There was not an exact match for the language you toggled to. You have been redirected to the nearest matching page within this section.
The preservation of the wild reindeer population is extremely important, and this is frequently the main reason for establishing nature protection areas. These surroundings often serve as winter grazing land, migration routes and calving areas. The management of them is therefore crucial for the future of the wild reindeer, and the protected areas are vital in the national wildlife preservation plan.
Setesdal Vesthei – Ryfylkeheiane is also a mountain area in regular use. Written sources from the last 200 years provide an historical account of this, and archaeological findings reveal that this use can be traced a long way back in time. This extensive utilization of the area has left its physical marks on the landscape and formed the attitude and mentality of the local population in this part of Norway.
Not least with regard to recreation and experiences of nature, this unique landscape is worthy of preservation.
For traditional outdoor life the wildlife conservation has practically no impact. With certain exceptions you may go wherever you want to. You may set up a tent, go hunting and fishing, gather berries and mushroom. For hunting and fishing, prevailing laws and regulations must be observed; and you need a permit from the landowner.
The public right of access prevails, and there are several marked trails and tourist cabins in the area. The local branch of the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT Sør and Stavanger Turistforening) has a number of cabins in the Setesdal Vesthei – Ryfylkeheiane.
The Steinbuskaret pass in Bykle has a year-round restriction of access. Otherwise there are some areas, for example at Hovden, Valle and by the Brokke–Suleskard road, which has restricted access in April and May. We advise you to obtain information about this before you start your hike.
• Use your binoculars frequently.
• If you encounter wild reindeer, return cautiously the way you came.
• Try to avoid being in the wind direction towards the animals. They have a good sense of smell.
• Bring your dog along if you like, but keep it on a leash.
• If you risk disturbing the reindeer by taking a photo, you should rather buy a postcard.
Enjoy your hike!
The major part of the nature protection area is privately owned, and there may be long hunting traditions. For this reason some of the tourist cabins have limited access during the reindeer hunt. We advise you to obtain information about this before you start your hike. Please contact DNT Sør or Stavanger Turistforening.
Show general consideration when hiking during the hunting season, and avoid unnecessary disturbances.
• Reindeer: 20 August – 30 September
• Moose: 25 September – 31 October
• Grouse: 10 September – 28 February
Throughout the valley there are excellent opportunities for walking and hiking. From Evje in the south to Hovden in the north, amazing viewpoints await you. In addition to the short round trips, there are several hiking routes connecting the various cabins of the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT).
Go to: Hiking in SetesdalThroughout the valley there are excellent opportunities for walking and hiking. From Evje in the south to Hovden in the north, amazing viewpoints await you. In addition to the short round trips, there are several hiking routes connecting the various cabins of the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT).
Back to Top