About This Hike
Rakssetra is a traditional mountain farm on the slope below Hoven near Loen, with wide views toward Loen, Olden and the surrounding valleys. For the short, self-powered version, start at the paid Oppheim/Holme car park: follow the construction road toward Hoven through the first bends, then take the signed path left to Rakssetra. The route is roughly 1.5 km each way and climbs steadily through forest and open ground; it is short, but not flat, and can be slippery after the heavy rainfall common in Nordfjord. The seter lies around 540 metres above sea level. Rakssetra can also be incorporated into a much longer descent from Hoven/Loen Skylift, but that is a different route with a transport plan at the bottom. The buildings remain privately used holiday homes, so the value of the visit is the marked path, cultural landscape and fjord view — not access to the cabins themselves.
Highlights
- ✓ Traditional mountain-farm setting
- ✓ Views toward Loen and Olden
- ✓ Marked paths and gravel-road sections
- ✓ Option to incorporate Rakssetra in a longer Hoven-to-Holme descent
Getting There
Paid parking at Oppheim/Holme, just before the barrier. From Loen, follow Fv60 toward Stryn, turn toward Oppheim and follow signs to the parking area.
Before You Go
Decide whether you are walking from Oppheim or descending from Hoven before you set out; both are often called the Rakssetra walk, but they have very different time, elevation and return-transport requirements. For the short route, use the designated paid parking before the barrier, follow the signed turn from the construction road and keep to the path around the privately used cabins. In winter, treat this as a snow-condition trip rather than an ordinary year-round stroll.
Information checked: September 2026 against Loen Skylift and Visit Nordfjord information.
⚠️ Safety Notes
- The short route from Oppheim is steep throughout, with wet ground common after rain; wear footwear with grip and use care on the descent.
- Route length and difficulty change substantially if you start from the Hoven area rather than Oppheim; do not treat them as the same walk.
- Check current trail conditions and weather, as snow can linger beyond the advertised walking season.
- Respect that Rakssetra's buildings are privately used holiday homes.