4.8
(8)
33
hikers
4
hikes
Hiking in Mellandsvågen Dyrelivsfredning offers diverse landscapes on the western part of Skardsøya island. The area features a fjord mouth, several islands, and a headland, encompassing extensive beach meadows, damp heath, and nutrient-poor bogs. Hikers can find panoramic views from elevated points like Rostolen, overlooking surrounding islands and the sea. This region is recognized for its significant wetland ecosystems and rich birdlife.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
3
hikers
7.06km
01:58
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
6
hikers
4.84km
01:17
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4
hikers
3.76km
01:04
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
6.68km
01:55
160m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
13
hikers
10.00km
03:27
530m
530m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Fjordruta provides gorgeous views across Rostolvatnet here, with the broad top of Rostolen rising above. You'll also notice the Rovangen DNT cabin, a charming place to stay while exploring the region. If you've brought your rod, you'll be pleased to know that the lake provides great fishing.
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This section of the Fjordruta provides superb views of Rostolen and Pikfjellet, as well as out towards the islands of Grisvågøya and Skardsøya. It's not far from here to the top of Rostolen. Meanwhile, the DNT cabin of Rovangen is also close. It enjoys a lovely spot on Rostolvatnet.
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Rovangen is a charming DNT facility on Rostolvatnet. It's a self-service cabin with a total of 24 beds across the two buildings. There's excellent fishing on the lake, while the nearby peak of Rostolen provides great sea views out towards Smøla.
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Summit with a nice view towards Smøla, near Rovangen (DNT)
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Very lovely cabin , right on the lake for some clean water 💧 and a lovely view !
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View of the Rostolvatnet and the Rovangen hut.
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DNT hut (open with DNT key), which operates on a self-sufficient basis (food storage) and has 14 beds. Outstanding is the secluded location of the hut amidst several peaks and located directly on the mountain lake Rovatnet. A rowing boat is also available a few meters from the cabin. Further information: https://www.ut.no/hytte/3.1823/
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Mellandsvågen Dyrelivsfredning offers a range of hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels. Most routes are considered easy, featuring coastal paths and gentle ascents. However, there are also more challenging options with ascents up to 900 meters, requiring good physical condition and sure-footedness.
There are 5 hiking trails documented in Mellandsvågen Dyrelivsfredning, ranging from easy coastal walks to a more moderate route leading to a cabin.
Hikers can expect diverse landscapes, including extensive beach meadows, damp heath, and nutrient-poor bogs. The area encompasses a fjord mouth, several islands, and a headland, offering varied coastal environments. Panoramic views are a highlight, especially from elevated points like Rostolen, overlooking surrounding islands and the sea towards Smøla.
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, the Rovangen Cabin (DNT) – View of Rostolvatnet loop from Aure naturreservat is a moderate 10 km route with over 500 meters of elevation gain. This trail leads to the charming Rovangen DNT Cabin, which serves as a base for exploring the peak of Rostolen and offers excellent fishing on the lake.
Absolutely. Mellandsvågen Dyrelivsfredning is recognized as a Ramsar site and a wildlife sanctuary, making it crucial for overwintering waterfowl. Hikers can enjoy excellent birdwatching opportunities, observing various species of loons, grebes, and ducks, particularly during the migration seasons.
As a wildlife sanctuary, Mellandsvågen Dyrelivsfredning has specific regulations regarding dogs to protect its rich birdlife and ecosystems. Dogs are generally allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times. It's advisable to check local signage for any seasonal restrictions, especially during breeding periods.
Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Melland Coastal Walk – Jutulnasen loop from Mellandsvågen naturreservat and the Jutulnasen loop from Mellandsvågen naturreservat, both offering convenient circular options for exploring the coastal terrain.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse coastal landscapes, the panoramic views from elevated points, and the opportunities for birdwatching. The variety of trails, from easy walks to more challenging ascents, is also frequently highlighted.
Yes, Mellandsvågen Dyrelivsfredning offers several easy trails that are well-suited for families. Routes like the Melland Coastal Walk loop from Mellandsvågen naturreservat provide accessible paths through varied coastal environments, making them enjoyable for all ages. The diverse landscapes and birdlife also offer engaging points of interest for children.
The best time to visit for hiking is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (May to September) when the weather is milder and trails are most accessible. For birdwatching, the overwintering period and migration seasons offer prime opportunities to observe the rich birdlife.
Hikers can look for the extensive and diverse beach meadow communities, particularly south of Livsneset and around Storholmen. The prominent peaks of Rostolen and Pikfjellet offer superb panoramic views. The area's status as a Ramsar site also means you'll encounter significant wetland ecosystems and a rich variety of birdlife.


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