How to get to Simlebu:
Seljestad to Simlebu, 17.2 km and approx. 6 hours' walking:
This is a moderately demanding hike, following T-marked trails on the west side of the E134, along an old construction road to Steinavatnet, and then heading north-west. In varied terrain, you will have views of Vintertun and Rullestad along the trail. Continue south along the south-east side of Sandbotnevatna. Eventually, you will see a large cairn that guides you to the right ledge below Bordalsnuten, where you will have a view of Simlebu. Then round the peak and descend to Såtekvelven, crossing the Bordalselva river via a bridge further down. The trail continues on the west side of the river, passing Nystølen and Simlebu. The hike should only be undertaken in good weather with a map, compass, good equipment and sufficient food. You can return the same way or walk down to Skromme and take the bus to Seljestad to pick up your car. Parking is available at Heskjabakk (‘brushytta’) in Seljestad.
From Rullestadvatnet to Simlebu, 7.9 km approx. 2 1/2 hours:
You start by walking along a river and on a tractor road until you reach the old ski jump at Rullestad (also called “Togangsbakken”). Then you encounter a relatively steep climb up through beautiful forest terrain to Svanberg. Here you get a great view down to Rullestad. Afterwards, you continue into new forest terrain with a moderate climb to the so-called ‘Mjølkestølen’. Here you will meet a trail from Skromme, which you follow up to the cabin. On the way down from Simlebu, follow the T letters eastwards from Simlebu and down towards ‘Mjølkestølen’ and Åkrafjorden. Always remember to bring a map and compass, as well as good hiking boots and equipment.
Practical information:
- Self-service
- 36 beds
- Open all year round, can be used all year round as long as you have good equipment
- Unlocked
- Dogs are allowed in the outbuilding of the security cabin (dog cage), but not in the living room or bedrooms
- There is generally little mobile phone coverage in the Etne Mountains, but there is a notice in the cabin indicating the nearest place with coverage
- You can find potholes, swimming pools and beautiful waterfalls in streams and rivers not far from the cabin.
For more information, check out: https://ut.no/hytte/10192/simlebu
