Landscape and climate

Sørlandet is a region perfect for nature based activities. The beautiful islands and the idyllic small coastal towns with their white painted houses attract people from all over.

Experience lazy days at the beach or take a boat trip among the amazing skerries. To most Norwegians, Sørlandet means sea, skerries, sun and relaxing summer days.

The climate is mild, and Sørlandet is the region in Norway with most sun during the year. The highest temperatures you will find inland, especially the Setesdal Valley is famous for its many warmth records.

The sea temperature is normally 18 - 22 degrees Celsius, which makes it possible to go for a refreshing swim in the sea. There are of course local variations, and the water in the inland lakes tends to be warmer. The rivers are usually a little bit cooler, especially in spring and early summer, due to the snow melting in the mountains.

The coastal areas offer excellent sea fishing and the rivers that flow out of the mountains are well stocked with trout and salmon.

From the coast there is only a one-hour drive before you reach the mountains. You can climb the mountains and explore the valleys of Setesdal, Åseral and Sirdal. They all have an extensive network of paths.

History and tradition

Sørlandet has a rich history, influenced by nature, climate and external conditions. Agriculture and shipping have been the most important means of existence for the inhabitants of Sørlandet right up to modern times.

Kristiansand, the largest town in Sørlandet, was founded by the Danish-Norwegian King Christian IV 1641. The city centre is built after Roman influence in a pattern of equal quadrats. Posebyen, the old part of town, is well worth a visit. Here you can stroll among cosy white wooden houses, and in summer there is a market here every Saturday.

Sørlandet also has a rich folkloric tradition, especially in the inland, with the Setesdal Valley as an area where local history, food, music, art and architecture are taken good care of, and where the locals are very proud of their history and traditions. The silversmiths of Setesdalen are renowned for their excellent craftsmanship.