Why live in Åmli?

Åmli is an inland municipality in southern Norway, with a population of about 1,800 residents. It offers a peaceful lifestyle for those wanting to live close to nature, featuring impressive mountains, rivers, and forests for hunting, fishing, swimming, skiing, and hiking. Despite its small size, Åmli benefits from key transport links: two main roads pass through the municipality, and trains on the Sørlandsbanen connect travellers with Stavanger, Kristiansand, and Oslo. A local train to Arendal also makes commuting straightforward, with larger towns such as Tvedestrand and Arendal within easy reach by road.

Living in Åmli

Although Åmli is home to a modest population, its close-knit community offers a variety of facilities and services. Families have access to good schools, sports activities, cultural events, and shops. Around one-third of residents live in the centre of Åmli, where the main school, kindergartens, shops, and public services are conveniently located within walking distance. Life here combines the serenity of nature with the essentials for modern living, all in a welcoming local setting.

Activities in Åmli

Åmli is known for its diverse outdoor pursuits:
Hiking in the mountains and forests, with 20 marked trails collectively known as Top Åmli
A day-trip cabin (dagsturhytta) at Trogfjell, offering panoramic views of Åmli’s centre
Elvarheim museum, which explores the area’s cultural and natural history
Hillestad gallery in Tovdal, featuring art exhibitions, a café, and nearby trails and ski routes
Two via ferrata climbing routes on Trogfjell, an exhilarating choice for those comfortable with heights
Åmli–Treungen biking path, following a former railway line and passing scenic swimming spots; a summer bus service can transport bikes one way

Food and hospitality also form part of Åmli’s appeal. The local bakery in the main street is a favourite stop for both residents and visitors, while Åmfoss kafeteria serves a variety of meals right in the centre. Åmli gårdsmeieri offers fresh, locally produced dairy—including highly praised ice cream—and several honey producers in the area have earned international recognition for their quality honey.

Study in Åmli

Åmli has two kindergartens in the centre—Beverborga and Klokkargarden—as well as smaller options on the municipality’s outskirts. Children from years 1 to 10 attend Åmli school, which sits close to local amenities and outdoor recreation spots. For upper secondary education, the nearest school is in Tvedestrand, around 45 minutes by bus. Some students choose daily commutes, while others rent small apartments closer to the school. Further study options lie at the University of Agder, with campuses in Grimstad and Kristiansand.

Work in Åmli

Åmli’s economy remains closely tied to its vast forests, both in primary industries such as forestry and in secondary industries, including timber production. The largest private employer is Bergene Holm, a sawmill with around 100 staff. Public-sector roles also account for many jobs. Thanks to road and rail links, commuting to bigger towns is a practical option, giving residents a broader range of employment opportunities while still enjoying the benefits of Åmli’s tranquil lifestyle.