Tysnessåto (753 m) is the highest mountain on Tysnes and one of the most popular hiking destinations on the island. At the top you get beautiful views in all directions.

The fastest and most used trail to Såto goes from Myrdal. If you start here, you quickly gain altitude – it doesn’t take many minutes before you get a nice view of the fjord. Uphill from Buskaret and Gråuro it is quite steep, but over 1000 steps in solid stone have made the trip easier for many people. The fittest hikers reach the top in under an hour, but there is no reason to rush in this beautiful nature. Along the way there are several nice stone resting places where you can take a breather. You will definitely be impressed by the great work that the Sherpas from Nepal have put into the area.

When you finish the last section of stairs and reach the top of the mountain, the terrain flattens out more – and the last part towards the cairn is in open and nice terrain.

The hike is suitable for most people who are in normal good shape. Remember good hiking shoes with ankle support, dress for the weather and plenty of drinks. You can basically walk to Tysnessåto from Myrdal all year round, but in case of snow or ice you should consider the conditions carefully.

Three good tips for those of you who want to go on this trip:

1. During the summer season, it is popular to stop by Myrdal Farm after the tour. Here you can get stone-oven baked pizza, homemade ice cream, cheese and other locally produced goodies.
2. Tysnesfjellet is big! Feel free to take a detour to the idyllic Ådnastegen farm – or maybe all the way to Hovlandsnuten if you feel you're in good shape.
3. The expression "all roads lead to Rome" also applies to Tysnessåto. If you want a longer and less steep hike, you can, for example, start from Dalen, Skaret or Solheimsdalen. If you have someone to pick you up, it is very nice to take one route up and another down.

Practical info about the trip

Parking

There are signs to Tysnessåto from county road 549. Turn left just before Myrdal farm and follow the gravel road up to the parking lot. If it is full here, you can drive about 500 meters back, where there are more parking options (see signs at the site).

Labeling

There is an information board at the starting point, and the trail is well marked all the way. The Sherpa stairs make it easy to find your way, and where there are no stairs, there is a clear path.

Rating

Red – medium demanding. Some sections without stairs require some high knee lifts and being steady on your feet.

Height difference

The highest parking lot is located at about 215 meters above sea level. Total climb from here is just under 540 meters. Length 3.9 km

Time usage

Approximately 2-2.5 hours round trip.

Good luck!