Location and surroundings
Svinkekollen is located in Norway, specifically within the municipality of Drammen in the district of Buskerud. Within the broader geographical hierarchy, it sits in the Fennoscandian Shield, the Scandinavian Mountains, the Southern Scandes, the Southern Highlands, and the sub-range of Meheia/Skrim/Sauheradfjella. Within this specific regional mountain group containing 1364 named peaks, Svinkekollen ranks as the 755th highest elevation. The surrounding landscape consists of typical high-latitude hills, forests, and valleys characteristic of the region.
Neighbouring peaks
The landscape surrounding Svinkekollen features several other summits at varying distances and directions. Notable neighbouring elevations within a 25-kilometre radius include:
- Snaukollen, 653 m, 21.2 km NW
- Sirikjerke, 635 m, 9.4 km W
- Vestfjellet, 634 m, 13.3 km SW
Compared to these higher neighbouring summits, Svinkekollen is a more modest hill, standing at 330 metres elevation while remaining well integrated into the local topography of Buskerud.
The view from the summit
From the top of Svinkekollen, observers can look out across the surrounding terrain towards several significant regional summits. The highest peaks within a 25-kilometre radius include Sirikjerke at 635 metres located 9.4 kilometres to the west, Vestfjellet reaching 634 metres at 13.3 kilometres to the southwest, and Snaukollen at 653 metres situated 21.2 kilometres to the northwest. These prominent regional giants shape the skyline visible from the summit on clear days.
The range
Svinkekollen belongs to the Meheia/Skrim/Sauheradfjella mountain range, which forms part of the wider Southern Highlands, Southern Scandes, Scandinavian Mountains, and the Fennoscandian Shield. The highest peak of this range is Jonsknuten, which reaches 904 metres and is located 33 kilometres to the west of Svinkekollen. The range contains 1364 named peaks in total, spanning the regional landscape, and Svinkekollen holds the 755th position by elevation among them.
Getting there
Reaching Svinkekollen is possible via nearby settlements, transport links, and parking areas mapped in OpenStreetMap. The nearest settlements are the village of Konnerud, located 5.6 kilometres to the north, and the village of Klevjerhagen, situated 6.0 kilometres to the southeast. For public transport users, the Andorsrud bus stop lies 2.0 kilometres to the north of the top. Additionally, there are two car parks within 2 kilometres of the summit, with the nearest one positioned 1.6 kilometres to the northeast.
Climate and weather
Climate estimates derived from NASA POWER data covering the period from 2001 to 2020 provide an overview of conditions at the summit of Svinkekollen, with temperatures adjusted for its elevation. The mean temperature at the summit reaches a warmest month average in July of about 16 °C and a coldest month average in January of about -5 °C. Mean temperatures remain above freezing at the summit from April through October. Precipitation in the surrounding area totals about 1,300 millimetres annually, with August being the wettest month recording about 135 millimetres, and March the driest at about 70 millimetres.
Best time to visit
Based on climate data for the summit elevation, the most favourable months to visit Svinkekollen are from April to October, during which the monthly mean temperatures remain above freezing. July represents the warmest period with averages around 16 °C, making it suitable for walking and exploring the terrain. Conversely, winter months such as January experience mean temperatures around -5 °C with colder, more demanding conditions. Visitors should monitor local forecasts and prepare for varying weather typical of the Buskerud region throughout the year.
Nature and wildlife
The natural environment around Svinkekollen features the typical flora and fauna of the Fennoscandian Shield and Scandinavian Mountains region. The terrain supports mixed woodlands, characteristic mountain vegetation, and open hill slopes suited to local wildlife species adapted to the Scandinavian climate. Walkers traversing the area may encounter local bird life and forest mammals native to Norway, while experiencing the rugged, natural landscape of the Southern Highlands.
Practical tips
A walk to Svinkekollen is an easy outing that requires appropriate preparation for local conditions. Walkers should wear sturdy footwear suitable for rocky or muddy terrain and pack a windproof layer to counter changes in weather at elevation. During the warmer months, ticks can be present in the vegetation, so skin checks are advised. In the event of an emergency, the emergency number for mountain rescue and police is 112, while medical emergencies should be directed to 113. Mountain rescue services provided by the police and volunteer corps are free of charge.
Interesting facts
Svinkekollen stands out as a minor summit that contributes to the extensive topography of the Meheia/Skrim/Sauheradfjella group in Norway. Ranking 755th out of 1364 named peaks in its range, it is overshadowed by the much higher regional apex of Jonsknuten at 904 metres, located 33 kilometres away. Its proximity to local communities like Konnerud and its accessibility via nearby parking facilities make it a notable point of interest within the Drammen municipality.
FAQ
How high is Svinkekollen? Svinkekollen reaches an elevation of 330 metres above sea level.Where is Svinkekollen located? It is located in Norway, within the municipality of Drammen in the county of Buskerud, as part of the Meheia/Skrim/Sauheradfjella range.
How do I get to Svinkekollen? Visitors can approach from the nearest car park located 1.6 kilometres northeast of the top, or from the village of Konnerud situated 5.6 kilometres north. The Andorsrud bus stop is also located 2.0 kilometres north of the summit.
What is the estimated walking time to the top? From the car park 1.6 kilometres northeast of the top, covering about 2.1 kilometres on foot with 170 metres of ascent, the rough walking time is an estimated 35 to 50 minutes. From Konnerud, covering about 7.2 kilometres on foot with 110 metres of ascent, it takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. These are estimates from distance and height gain, and the real path may be longer.
What is visible from the summit? On clear days, walkers can see major regional heights within 25 kilometres, including Sirikjerke, Vestfjellet, and Snaukollen.
What is the mobile phone coverage like on Svinkekollen? There are 26 mobile phone and other communication masts mapped within 10 kilometres of the summit, with the nearest located 3.2 kilometres northeast. While signals are likely present on the open top with masts in sight, coverage in hills can be patchy in deep valleys or behind ridges. The emergency number 112 reaches emergency services over any available network, and maps should be downloaded before setting out.