Seljord is a picturesque town surrounded by rugged mountains and rolling farmland. The remote setting has made it a hub for outdoor activities, with hiking, cycling and fishing just some of the activities on offer. In addition to outdoor pursuits, Seljord has a rich artistic heritage and folk culture to discover.
Things to do in Seljord
Strolling around the town centre, you’ll be charmed by traditional houses with grass covered roofs. Many are covered in colourful wildflowers and give the town a fairy-tale feel. The 12th-century Seljord Church is one of the oldest buildings in town and features a simple Romanesque façade and red-tile roof.
Over the centuries, Seljord has inspired generations of artists, writers and musicians. This has contributed to the town’s rich arts and cultural scene. Browse local galleries in the town centre and enjoy an evening of traditional folk music at a cosy tavern.
Seljord is set on the banks of a 13-kilometre-long lake and is featured in countless Norwegian fairy tales and folk songs. A 40-kilometre-long cycling trail loops around the lake and takes around three hours to complete. Stop for a picnic lunch on the way and look out for Selma, the mythical sea serpent that lives in the lake.
With more than 90 kilometres of marked trails to explore, Seljord is a hiker’s paradise. The challenging hike up Skorve mountain takes between five and eight hours. You’re rewarded with spectacular views over the Telemark Mountains and the Kivledalen Valley. The family-friendly trail up Hattefjell mountain takes around one hour to complete and takes you through sun-dappled woodlands and past historic farms.
Getting around Seljord
Seljord is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot, while bicycles are a fun and eco-friendly way to get around Seljord. The town is a 2.5-hour drive from Oslo and three hours from Oslo Airport. Trains run between Oslo and Bo in 2.5 hours. From here, it’s a 30-minute drive or bus ride to Seljord.