Østerøya in Sandefjord has approximately 20 kilometres of blue-marked coastal trails passing through woodland, farmland and coastal scenery. At the southern end of the peninsula lies Yxney, where the paths lead past small coves, smooth rocks and viewpoints overlooking the archipelago. Choose a shorter walk from one of the local trailheads or explore several sections of the network.
Coastal paths through woodland and shoreline
The trails on Østerøya follow established routes and paths used by local people for generations. Some sections run along gravel tracks and forest roads, while others cross roots, stones and exposed coastal rocks. There are several places to begin. Marked routes start from Kastet at the inner end of Mefjorden and Røyseløkka, with further walking opportunities around Skjellvika, Flautangen and Tallakshavn. At Flautangen, the landscape alternates between coastal woodland, smooth rocks and small beaches. Bring a picnic and enjoy a walk at your own pace.
Explore Yxney and Tønsberg Tønne
At the southern tip of Østerøya, Yxney offers an open coastal landscape of rocky shores, beaches and sea views. One of the best-known destinations is Tønsberg Tønne, a historic navigation landmark mentioned in Sverre's Saga. Coastal paths lead from the Tallakshavn area through Trubervikene and Strandvika towards Yxney and the landmark. The terrain varies, and the final approach to Tønsberg Tønne is uneven and rocky. Allow time to stop and enjoy the surrounding coastal scenery.
Beaches and places to pause
Several beaches on Østerøya can be combined with a coastal walk. Skjellvika has a sandy beach, coastal rocks and a constructed walkway beside the rocks. Flautangen offers sandy and stony beaches as well as smooth rock formations. Around Truber, you will find beaches and coastal scenery close to the walking trails on Yxney. Some recreation areas have toilets and improved access, although facilities may be seasonal.
Nature and coastal heritage
The peninsula is shaped by both nature and centuries of human activity. Old stone walls, burial mounds and other historical remains are found among woodland, fields and coastal grassland. Traditional farming also remains part of the landscape. Yxney is home to important natural habitats, including a nature reserve near Strandvika. Special rules apply in protected areas, so follow local signs and respect wildlife and vegetation. Stay on established paths and leave archaeological remains undisturbed.
Choose a route that suits you
The coastal trails are marked in blue on posts, trees and other visible surfaces. Some sections share access roads with cyclists, horses or vehicles, so be aware of other users. Terrain and accessibility vary considerably. Certain sections follow established roads or tracks, while others are steep, narrow or rocky. The entire network is not suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs or bicycles. Walking conditions depend on weather and season. Wear sturdy shoes and bring windproof clothing for the more exposed parts of Yxney. Find official maps and route information from Sandefjord Municipality. For more coastal walks, explore Vesterøya and Folehavna or discover walking and coastal trails across Vestfold.
Plan your visit
The coastal trails on Østerøya form a network of marked paths through woodland and along the shore. Choose routes around Skjellvika and Flautangen or explore further towards Yxney and Tønsberg Tønne.
Distance and terrain
The Østerøya coastal trail network totals approximately 20 km, including more than 10 km of paths in the Flautangen and Yxney areas. These figures describe trail networks, not a single walking route. Surfaces include gravel tracks, woodland paths, stones and coastal rocks. Duration and difficulty depend on your chosen section.
Starting points and parking
There are several trailheads, including Skjellvika, Flautangen and Tallakshavn. Use the parking areas shown on the municipality's map and signposted along Østerøyveien. Check current parking arrangements before travelling.
Waymarking and accessibility
The trails have blue waymarks. Some stretches follow roads and gravel tracks, while others are narrow and rocky. Wheelchair and pushchair access has not been verified across the entire network. Check the accessibility information for your chosen section.
Good to know
A nature reserve near Strandvika on Yxney has special access rules. Follow local signs and respect wildlife and vegetation. Keep dogs under control and observe applicable lead requirements. Do not light fires or use disposable barbecues directly on coastal rocks. Check current fire regulations before visiting.
View trail maps and route information →
