A monument of Ulabrand is raised at the point where local lodesmen had their observation post.
Ulabrand is regarded as Norway's best known lodesman ever. He worked at Ula from approximately 1850 until he lost his life during an autumn storm in 1881.
At the end of the 19th century the lodesmen themselves had to hail boats and ships that were in need of guidance. Wages were given to the man who came first to rescue – after the first come, first served principle. The lodesman then led the ship safely until it arrived in port.
Consequently, lodesmen had observation posts where they easily could spot ships on their way in the Oslo fiord because of the magnificent view.
There was fierce competition on arriving first to help at the ship's side. The lodesmen often risked their own lives, and Ulabrand was probably the roughest and toughest of the lot. The lodesmen brought many ships and lots of sailors to safety during Skagerrak storms.
Ulabrand himself became a symbol of strong seamanship, but he was first and foremost an important symbol of all the hard work the lodesmen went through to make shipping more secure.
Tourists can visit the Memorial Hall all summer long.
The memomial is pyramid-formed, erected in commemoration of all Norwegian sailors in the fishing fleet and the merchant navy who lost their lives in naval service for Norway during World War I and World War II.
Minnehallen – the name in Norwegian – is meant to resemble a beacon, and is built of blocks of granite from a nearby rock. It was opened by HM King Haakon 7. in 1926 after two years of construction.
About 15.000 people visit the memorial from May to September every year. They find a 32-metre wide frieze inside the main hall that depicts different epoques from the dramatic lives of sailors.
In front of the sarcophagus wrapped in the Norwegian flag you find the famous sculpture "Abyss", and in the crypt 7562 sailors' names are carved on copper plates.
The altar in the main hall is engraved with a commemorative poem to the sailors, written by Norwegian poet Henrik Wildenvey.
The Beech Tree Forest is used all year round for cultural and recreational activities by locals and tourists alike.
In mid-May you'll find joy in the light green petals from the beech trees while strolling along the 270-meter-long Passion Path, and eventually you'll end up at the square close to the main entrance. If you come here at Constitution Day, May 17th, you will see lots of happy children parading waving their Norwegian flags. In autumn the forest turns to red and yellow, and during winter the trees are snow-covered.
You also find the charming cafe called Bøkekroa where you can enjoy live jazz every single Friday during summer. Bøkekroa is open all year and serves traditionally Norwegian food.
For the historian, there are 80-90 registered burial mounds. You will find the largest Iron Age burial ground in Vestfold and one of the largest in Norway at this site.
The highest point in the Beech Tree Forest is called "The Bellevue". It is situated in the north-western part of the area. This place gives you an excellent view of the Farris lake, and some good rest for your legs.
The Beech Tree Forest stretches inwards along the Farris lake, and as you walk you will find small, cosy cabins and unspoilt places where you can enjoy the views and eat your lunch in the great outdoors.
