Along the Vestfold coast, marked walking trails lead through woodland, past beaches and across rocky shores overlooking the sea. You will find routes from Holmestrand and Horten in the north to Larvik and Helgeroa in the south. Choose a short local walk, a circular route or a longer point-to-point hike. The coastal trails have different starting points, distances and terrain. Choose your preferred section and check its local route description before setting out.
Coastal walks in Larvik and Stavern
Approximately 35 kilometres of marked coastal trails connect the areas around Stavern, Nevlunghavn and Helgeroa. The landscape alternates between sandy beaches, smooth coastal rocks, woodland and sheltered bays. Choose a shorter section for a relaxed walk by the sea or plan a longer outing along the coastline.
Explore the Sandefjord coast
Sandefjord has approximately 45 kilometres of marked coastal trails across the Vesterøya and Østerøya peninsulas. On Vesterøya, the paths lead towards Folehavna, where coastal woodland and rocky shores meet the remains of a former coastal fort. Østerøya offers routes towards Yxney, with varied natural scenery near the outer end of the peninsula.
Walking on Tjøme, Hvasser and Nøtterøy
Færder Municipality offers both shorter coastal walks and longer circular routes. On Hvasser, you can choose a short circular walk via Sandøsund and Lilleskagen, as well as longer routes around the island. In Moutmarka on Tjøme, the trail crosses an exposed coastal landscape of pebbles, smooth rocks and open sea views. Sturdy footwear and a windproof jacket are recommended. Nøtterøy also has several coastal trails passing through woodland and recreation areas near the sea.
From Tønsberg towards Horten
Around Tønsberg, coastal routes include Grevestien and paths towards Karlsvika and Vallø.
The approximately 10-kilometre route between Åsgårdstrand and Ringshaugstranda passes through woodland and coastal areas, including Essoskogen. From Åsgårdstrand, you can also walk north towards Horten, passing beaches, woodland and sites connected to the region's naval history. For a shorter walk in Horten, explore Karljohansvern.
Coastal trails in Holmestrand
Holmestrand Municipality offers walks along Sandebukta and routes extending south towards Horten. Between Sande and Holmestrand, part of the trail follows a former railway line close to the sea, with viewpoints and places to stop. The Berger–Sande route has more varied terrain. Be aware that some sections follow roads without separate pedestrian or cycle paths. Read more about coastal walking in Holmestrand before choosing your route.
Find the walk that suits you
Coastal trails across Vestfold range from established pedestrian paths and gravel tracks to uneven woodland trails and rocky shorelines. Distance, difficulty and accessibility vary considerably. Walking is possible in different seasons when weather and ground conditions allow. Wet rocks can be slippery, while exposed coastal sections may be windy.
Follow local trail markings, respect wildlife and vegetation, and take your litter home. Check any local restrictions on access and fires. For more walking inspiration, explore Hiking and coastal trails in Vestfold.
Plan your visit
Vestfold has many marked coastal trails, from short circular walks to longer routes between towns and villages. Choose your walking area before planning transport and access.
Distance and difficulty
Distances and terrain vary between routes. Choose from short local walks to longer coastal hikes. Surfaces may include pedestrian paths, gravel tracks, woodland trails, pebbles and coastal rocks. Check the individual route for distance and difficulty.
Trailheads, maps and transport
There is no single starting point for Vestfold's coastal trail network. Some walks are circular, while others require a return journey from a different location. Check maps, waymarking, public transport and parking for your chosen section.
Accessibility
Accessibility differs considerably between trails. Some sections use established walking paths, while others are narrow, steep or rocky. Do not assume that the entire network is suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs or bicycles.
Good to know
Coastal walks can be enjoyed when weather and ground conditions allow, but woodland paths and rocks may be slippery. Some areas have protected habitats and local access restrictions. Follow trail signs, take your litter home and check current rules on fires and access.