Discover Ljosland

Ljosland lies in the mountains of southern Norway and is a gateway to Setesdal Vesthei. The area is shaped by high-mountain nature, with peaks above 1,000 metres. The seasons play an important role when choosing when to stay: in summer, marked trails and swimming spots take centre stage, while in winter a network of cross-country ski tracks connects Ljosland with mountain huts. The chapel, alpine plant garden and nearby destinations add to the outdoor experiences.

Hiking and peaks around Ljosland

The extensive network of red-marked trails maintained by DNT Sør starts in Ljosland. In summer, a marked route also leads to the DNT hut Lakkenstova. The hut can be reached on foot from the Ljosland Ski Centre car park in about two hours; the round trip from the ski centre is about 14 kilometres. These details provide a guide for planning your hike, while trail and access conditions vary by season. Check conditions before setting out.

Lakkenstova is an unstaffed DNT hut in the rocky highlands above the tree line. It is unlocked and has provisions. The main building has 26 beds, with another 10 in the emergency shelter. There is also a separate room for dogs and their owners. This means you can assess the hike not only by its approximate duration and total distance, but also by the hut facilities and sleeping arrangements described.

West of Ljosland, in the surrounding area, lies Skoræ, at 1,041 metres. The summit is considered Norway’s southernmost peak above 1,000 metres and the highest mountain in Åseral municipality. The marked trail, partly indicated by cairns, leads from Farevatn through Farstøldalen to the trail junction at Skorstean; from there, it is another two kilometres to the summit. The route and location of the peak are therefore quite different from the hike to Lakkenstova.

Ski tracks, swimming spots and seasonal activities

In winter, a groomed or marked network of ski tracks connects Ljosland with the mountain huts. Grooming can vary by season. This offers winter cross-country skiing options distinct from the summer trails and the marked route to Lakkenstova. Which part of the trail network is right for you therefore also depends on when you travel.

There are several swimming spots in Ljosland: the river by Ljosland Fjellstove, the waterfall between Tjønna and Langevatn, Ljoslandsvatnet by the cabin area in Kløystøl, and Grønlitjønn. These spots are spread across different bodies of water and locations. Outdoor swimming conditions depend on the season.

The chapel, alpine plants and local culture

Ljosland Chapel stands high and apart at Ljoslandsgarden, overlooking Ljoslandsvatnet and surrounded by imposing mountains. Bishop Kaare Støylen consecrated it on 21 June 1959; the architect was Alf Erikstad. An abandoned schoolhouse near Lognavatn and new materials were used in its construction. Trygve Roland and Tore Tveitstøl built the chapel. Its history links a specific place with the landscape around the lake.

The public garden Ljosland Fjellhage is dedicated to Norway’s alpine plants. Admission is free, and the garden is easily accessible for wheelchair users. Check local conditions before your visit.

One nearby destination is Heiegarden Pytten, in Bygland municipality. The farm is easiest to reach from Ljosland and Langevatn. A hiking trail runs from Øvregardsbrua in Ljosland along Langevatn to the farm; at Fosstjønn, it becomes a clearly defined footpath. When planning, you can therefore distinguish between trails in Ljosland and a destination outside the area.

For your bearings in Ljosland: Ljosland Fjellstove is just after the turn-off to Ljosland Chapel, on the left, and offers peace and quiet, good food and beautiful nature. Check before your trip whether the restaurant and accommodation will be open during your stay.

Discover more destinations: Åseral, Fossdal

For the main travel overview: Åseral.