close to the road, making it a convenient stop before or after the hike. Gaukhei cabin has recently been renovated to a high standard. There are excellent fishing opportunities in several lakes along the route.
Show Consideration for Wild Reindeer
The natural habitats of Europe’s wild reindeer are facing unprecedented fragmentation. As a hiker, understanding how to minimize your impact is essential when traveling through these vulnerable alpine ecosystems.
Distance: 29.4 km Duration: 2 days Difficulty: Medium Starting Point: Bjørnevann Ending Point: Valle
A two-day hike through the central parts of Setesdal Austhei. From Bjørnevasshytta, the trail goes south for approximately seven hours to Hovstøyl cabin, which is located in open mountain birch forest.
Important Checklist Before You Go
DNT cabins run on trust, volunteerism, and mutual respect. To ensure a fantastic experience for everyone, please remember:
Leave the Cabin Clean:
You are required to thoroughly clean and wash the rooms and areas you used before you depart.
Lock Up:
Ensure all windows and doors are shut before you leave the cabin.
Distance: 29.4 km Duration: 3 days Difficulty: Demanding Starting Point: Berdalen Ending Point: Bykle
A steep hike around one of the most distinct rock formations in Setesdalsheiane. Mjågeskor is a prominent diagonal ledge across a steep mountainside. In the local dialect, "mjåg" means to have tired legs after a strenuous walk, which fits well as the trail up to Berdalsbu cabin is steep.
A Taste of Setesdal – Skinnvegen
Distance: 14.3 km Duration: 2 days Difficulty: Medium Starting Point: Valle Ending Point: Bossbu
Bossbu cabin offers expansive westward views toward Urdalsknuten (1,434 m above sea level), making it an excellent spot to watch the sunset.
