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. 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.

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 goes from the sea to the high mountains between Kristiansand and Hovden in Setesdal. More information on cycling in Sørlandet.

Swimming

The beaches along the Norwegian Riviera are popular during the summer season, and Bystranda in Kristiansand is even located within walking distance of the city centre. Other popular and long beaches include Hamresanden and the Lista beaches. There are also several waterparks in Sørlandet: the new Badelandet by the Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park in addition to Sørlandsbadet and Hovden Badeland.

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.

Fishing

Angling is a sport and a way of life for some 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.

Paddling

Get closer to nature in a canoe or a kayak. Bring your own, or rent one on arrival.

Skiing

Skiing is a winter activity in Southern Norway. The season starts in December, and ends in April. Both alpine skiing and cross-country skiing are available, and the lit up trails along the coast are popular in winter. The mountainous areas in Hovden and Åseral are the winter destinations of Sørlandet.

Golf

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.

Family fun

For children, a visit to Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park is a must. Located 12 kilometres east of Kristiansand, Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park offers things to see and do for the entire family. See tigers, monkeys and lions, or enjoy fun rides, shows and water activities.

Music festivals

Summer is the season for numerous festivals in Southern Norway. The most famous are the Risør Festival of Chamber Music and the Hove Festival which features a mix of rock, pop, indie, metal or hip-hop.

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