Songdalen is a rural district in southern Norway. Only 10 minutes by car from the shopping streets of Kristiansand, Songdalen boasts beautiful scenery and is only a short trip away from the coast in neighbouring Søgne.
Greipstad is a small place, which is mentioned as early as 1344. Throughout mediaeval times, Greipstad consisted of 34 farms. Although Finsland, a bit further from the coast, has few historic data, it is worth mentioning that a small part of a 1000-year-old ski was found here. In 1913 Greipstad became an administrative district of its own when it was separated from Søgne. In 1964 Greipstad and Finsland, and a small part of Øvrebø, merged to form the district of Songdalen.
Songdalen is 217 km2 and had a population of 5500 in January 2004.
The landscape was formed during the last ice age, some 10,000 years ago. The movement of the ice produced debris which formed moraines. Part of the great morainic ridge that stretches across southern Norway can be seen in the Finsland moors in the north of Songdalen.
The prehistoric coastline is relatively low, only 30 metres above sea level. Signs of the old coastline can be seen in the form of a great gorge at Underåsen hill. From here, the Songdalselva river flows in distinct meanders down the flat and wide valley of Songdalen.
Except for the northern areas, Songdalen has a coastal climate. Deciduous woods and pine trees characterise the southern parts, while pine woods and spruce dominate the northern parts. Finsland has been known to have one of the world's most dense populations of moose. Hare, beaver and roe deer are also found in abundance.
Songdalen has a rich cultural heritage spanning a long period of time, including examples of architecture, forestry and old walking routes. In Røysland, Finsland there is an old cairn, and this is also the site of some old runic inscriptions. At Brennåsen you can see the remains of a water mill from the late 19th century, and in Spikkeland there is a water-powered saw mill which is still running. From Farvannet over Groheia there is a postal route dating from 1791. Extensive fortifications from both world wars can be found at lake Rossevann.
Songdalen is a popular place for hiking and outdoor recreation. There is vast network of hiking paths, public areas and lakes suitable for swimming. Most of the paths go through the countryside and are also ideal for biking.
