Tømmerrenna
A 4 km walk along the old timber flume from Grovane, with two suspension bridges and a low tunnel. The only one of its kind in Norway.
Closed for maintenance from 1 November 2026 to 31 March 2027.
Read moreWelcome to Vennesla
Experience authentic Southern Norway in the heart of the Otra Valley. Vennesla offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, stunning nature trails, and cozy dining experiences — perfect for a peaceful day trip or weekend getaway.
This page provides all the essential information you need as a visitor to make the most of your stay in Vennesla — whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, local cuisine, or cultural highlights.
If you’re looking for even more tips, brochures, or personal assistance with planning your visit, feel free to stop by the Cultural Centre (Kulturhuset) in Vennesla. Friendly staff will be happy to help you.
Contact information can be found at the bottom of this page.
Steinsfoss timber flume closed this winter
The timber flume at Steinsfoss (Tømmerrenna) is closed to visitors from 1 November 2026 to 31 March 2027 while the steel structures are being repaired.
Read more1. Historic timber flume
Walk along one of Norway’s most unique hiking experiences – the Tømmerrenna, a historic wooden water chute once used to float logs down the river. The scenic trail runs alongside the river Otra and through tunnels, offering beautiful views and a glimpse into local timber history. It’s an easy, family-friendly hike with unforgettable photo opportunities.
Before you go, read more about safety and access along the Tømmerrenna here.
📍 Timber flume on Google Maps
2. The Setesdal Railway
Step back in time with a ride on the Setesdal Railway, a preserved steam train that runs between Grovene and Røyknes during summer. Originally opened in the 1890s, this heritage railway offers a nostalgic journey through forests, tunnels, and across beautiful landscapes. A perfect activity for families and train enthusiasts alike.
📍 The Setesdal Railway on Google Maps
3. Bommen River Museum
Discover the story of timber floating and river culture along the Otra at Bommen Elvemuseum. This small open-air museum offers insight into the local history of forestry and how the river shaped the region. Located by the scenic riverside, it's a peaceful stop for curious visitors and nature lovers alike.
4. Vennesla Town Centre
Vennesla’s town center is the heart of the community, featuring a cozy pedestrian street lined with shops, cafés, and bakeries. Here you’ll find local clothing stores, a bookstore, and friendly spots to enjoy coffee or a sweet treat. It's the perfect place for a relaxed stroll and a taste of small-town Norwegian charm.
📍 Vennesla Sentrum on Google Maps
5. Hunsfos Business Park
Set in a former paper mill, Hunsfos Næringspark is now a vibrant business park with a creative twist. Explore a unique mix of local businesses, including a café, a microbrewery, an interior design shop, and a hair salon. The industrial setting adds character, and the area often hosts events, pop-up markets, and exhibitions.
📍 Hunsfos Næringspark on Google Maps
6. Vigeland Manor
An elegant 1800s manor surrounded by parkland and farm fields. The Manor Hosts art exhibits, cultural events, and has become a local landmark of historical significance. TrollAktiv offers activities for businesses and social gatherings. When the grassy area is not in use for events, it is open to everyone – beautifully situated in the historic surroundings along the Otra River.
You'll also find brand-new facilities for fishing, specially designed for people with reduced mobility – and the nearby swimming spot is simply magical.
📍 Vigeland Manor on Google Maps
7. Juvet Bungy
Feel the adrenaline at Juvet Bungy, a 57 metre bungy jump above the gorge and waterfall Kravlefossen in Øvrebø. Walk out on the 40 metre suspension bridge, look down at the river below and take the leap for one of Norway's most spectacular bungy jumps. Just a short drive from Vennesla town centre, this is a must for thrill seekers.
Book your jump at juvetbungy.no.
Tourist information
Stop by Vennesla Library & Culture House for maps, brochures and tips on what to see and do in Vennesla. The building has won several architecture awards, so it's worth a look even if you don't need directions.
Opening hours
| Monday | 10:00 to 16:00 |
| Tuesday | 10:00 to 16:00 |
| Wednesday | 10:00 to 16:00 |
| Thursday | 10:00 to 18:00 |
| Friday | 10:00 to 16:00 |
| Saturday | 11:00 to 15:00 |
| Sunday | Closed |
Summer (July to 11 August): Monday to Friday 10:00 to 16:00. Closed on Saturdays, and no late opening on Thursdays.
Hours can change with the seasons. Check the Culture House page
Get in touch
Vennesla Culture House
Share your photos with #visitvennesla
Hikes
Forest, river and hills right outside the door. Around 300 routes in Vennesla are logged on UT.no.
Strandstien
An easy walk along the river from the town centre to Nesane, with benches along the way. Pair it with a coffee in town.
Read moreCycle Route 3
Part of the Norwegian National Cycle Route. Follow the Otra valley north towards Setesdal.
More trails
Marked trails across the hills of Vennesla, Øvrebø and Hægeland, and the Moseidhytta day cabin for a lunch break.
Go to UT.noWhere to eat
Bakeries, cafés, restaurants and pubs. Whether you want a proper meal or just a coffee and a cinnamon bun, you'll find it in town.
Restaurants and pubs
Sit down for lunch or dinner, or grab a beer after a day on the trails.
See the mapCafés and bakeries
Fresh bakes and good coffee, perfect before or after a walk along Strandstien. Try the sourdough and pizza at Fabriken Artisan Bakverk, at Hunsfos Næringspark and in Atrium Senter, or stop by Moseid Bakeri.
Shopping
Small town shopping with local stores, all within walking distance.
Atrium Senter and Gågata
Atrium is a small shopping centre in the middle of town with practical stores and services. Right outside is the pedestrian street, with local clothing stores, a bookstore, cafés and bakeries.
Open in Google MapsHunsfos Næringspark
The old paper mill by the river is now home to a café, a microbrewery, an interior shop and a hair salon. Keep an eye out for markets and exhibitions.
Open in Google MapsSwimming
Cool off in the river, find a quiet lake or head indoors when the weather turns.
Kuleberget
Diving and swimming spot on Venneslafjorden, right by Strandstien.
Google MapsVigeland Manor
A lovely swimming spot by the river, plus new fishing facilities built for people with reduced mobility.
Google MapsLakes
Drivenesvannet, Lomtjønna, Sangeslandsvannet and Linvannet on Kvarsteinheia are all worth the trip on a warm day.
Vennesla svømmehall
The indoor pool people drive in from all over the region to visit. A safe bet on rainy days.
Google MapsGetting around
You don't need a car to see Vennesla. Kristiansand, the airport and the ferry to Denmark are all about 25 minutes away.
Bus
AKT runs the local buses. Bus 31 leaves Kristiansand every hour and stops at Vennesla station and Grovane.
TimetablesTrain
All Vy trains on Sørlandsbanen stop at Vennesla station.
TicketsSetesdalsbanen
Norway's oldest and longest heritage railway. Ride the old train from Grovane to Røyknes.
TimetableBy car
Take E18 to Kristiansand and follow the signs to Vennesla. There are several parking areas near the town centre and Tømmerrenna.