This beautiful, protected area is located in Sæland in Øvre Time, just east of the lake, Taksdalsvatnet. Here you can experience both the natural and cultural landscape of the inner Jæren townlets, perfect for a quiet hike or a nature experience in the middle of Jæren.
The nature reserve at the lake, Taksdalsvatnet
The walk starts at the car park and goes through a lush forest and over a stream before you enter the Sæland nature reserve. Here, you will find an information board telling you about the plants and animals in the area, as well as the conservation rules. A clear and well-maintained trail follows south along Taksdalsvatnet, before turning east along the north side of Uråna.
Old oak trees and Urådalen
Along the way, the trail passes under old, crooked and wind-worn oak trees – some of which are real giants with many years behind them. The trail continues into the valley towards Engjavatnet lake, and the landscape opens up to the peaceful surroundings of the valley.
The history of Bjødnalia farm
At Engjavatnet is the abandoned Bjødnalia farm in a varied cultural landscape. Here you can see stone fences and house walls reminiscent of Fanuel Eidland and his family, who lived here around 1850. The house was large by the standards of the time, and the barn had room for ten cows. Life was still hard, however, and several members of the family died young.
Hikes along Engjavatnet and Blåfjellet mountain
From Bjødnalia, you can return along a farm road on the north side of Engjavatnet lake, over the hill northeast to Kleiva, and back to Sæland. Alternatively, you can walk back through Urådalen and further north towards Blåfjellet. Here you will find heathland and impressive views of Jæren, before the trail leads you down through the oak forest back to Taksdalsvatnet.
