Top 20 Lakes around Hjelmeland

The region offers diverse natural features. You can find impressive artificial structures like the dams at Blåsjø, Norway's largest reservoir, which are engineering marvels. For dramatic natural scenery, Viglesdalsvatnet features 'big-walls towering high over your head' and breathtaking waterfalls like Sendingfossen and Hiafossen. Meanwhile, Tjødnane is a mountain lake surrounded by rugged cliffs and hardy trees.

Yes, Hjelmeland is excellent for hiking. The area around Viglesdalsvatnet offers a classic and scenic route, including a historical 'drift road' and the Kvitaråsa primeval forest. For mountain hikes, you can explore routes near Blåsjø, which serves as a starting point for ascents to peaks like Stora Blåfjell. Many trails are available, including easy and moderate options. You can find more hiking routes in the area by visiting the Hiking around Hjelmeland guide.

Cycling is a popular activity, especially along the Blåsjøvegen, which offers spectacular natural scenery, mountain lakes, waterfalls, and bathing areas. This route provides magnificent views and insights into the region's power history. For more cycling options, check out the Cycling around Hjelmeland guide.

Stakkavatnet and its surrounding lakes are particularly known for offering plenty of fish, making it an attractive destination for fishing enthusiasts. The area is also excellent for berry picking, with blueberries and cloudberries available for those who visit at the right time.

The hike to Viglesdalen, which includes Viglesdalsvatnet, is considered moderately demanding and suitable for families seeking stunning natural scenery, including impressive waterfalls and towering rock formations. The area around Blåsjø also features bathing areas that can be enjoyable for families.

The road to Blåsjø, offering access to many scenic spots and activities, is typically open from July to October. This period generally provides the best conditions for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the outdoor activities around the lakes.

For those looking to extend their stay, a self-service tourist cabin called 'Stakken' is situated near Stakkavatnet, offering year-round accommodation for mountain hikers. Tourist cabins are also available in Viglesdalen for hikers exploring that area. You can find more information about Stakken at visitnorway.com and Viglesdalen at visitnorway.com.

Yes, several lakes offer opportunities for a refreshing dip. The Mountain lake rest spot near Preikestolen is a small lake often used for swimming, perfect for a break before or after the final ascent to Preikestolen. Tjødnane is also a beautiful mountain lake that invites visitors to linger or have a little refreshment, and some visitors pack their bathing suits for a swim on nice summer days.

The region's lakes are rich in history. Stakkavatnet and its surroundings have a long history of human use, dating back 9,000 years. Blåsjø is a significant artificial lake, part of the Ulla-Førre hydropower system, showcasing Norway's energy history. The trail to Viglesdalen also features a historical 'drift road' built by Swedish 'slusker' before World War I, adding a cultural dimension to the natural experience.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the rewarding views. Highlights like the View of Lysefjord and Glorious views of the Lysefjord are highly rated for their breathtaking vistas. The well-developed paths, despite being strenuous in parts, are also appreciated, as are the opportunities for refreshment at mountain lakes like Tjødnane.

Yes, for those seeking more challenging terrain, the area offers mountain hikes. Blåsjø is a starting point for hikes to peaks like Stora Blåfjell, the highest peak in Hjelmeland. You can find more challenging routes, including those with significant elevation, in the Mountain Hikes around Hjelmeland guide.