Hovden I Setesdal
Hovdenuten has become a popular hiking destination. First came the Sherpa trail, and on 22 June 2024 the day trip cabin opened. The cabin was designed by Aksent Arkitekter and built by the local company Otralaft.
The project is a collaboration between Bykle municipality and SVR (Setesdal Vesthei Ryfylkeheiane protected landscape area) and forms part of SVR’s visitor strategy. Funding has also been provided by the Setesdal intermunicipal council, Agder County Municipality and public grants.
Although the hike to Hovdenuten is steep, the stone stairs have greatly improved accessibility. The work was carried out by Stibyggjaren AS, who brought in four Sherpa trail builders from the Khumbu region in Nepal. The stone was transported from Eidsborg in Telemark by helicopter. Apart from this, the work was done using simple hand tools and manual labour. The result is impressive craftsmanship and an attraction in itself.
Thanks to the trail improvements, the hike is now easier both up and down, allowing more visitors to enjoy the 360 degree view from the summit of Hovdenuten at 1,119 metres above sea level.
Please note that there is no designated parking at the start of the trail in Hovden Fjellpark. Visitors are encouraged to use public parking areas, such as Hovden town centre, the southern day parking area near the roundabout north of the centre, or Hovden Alpine Centre for a fee.
Many protected areas have visitor strategies designed to guide traffic away from sensitive wildlife and nature. The mountains around Hovden are home to Europe’s southernmost wild reindeer population, with around 4,000 animals. Protecting the reindeer also helps protect other wildlife and plant species. By directing visitors to areas where the animals are less disturbed, the region helps preserve a vulnerable species.
PLEASE BRING BINOCULARS!
From the summit of Hovdenuten, you have a full 360 degree view. One example is the calving area at Enden (Hovdeflotti), where access is restricted from 25 April to 31 May. From Hovdenuten, however, you are free to look for reindeer with binoculars.
Please note that the cabin normally closes in November and reopens in spring, depending on snow conditions.
Source: Setesdal