Rysstad: Culture, Church Architecture and Turpark

Rysstad offers a range of things to explore during your stay: Setesdalsmuseet, Hylestad Church and Rysstad Turpark. If you’re looking for hotels in Rysstad, you can choose your location based on culture, architecture and a specific outdoor route. The village lies on the Otra River in a landscape of steep mountains. The museum, church architecture and Turpark give you a variety of themes to consider when planning your trip.

Setesdalsmuseet and Hylestad Church

The main building of Setesdalsmuseet is located in Rysstad, in the municipality of Valle. The museum has particular expertise in building conservation, traditional costumes and old photographs. Within the wider destination of Valle, the museum building in Rysstad offers permanent exhibitions year-round as well as changing summer exhibitions. The distinction between the formats is useful for planning: the permanent exhibitions are available all year, while the additional summer exhibitions change.

Hylestad Church was consecrated in 1839. A replica of the figurative Hylestad portal stands beside its entrance. The church is built using log construction, while its tower is made of regular timber framing. Architecturally, this allows you to consider two distinct aspects: the figurative design at the entrance and the construction of the church and tower.

Route and orientation in Rysstad Turpark

Rysstad Turpark lies just south of the centre of Rysstad. The route follows the Kvearåni River for part of the way, leading to a bridge on the other side. About one kilometre from the start of the route is a mill house; there are several rest areas with benches along the way. The mill house and benches provide clear landmarks along the route.

The entire route follows paths and/or tractor roads and is considered easily accessible with good footwear. Parking for Rysstad Turpark is available at the start of the ascent on the gravel road, also known as Heieveien. As trail conditions can change, check the current situation before setting out.

More destinations in the wider Valle area

The wider Valle area offers more to explore. In the centre of Valle are Hasla’s workshop and shop. There, you can browse the full range and shop directly in the store. Brokke is a starting point for trips into the Setesdal Vesthei-Ryfylkeheiane protected landscape area in both summer and winter; Brokke Alpinsenter offers groomed slopes, a snow park and a ski school.

Another marked trail leads from Road 9 through the Veiåjuvet canyon to Gloppefoss; the hike takes about two hours. It starts about nine kilometres north of the centre of Valle. There is a car park at the gate beside Road 9. Gloppefoss is one of the highest waterfalls in Setesdal and carries a large volume of water throughout the summer season.

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