About

About

In November 1870, Paris was under siege by Prussian forces. The city was cut off from the outside world, and to send vital communication to French military forces behind the Prussian lines, hot air balloons were used.

At the end of November 1870, a balloon was launched from Paris. It was carried away by strong winds, and 15 hours later, two French balloon pilots landed in a snow-covered landscape on Lifjell in Telemark. This marked the first aerial journey to Norway.

Today, there is a hiking trail to this site, suitable for all ages and activity levels.

Practical Information

Distance: 2.6 km

Duration: 30 minutes

Difficulty level: Easy

Toll road: NOK 100

About the hike

This is an easily accessible hike, well suited for families with children and those looking for a short walk with both views and historical significance.

From the parking area at the top of Stigfjellet (at the end of the road), the hike begins on a gravel road. After a few hundred meters, turn left onto a marked trail, which you follow uphill until you reach Ballongfararsteinen (the Balloon Pilots’ Stone).

There is also a lovely day-use cabin here, which visitors are welcome to use.

Alternative route:

For those who want a longer and steeper hike, it is also possible to start from the bottom of Stigfjellet. This route is significantly longer and steeper, and is better suited for those who enjoy more demanding hikes.

How to get to Ballongfararsteinen

Drive from Seljord town centre along road 36, and take the exit towards the Strond farms (Stigfjellvegen), about 10 km from Seljord centre.

Follow Stigfjellvegen past the Strond farm, where it is signposted to Ballongfararsteinen. Continue along the road past the Manheim farm and all the way to the parking area (6–7 km from road 36).

On the way up, you’ll have great views over Seljord and Seljordsvatnet.

Maps can be found at the tourist information centre or by downloading the Fintur app!