Mountain hike to Svartaknuten

Svartaknuten is a wonderful summit hike for the entire family. The summit lies 499 metres above sea level and offers sweeping views of the valleys and mountains in Bjerkreim. The hike involves no climbing, but follows partly rough terrain and includes a few steep slopes.

The shortest route starts at Storrsheia. You can also set off from Svela or Litle Svela. The routes are signposted, and the area has several paths, allowing you to choose different starting and finishing points.

From Storrsheia to the summit

From the car park at Sultreholen on Storrsheia, you first follow a good gravel track. Turn left at the crossroads and continue along a somewhat rougher forest track.

When the road begins to descend towards Svela, turn off and follow the path and the red markings towards Svartaknuten. From here, it takes around 30 minutes to walk to the summit. The path crosses marshy ground, between rocks and over boulders, and may be wet in places.

The car park at Storrsheia is situated around 240 metres above sea level. Allow about an hour from the car park to the summit.

Views from Svartaknuten

From the summit, you’ll enjoy magnificent views over Bjerkreim’s many valleys and mountains. On clear days, it’s worth bringing a pair of binoculars.

If you wish to continue to Svela, follow the same route back to the forest road. Walk about 100 metres towards Storrsheia and then turn onto the signposted path towards Svela. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a lovely view of Vikeså town centre.

More hiking options

The forest road is linked to a network of signposted trails leading to destinations such as Vaule, Røysland, Svela and Litle Svela. You can therefore plan your walk with different starting and finishing points. The section from the forest road to the summit of Svartaknuten follows the same route both up and down.

Parking and access

From Vikeså, follow the E39 towards Storrsheia. Take the first road on the left after the lay-by at Storrsheia. The car park is located by the farmyard.

The car park at Svela is situated at the first side road on the left along the road from Vikeså town centre towards Ognedal and Kløgetvedt. It is situated around 100 metres above sea level.

Be prepared for wet terrain

The path to Svartaknuten can be wet and slippery, particularly after rain. Wear shoes with good grip, dress for the weather and follow the signposts. Check local conditions and whether the walk is suitable for the time of year before you set off. Turn back if the weather or going makes the walk unsafe.

See also packing list and useful advice for trips in Western Norway and the fjord pledge – how to look after nature.