Hiking
One of the most accessible activities in Sørlandet is hiking. The seaside trails are beautiful and easy to do, while the mountain summits in Sirdal, Åmli and Hovden provide a variety of difficult levels with their marked hiking trails. Read more about hiking in Southern Norway.
Cycling
Grimstad and Mandal have a special focus on providing good local cycling routes, as well as welcoming cyclists and taking their needs seriously. The North Sea Cycle Route (Norwegian National cycle route no. 1) follows the coast and goes through the towns of Risør, Kristiansand and Flekkefjord. National cycle route no. 3 takes you from the sea to the high mountains between Kristiansand and Hovden in Setesdal. More information on cycling in Sørlandet.
Fishing
Angling is a sport and a way of life for many people, and Sørlandet offers deep-sea fishing and fishing in rivers and lakes. Anglers come from Norway and abroad to the various fishing resorts along the coast, or to the quiet cabins in the inland area.
Diving
The underwater world of the Norwegian south coast thrills with its colourful flora and fauna and the wrecks of MS Seattle and MS Mosel are well-known as some of the best wreck dive spots in Europe. Professional partners will ensure you have an exciting experience.
Skiing
Skiing is a winter activity in Southern Norway. The season starts in December, and ends in April. Alpine skiing, cross-country skiing and snowboarding are all available, and the lit up trails along the coast are popular in winter. The mountainous areas in Hovden, Sirdal and Åseral are the winter destinations of Sørlandet.
Rafting
Are you an adventure-seeker? Or are you looking for a fun activity for the entire family? Rafting may be just the thing for you, and the rivers in Southern Norway are perfect for safe and fun water sport. TrollAktiv in Evje and Adventure Norway in Marnadal offer both family rafting and regular rafting activities.
Climbing
Climbing is a popular sport, and there are several areas where rock climbing is possible. The area around Valle in Setesdal is particularly known among climbers all over the world. You will also find a number of climbing parks in Southern Norway. The Climbing Forest at Evje and Hove high rope course in Arendal both offer activities several metres above ground, with adapted courses for children.
Paddling
Get closer to nature in a canoe or a kayak. Bring your own, or rent one on arrival. The sheltered coastline of Southern Norway is excellent for sea kayaking and canoeing is a great way to explore the many inland lakes and rivers. Read more about paddling in Southern Norway .
Golfing
There are several golf courses in Sørlandet, and three of them have 18 holes. You will find golf courses by the sea, smaller ones near rivers and woods, and scenic high mountain golf courses in Hovden and Sirdal.
Bjaavann Golf Course in Kristiansand, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr, is rated as one of Norway’s best golf courses.
Music festivals
Summer is the season for numerous festivals in Southern Norway. The most famous are Risør Festival of Chamber Music , the electronic Punkt Festival and the Hove Festival, which features a mix of rock, pop, indie, metal and hip-hop. Read more about Festivals in Southern Norway .