Round Trip Norway
Two unique mountain regions. One unforgettable round trip.
From the ferry to the mountain peak – your round trip through Southern Norway
Get behind the wheel, take the ferry across the Skagerrak, and experience Telemark and Setesdal on some of Norway's most beautiful roads. Two unique mountain regions. An unforgettable round trip through Norway.
* Prices Hovden: per night for 3 or 4 bedrooms (minimum 2 nights). Code: DE+NL
** Prices Vrådal: per night for an apartment in Vrådal Ferieleiligheter with 2 bedrooms (maximum 4 people).
Experience Vrådal, Telemark and Hovden, Setesdal
This is the ideal trip for anyone who loves the freedom of driving their own route at their own pace – whether in a motorhome, with a caravan, or in a fully packed car. Join us on a round trip through Norway!
From the ferry terminal in Kristiansand, the route leads through some of Southern Norway's most beautiful mountain and valley landscapes: first to the idyllic Vrådal in West Telemark, then on to the high-mountain region of Hovden in Setesdal, before heading south through historical Setesdal back to the coast. Two stages. Endless nature experiences.
Tour overview:
• Ferry Hirtshals–Kristiansand: approx. 3 hrs 15 min.
• Kristiansand–Vrådal: approx. 170 km / 2.5 hours driving time
• Vrådal–Hovden: approx. 122 km / 2 hours driving time
• Hovden–Kristiansand (Setesdalsvegen, Rv9): approx. 209 km / 3.5 hours driving time
• Total distance: approx. 500 km – can easily be spread over 5 to 8 days, leaving plenty of time to enjoy each stop.
The mountains are only a few hours away!
After a while, you can leave the city behind, take off your shoes, and dip your toes into fresh mountain water!
Let us put together an itinerary for you.
Stage 1: The crossing over the Skagerrak
The journey begins the moment you step on board. Take the ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand, sit back, and watch the Norwegian coast appear on the horizon. You'll arrive in just over three hours – ready for the adventure that awaits.
Ferry info: Fjordline // Color Line
Stage 2: Kristiansand → Vrådal
From Kristiansand, the route leads north through forested valleys and past sparkling lakes until you reach Vrådal in West Telemark. Here, you'll find cozy cabins and apartments near lakes Nisser and Vråvatn, nestled in lush nature and close to one of Norway's most charming mountain villages.
Stage 3: Vrådal → Hovden
From Vrådal, the round trip continues towards the high mountains. Along the way, the landscape changes: forests gradually give way to wide open spaces and barren mountain scenery. After a drive of just over two hours, you reach Hovden, which is located at 900 meters above sea level.
Stage 4: Hovden → Kristiansand (the return journey)
The final stage takes you south on Route 9 through Setesdal – one of Norway's best-preserved cultural valleys, characterized by traditional storehouses (*stabbur*), old farms, and unique local architecture. Follow the river Otra to the south coast and complete the round trip with the ferry crossing from Kristiansand. A journey full of mountains, fjords, and wonderful memories.
In focus: Vrådal – a hidden gem in Telemark
Vrådal is known for its spectacular landscape with steep mountain slopes dropping into the crystal-clear lakes Nisser and Vråvatn. Here you can swim, fish, hike through varied terrain, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet on the terrace of your cabin. In winter, the Vrådal Alpine Centre offers excellent conditions for skiers of all ages.
Through Vrådal Booking you will find a wide selection of cabins and apartments – from cozy family cabins to stylish holiday rentals. It is the ideal starting point for the first days of your trip.
In focus: Hovden – high mountains and adventure in Setesdal
Hovden is the northern gateway to Setesdal and is one of Southern Norway's most popular high-mountain destinations – both in summer and winter. Here, you'll find a 170 km network of trails for mountain hiking and cycling, as well as excellent fishing waters and the Hovden Fjellbad activity center. The latter is home to what is probably Norway's most spectacular outdoor pool, "Akvedukten" (the aqueduct): it stretches across the hiking trail and offers a view of the river Otra and the surrounding mountain peaks.
At Hovden Høyfjellsenter, you stay in spacious, detached cabins right by the river, while enjoying easy access to everything Hovden has to offer.
Practical information
- Ferry booking: Book the ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand well in advance, especially during the high season (June–August).
- Motorhomes and caravans: The entire route follows well-maintained provincial and national roads, which are excellent for motorhomes and caravans.
- Best time to visit: June–September for summer activities or the winter holidays (February–March) for skiing.
- Total distance: approx. 500 km, ideally spread over 5–8 days.
Ready for your own round trip?
Book a cabin in Vrådal and Hovden and experience two of Southern Norway's most beautiful mountain destinations on an unforgettable journey.
Still unsure? We'll plan with you.
Still not sure how to best plan your route? Write to us — we're happy to help you put together the perfect round trip through Vrådal and Hovden.
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