Suleskard road (Suleskardvegen) is one of Southern Norway’s great scenic mountain crossings, linking the inland valley of Setesdal (Setesdal) with the fjord-carved Ryfylke (Ryfylke) region and the dramatic highlands of Sirdal (Sirdal). For visitors basing themselves in Kristiansand (Kristiansand), it’s a rewarding day trip or multi-day loop that swaps the city’s sandy beaches and urban cafes for sweeping moorland, mirror-still lakes, and weather-hewn boulders. Though the road itself runs far north of the city, Kristiansand is a natural starting point thanks to its ferry connections, busy airport, and well-developed tourism services.
Historically, the route over Suleskard (Suleskard) follows older paths used by herders and traders moving between the fertile coast and the upland summer farms. The modern road was completed in stages during the late 20th century to improve access for remote communities and to open the high plateau for tourism. It quickly became a favorite among Norwegians who relish quiet, high-country roads and the sense of vast space found above the treeline. Today, Suleskard road functions as both a practical link and an experiential journey—one that pairs perfectly with the cultural attractions of Kristiansand.
One of the most distinctive features of Suleskard road is its seasonal character. The mountain pass is typically open from late May or early June until late autumn, depending on snowfall; in winter it is closed to protect both travelers and the reindeer that roam the plateau. This seasonality adds drama to early summer openings, when walls of snow may still fringe the shoulders, and to September and October, when autumn colors ignite the heaths. Always check road status on the Norwegian Public Roads Administration website before you go, and plan fuel and food stops in advance—services are sparse between villages.
From Kristiansand, most travelers approach Suleskard road via the inland artery to Evje (Evje) and Valle (Valle) in Setesdal, before turning west toward the pass and down to Sirdal. The circuit can be completed by looping back toward Lysebotn (Lysebotn) and, for the adventurous, connecting with the famous Lysefjord (Lysefjorden) region, home to iconic hikes like the Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) and Kjerag (Kjerag). While Suleskard road is not an official National Tourist Route (Nasjonale turistveger), the scenery is comparable: windswept lakes, rolling granite, and close encounters with Norway’s stark, beautiful highlands.
Practical tips help turn a good drive into a great one. Start early to enjoy emptier roads and better light for photography. Pack layers—the weather on the plateau changes quickly, even on sunny days. If you’re keen on hiking, short spur walks lead to viewpoints above the road, and anglers will find promising waters where permits are sold locally. Families appreciate the mix of driving and short stops, and motorcyclists prize the gentle curves and open sightlines. Wildlife sightings—especially reindeer and birdlife—are common; drive cautiously and give animals space.
Why is Suleskard road relevant to visitors staying in Kristiansand? It offers a dramatic contrast to the city’s coastal vibe and an accessible taste of Norway’s mountain landscapes without committing to long, technical hikes. The journey showcases the country’s variety within a single day’s reach: from maritime south to alpine plateau and back again. Combine it with Setesdal Museum (Setesdalsmuseet) for folklore and crafts, or with a night in a mountain lodge in Sirdal for stargazing under crisp, dark skies. For road-trippers, photographers, and anyone craving the open road, Suleskard road is an unforgettable detour from Kristiansand into the wild heart of Southern Norway.