Startsted
The walk starts on Lyseveien between Sirdal and Lysebotn, about one km west of Grydalen. You can park in the Børsteinshytta car park, which you will find on the opposite side of the road to the path.
Route description:
Start walking in a north-westerly direction. After about 5 minutes, you’ll reach the stream flowing down from Matupstjødne. Follow this upstream to Matupstjødne. From here, the path follows a small hill on the southern side of the lake. You then climb gradually towards the path’s highest point. At 970 metres, you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent view of Lyseheiane. From here, you begin the descent towards Andersvatnet. First, you must zigzag down three-quarters of a steep scree slope, before following the rock face of Vardekleivane on your right. After about 100 metres, you’ll cross the stream that flows down to Andersvatnet. The path continues westwards; the terrain becomes increasingly undulating, and it can be challenging to find your way. You should therefore pay close attention to the markings and your GPS, if you have one. You’ll pass several small lakes before reaching a ravine that takes you down towards Pollen (lake). The path winds its way down this ravine, and you’ll be treated to a magnificent view of the waterfall cascading down from Toknuten. At the bottom of the ravine, you’ll cross the stream flowing down from Andersvatnet. From here, the path gradually climbs over rocky ground before you reach a valley that you should follow. Towards the top of the valley, the high mountains of Lysedalen come into view on your right, giving you a glimpse of what lies ahead on the rest of the walk. Lysedalen is one of the region’s wildest valleys, with its 800–900-metre-high steep mountain slopes plunging down into almost impassable terrain. At the end of the valley, you’ll climb over a scree slope before descending the gully to a green, sheltered spot with fresh mountain water. This spot is ideal for a rest. Follow the stream further down to where it winds 90 degrees around the mountains down towards Lysedalen. It’s hard not to be spellbound here! The mighty mountains that make up Lysedalen greet you in all their enchanting splendour. This is not the place for anyone with a fear of heights! Like the stream, you too will change direction (northwards), and should allow around 1½ hours to make your way down the sheer mountainside. Walk carefully in a zigzag pattern downwards. From around 420 m, you’ll come to the birch forest. It can be a challenge to find the path here, as it also winds its way in a zigzag through the dense woodland. Look out for both cairns and red marks on the trees in the forest. At a prominent rock outcrop, the path turns 90 degrees towards the innermost farms you can see far down in Lysebotn. At 85 m, turn right, heading towards where you’ll cross the river by climbing over some large rocks. There is a wire attached to one of the boulders, which makes the crossing a breeze. Follow the right-hand side of the river westwards. You’ll come to a sheep pasture and pass through a gate that leads you into the grounds of the innermost farm in Lysebotn. Remember to close the gate behind you. Cross the pasture diagonally and use the steps that have been put up to cross the fence at the other end of the pasture. After 100 metres, you’ll come to another fence, and go through the small gate into the car park by the farm.
Cultural heritage sites:
Rideveg
Former mountain dairy farm
Grading: Demanding
Length: 9.5 km
Ascent: 928 m
Marking: DNT's red Ts
Season: June to September
Duration: Approx. 6 hours