Best lakes around Bykle are situated in a mountainous municipality in Agder county, Norway. The region is characterized by its natural landscapes and numerous lakes, many of which are integral to outdoor activities. Several lakes in Bykle are notable for their recreational value or their role in hydropower generation. The area offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and cycling.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Highlight • Mountain Hut
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If you don't want to walk the whole loop and are just looking for a nice place to rest and (sun)bathe, this is the place for you.
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Closed from the end of August to September 3rd and only allowed for hunters. Enough tent ⛺️ terrain around it. If necessary, one would have come to the provisions store.
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Great place to stay and take great photos ...
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The hut is one of the more rustic ones. I don't know why, but for us it was one of the huts that felt particularly lonely. Website: https://ut.no/hytte/101035/kringlevatn
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The larger of the two huts on the evening when we were there (2019) just got a new stove by helicopter, a new sofa and paint bucket, so it looks definitely freshly renovated. The smaller cabin is the more picturesque and also very cozy. To Holmavatnet down it is quite a long way (at least further than you think), so not the perfect swimming. There are also some tents near the huts.
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The cabin(s) are in an absolutely picturesque location and are (like pretty much all of them) very comfortably furnished! A DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association) employee told us that this is the best place to see reindeer herds. The bathtub/washing machine is accessible at ground level ;) More information about the cabin (in Norwegian): https://ut.no/hytte/101045/storsteinen
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As all huts are very nicely located. Nearby grew a lot of sorrel, from which we made a delicious salad with nuts and avocado oil. Website of the hut (only Norwegian): https://ut.no/hytte/101051/krossvatn Most hikers will have to decide on their tours between the huts Kossvatn and Hovatn.
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Small, old-fashioned cabin with breathtaking views of Lake Holmavatnet surrounded by cotton grass. The hut "Holmavatnhytta" (1130m, 20 beds) is open year-round (no key required) and is a self-catering hut (firewood, provisions, full kitchen equipment). It is closed in late summer due to hunting (Info: https://www.ut.no/hytte/3.2341/). Non-members pay about 40 € per night (excluding food).
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The lakes in Bykle are set within a mountainous landscape, offering wild and untouched nature. You can expect stunning natural scenery, extensive hiking trails, and excellent opportunities for fishing in mountain lakes. The region provides a tranquil escape into the beauty of the Norwegian highlands.
Yes, Bykle is home to several significant artificial lakes that are part of hydropower systems. Blåsjø is one of Norway's largest artificial lakes, held by 11 dams. Hartevatnet and Vatndalsvatnet are also man-made reservoirs, playing crucial roles in hydropower generation while still offering recreational value.
The lakes in Bykle offer a variety of outdoor activities. Popular options include hiking, fishing, and cycling. For specific routes, you can explore hiking trails, MTB trails, and running routes in the area.
Yes, fishing is a very popular activity in Bykle's lakes. Hartevatnet is known for brown trout, and Store Urevatn is well-regarded for its abundant brook and brown trout populations. The general region is renowned for excellent fishing opportunities in its mountain lakes. You can find more information about fishing in the area on Visit Norway.
Yes, Hartevatnet, located near Hovden, is particularly family-friendly. It's central to the Hegni outdoor area, which offers hiking trails, a playground, beach volleyball, swimming beaches, and boat rentals. The Rocky Shore of Hovden Landscape Conservation Area is also a great spot for families to rest and sunbathe.
Yes, cycling is a great way to explore some of Bykle's lakes. Blåsjø is particularly well-suited for cycling along its scenic roads, which are typically open from July to October. The area around Vatndalsvatnet also provides routes for cycling.
Beyond the lakes themselves, you can find several viewpoints and natural features. The Rocky Shore of Hovden Landscape Conservation Area offers views of the lake. Many of the cabins like Holmavatnhytta Cabin and Storsteinen cabin also provide stunning lake views.
The best time to visit for most outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and fishing is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. For instance, the scenic roads around Blåsjø are usually open for cycling from July to October. Winter offers different activities, but access to some high-altitude areas might be restricted.
Yes, there are several self-catering cabins located by the lakes, offering a cozy atmosphere after a day of hiking. These include Holmavatnhytta Cabin, Kringlevatn Cabin, Storsteinen cabin, and Krossvatn Cabin. Many are open year-round and provide basic amenities.
Yes, for Blåsjø, motorized traffic to Storvass Dam is restricted to protect wild reindeer migration. It's always advisable to check local regulations, especially concerning protected areas or hydropower facilities, before your visit.
Many lakes in Bykle are quite accessible. For example, Hartevatnet is conveniently located near Hovden, with Norwegian National Road 9 running along its eastern shore. Some high-altitude lakes like Store Urevatn have open construction roads providing access for hikers and fishermen, though these are closed in winter. Parking is generally available at trailheads and popular spots.
The mountainous and untouched nature around Bykle's lakes provides opportunities for wildlife viewing. The Storsteinen cabin, for instance, is located in a nature reserve and is known as a good place to observe reindeer herds.


Still not found your perfect lake around Bykle? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.