Mellom Bolæren is an island in the Bolærne archipelago within Færder National Park. A marked coastal trail of approximately 1.5 kilometres connects the Kongshavnsundet and Jensesund areas. Along the way, you pass mature deciduous woodland, restored smallholdings, Bronze Age burial mounds and traces of the island's military history.
Woodland paths and island heritage
For generations, Mellom Bolæren was home to fishing families, maritime pilots and people who lived from small-scale farming. The marked trail crosses woodland and open areas, with occasional views across the surrounding archipelago. At Jensesund, restored smallholdings offer a glimpse of everyday island life. One of the buildings is now used as a coastal trekking cabin. Allow time to explore the area around the historic buildings and discover how people lived on the islands before modern transport links.
Grevestuen and the burial mounds
In a woodland clearing, you will find Grevestuen, a protected country retreat built for Count Peder Anker Wedel Jarlsberg around 1840. The building has been restored and is an important part of the island's cultural heritage. Mellom Bolæren also has burial mounds dating back to the Bronze Age, showing that people used the island thousands of years ago.
Traces of the Second World War
Mellom Bolæren has a difficult wartime history. During the Second World War, a prison camp for Soviet prisoners of war was established on the island. Remains of the camp are still visible. They are an important reminder of the suffering experienced by the prisoners and form part of the island's historical story. Volunteers from Mellem-Bolærens Venner have helped restore buildings, clear vegetation and make the heritage sites more accessible. A guided visit can offer additional insight into this history.
Plan your island visit
The coastal trail is approximately 1.5 kilometres long, and the crossing takes around 30 minutes on foot without extended stops. Allow more time if you want to explore the historic sites. Mellom Bolæren is reached by boat. Flightboat operates seasonal services from Husvik near Tønsberg. Water taxis and private boats are alternative ways to reach the island. As the trail connects two different parts of the island, check where your boat will arrive and how you will make your return journey.
Protect the natural surroundings
Mellom Bolæren is part of Færder National Park, an area of protected nature and important cultural heritage. Stay on established paths, take your litter away and leave historic remains undisturbed. Some parts of the island have improved access, but the full coastal trail has not been verified as suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. For more island experiences, discover Bolærne or explore Hiking and coastal trails in Vestfold.
Plan your visit
The coastal trail on Mellom Bolæren connects Kongshavnsundet and Jensesund. The island can be reached by passenger boat from Husvik near Tønsberg, water taxi or private boat.
Distance and duration
Approximately 1.5 km one way. Walking across the island takes around 30 minutes without long stops. Allow extra time for the historic sites, and plan your walk around your boat's arrival point.
Boat services and access
Flybåten operates seasonal services from Husvik. Departure times, fares and stops may change. Confirm that your service calls at Mellom Bolæren and arrange your return journey before travelling. Water taxis are another option.
Terrain and accessibility
The marked paths pass through woodland and historic farmland. Some parts of the island have improved wheelchair access, but accessibility has not been verified for the entire coastal trail. Wear sturdy walking shoes.
Good to know
Mellom Bolæren is part of Færder National Park. Respect wildlife, plants and historic remains. Check the current rules on camping, fires and access. Scheduled passenger boat services are seasonal and weather-dependent.