Why live in Gjerstad?

Gjerstad is a rural municipality in eastern Agder, offering a peaceful environment with close proximity to both coastline and uplands. With around 2,500 inhabitants, Gjerstad features excellent transport links via the E18 and the Sørlandsbanen railway, making it a convenient place to live and work. This close-knit community is supported by a growing commercial centre at Brokelandsheia, where modern services, business opportunities, and plentiful amenities ensure a comfortable everyday life.

Living in Gjerstad

Gjerstad is a small, close-knit municipality where rural tranquillity meets practical convenience. Located in eastern Agder, it provides a peaceful setting alongside the E18 motorway and the Sørlandsbanen railway, making travel to nearby towns and cities straightforward. Whether you settle near Kirkebygda, the administrative centre, or opt for new developments at Brokelandsheia, there are varied housing options to suit different preferences and budgets.

Everyday life in Gjerstad is supported by reliable public services, including a local school and nursery facilities that prioritise children’s well-being and development. The community takes pride in its heritage, with landmarks such as Gjerstad Church and the striking “Paraskatellipse” art installation reflecting the municipality’s deep cultural roots. Historic sites like Bjorvasstua and Eikelands Verk illustrate this long-standing appreciation for tradition.

Gjerstad is also rich in natural assets. Forests, lakes, and well-marked trails offer a wide choice of outdoor activities throughout the year, from fishing and hunting to cross-country skiing and hiking. This close connection to nature, coupled with practical amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, makes Gjerstad a rewarding place for new residents seeking a balanced and family-friendly environment. With its strong community spirit, good transport links, and scenic surroundings, Gjerstad offers both comfort and opportunity for those considering a move here.

Places to live in Gjerstad

Activities in Gjerstad

Gjerstad offers plenty of ways to embrace the outdoors, with diverse hiking paths, ski trails, and prime fishing and hunting grounds. Drivheia and Vestølmarka boast well-groomed ski routes, while areas like Solhomfjell and Risfjell provide remarkable nature experiences in designated reserves.

Families can enjoy the Little Zoo (Den Lille Dyrehage) at Brokelandsheia, showcasing exotic animals and play areas for children.

For a unique getaway, the treetop cabins at Valle (Trehyttene) offer overnight stays high among the branches.

Local swimming spots, including Sandåkerhølen and Stea, add to the variety of leisure activities, and Gjerstad’s scenic walking and cycling routes appeal to those who relish an active lifestyle.

Study in Gjerstad

For children under the age of six, the Visedal kindergarten is divide into two locations: Renstøl, close to Brokelandsheia, and Alvheim in Kirkebygda.

Abel skole is the municipality’s sole primary and lower secondar school, with around 250 students.

For upper secondary education, students typically travel to neighbouring areas such as Risør or Tvedestrand.

Adult learning and skill development programmes are offered through regional providers, and the Gjerstad library hosts a language café for anyone wishing to practise Norwegian in a friendly and inclusive setting.

Work in Gjerstad

Brokelandsheia has emerged as Gjerstad’s principal hub for employment, housing around 35 businesses that employ more than 300 people.

While retail and services dominate, Gjerstad Mek. Industrier stands out as a key enterprise, manufacturing buckets and digging equipment for tractors and construction machinery. With 109 electric vehicle chargers, Brokelandsheia is also a significant transit site, attracting both entrepreneurs and established companies.

Traditional industries such as agriculture and forestry continue to play an important role, and the E18 and Sørlandsbanen railway make commuting to neighbouring municipalities straightforward.