Bjerkreim: Peaks, Trails and Living Traditions

The Gloppedalsura Via Ferrata leads into the interior of Northern Europe’s largest boulder field and lies on the border between Bjerkreim and Gjesdal. The circular route takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Geopark, peaks and marked trails

Bjerkreim is one of the five municipalities in the Magma UNESCO Global Geopark. Eigersund, Sokndal, Lund and Flekkefjord are also part of it. Vinjakula rises in northeastern Bjerkreim, on the border with Gjesdal. At 907 metres, the peak is the highest in the geopark and offers a magnificent panorama across a rugged gneiss landscape.

A total of 520 kilometres of trails are marked for hiking, including 420 kilometres in Bjerkreim municipality. A hiking map shows marked trails through the municipality’s natural and cultural landscape. One specific destination is Storrsheia: the marked trail starts at the E39 by Storrsheivatnet, and the outward hike takes about 30 minutes.

When planning your time, it is worth checking which part of the route each time estimate covers: for Storrsheia, it applies to the outward hike, while for the Gloppedalsura Via Ferrata, it applies to the circular route. This makes it possible to compare the two hikes in light of their different timeframes.

River, lake and activities throughout the year

The Bjerkreimselva has a total of 54 kilometres of fishable water. At Gjedlakleiva, where the E39 crosses the river, fishing facilities are available for people with disabilities. The river therefore offers both an extensive stretch of fishable water and a dedicated fishing area at a specific location.

The 17-kilometre-long Ørsdalsvatnet is a starting point for boat trips, hikes, summit hikes and excursions to abandoned farms and hamlets. The M/K Ørsdølen now operates tourist services on the lake. Several different kinds of outings are available here, from boat trips to routes leading to former farms and hamlets.

Stavtjørn also offers seasonal variety. In winter, there is a ski lift, downhill runs and cross-country ski trails suitable for everyone. Summer activities include canoeing, SUP, hiking and mountain hikes. Fishing and swimming are available at the popular Grøttelandsfossen.

Farm, market and visitor information

Kløgetvedttunet is a living farm and an open-air museum. Visitors can see restored buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries. There are no regular opening hours. Guided tours for groups and individuals can be arranged after contacting the cultural affairs office or the service department of Bjerkreim municipality.

Bjerkreimsmarken is a traditional market in Vikeså, Bjerkreim. It takes place every year on the last weekend in September. The market features exhibitions of animals and agricultural machinery, music and dance by local performers, competitions, handicrafts and local food. Check the date for your chosen year before travelling, as future event dates may change.

The tourist information office for Bjerkreim municipality is located at Vikeså Veiservice (ESSO), directly on the E39 in Vikeså. This provides a specific point of reference in Vikeså as part of the visitor experience, alongside the municipality’s trails, waterways and cultural attractions.

Discover more destinations: Vikeså, Bjerkreim, Sauda, Vindafjord, Sola, Eigersund, Rennesøy, Hjelmeland.

For the broader travel overview: Rogaland.