Røyknes station (Røyknes stasjon) is a charming heritage railway stop tucked into the forested valley north of Kristiansand (Kristiansand), offering travelers a nostalgic window into Norway’s steam-era past. Located in the municipality of Vennesla (Vennesla), just a short drive from the city, the station forms the upper terminus of the historic Setesdal Line (Setesdalsbanen), a narrow-gauge railway lovingly preserved and operated as a living museum. For visitors to southern Norway, it’s an easy half-day escape into cedar-scented woods, riverbanks, and the chuff and whistle of a century-old locomotive.
The Setesdal Line originally opened in 1896, linking the inland valleys to the coastal port at Kristiansand. For decades, it was the lifeline for timber, goods, and people, threading its way between farms and the powerful Otra River (Otra). While the full route was eventually replaced by modern transport and closed in the 1960s, enthusiasts and local authorities saved a particularly scenic stretch. Today, Røyknes station stands as a rustic gateway to that legacy: a classic timber station house, gravel platforms, and a sense of stepping back to a slower, steam-driven age.
One of the great joys of visiting is the ride itself. Seasonal steam services typically operate on summer weekends and selected holidays, running between Grovane station (Grovane stasjon) and Røyknes station. The carriages are vintage, the pace unhurried, and the scenery intimate: forests brushing the windows, glimpses of the river, and the occasional whistle echoing off rock faces. At Røyknes, the train pauses, the locomotive shunts, and passengers can explore the small station grounds, photograph the engine up close, or stretch their legs on nearby paths.
History buffs will appreciate that the line uses the old narrow gauge of 1,067 mm, unusual in Europe and a reminder of the engineering pragmatism of the late 19th century. Volunteers and museum staff keep the locomotives, rolling stock, and track in working order—part preservation, part performance. There are stories of snowbound winter journeys, timber runs from the interior, and the gradual modernization that ultimately eclipsed the line. Standing on the platform at Røyknes station, with resin on the air and soot on the breeze, those stories feel close enough to touch.
Practicalities are straightforward. Most visitors start from Grovane station, which has parking, a small museum, and ticketing for the Setesdal Line. Schedules are seasonal; check ahead for departure times, special event days, and whether the steam or diesel locomotive is running. The journey time to Røyknes station is short enough for families, and there are picnic-friendly spots at both ends. From Kristiansand, expect roughly 20–30 minutes by car to Grovane; public transport options vary by season, so planning is wise.
Why is this relevant to visitors to Kristiansand? First, it’s an authentic slice of regional culture: timber, waterpower, and rails shaped southern Norway’s economy and communities. Second, the trip pairs beautifully with other attractions, such as The City Museum (Kristiansand Museum) at Kongsgård or The Fish Market (Fiskebrygga) along the harbor. Finally, the Setesdal Line is fun—an accessible, photogenic experience where children marvel at the steam and enthusiasts savor the craftsmanship.
For an unforgettable day, ride the morning train to Røyknes station, linger for photos and a snack, then return in the afternoon light when the smoke plumes are most dramatic. You’ll carry home not only pictures, but the rhythm of the rails, the scent of pine and coal, and a deeper connection to Kristiansand’s inland heritage.