In the period from 600 to 900 AD, nine great mounds were constructed at Borre.
On site there are three huge piles of stone amongst the mounds, which contribute towards the monumental character of the place. Nowhere else in Northern Europe are there more large mounds in one single location. The great mounds are evidence of political power, expressed through monumental symbols. Borre was probably the ultimate place for leaders to manifest their honour, even after life. Previously it was thought that it was members of a particular family, The Ynglinge clan, who were buried here – but recent research based on DNA analysis indicates that such large burial sites tend to contain people from several families. It was likely the spot itself – as well as its connection to previous leaders – what made this place an attractive location to be buried at.
Large parts of the eastern slopes of the ridge between Åsgårdstand and Horten were agricultural areas at the time when the burial site was established. The mounds consist of lots of old cultivated soil – this as a result of the area being used to grow crops before the mounds were erected. The site is strategically located, by the entrance to the Oslo fjord. The location indicates that the purpose of building these mounds here was for them to be visible from the water.
Only one of the major mounds on the Borre site has been completely excavated, and this happened in 1852. From this excavation hail the marvellous Borre finds. Unfortunately, due to the inexpert excavation of the Ship mound in Borre, a lot of knowledge was lost in the process. The find is nevertheless considered to be in line with the ship graves from Tune and Gokstad.
Midgard Viking Centre has interesting and exciting exhibitions which shows different aspects of the history. There are playgrounds where both kids and adults can try some Viking games and activities, such as bow and arrow and log games.
The Borre burial mounds
Midgard Viking Centre is situated near the Borre burial mounds, which form one of Norway’s most important cultural heritage sites. It was in use between the year 600 and 900 after Christ. This historical place played a central role in Europe’s Viking history. Experience Viking history, based on archeological knowledge, through your senses. Visit the great Viking Hall of Borre as well. The areas fresh and nice nature plus the historical factors makes this a popular destination for everyone interested in history. Midgards guides will bring you around the park and tell you all the stories and secrets of the burial mounds.
The Viking hall "Gildehallen"
In 2013 the Viking hall was opened at Midgard. The hall is a magnificent reconstruction of one of the Viking’s major party halls/rooms.
Big parts of the building are built by hand and with time appropriate tools, beautiful woodcarvings to show that the Vikings extraordinary woodcarvings are not forgotten. The guides have insight on all the exciting details of the building and the Vikings.
You have the opportunity to experience the Viking age and see it come alive. Serving time appropriate food with groceries from close by. You get stories about the food and drink, the Viking hall and Borre, and any questions you may have, answered.
Midgard Viking Centre offers activity days where you can experience the Vikings age, there is also possible to arrange activities for groups such as crafts, cooking, bow and arrow etc.
The café has a beautiful view over the Borre burial mounds and an auditorium for lectures and conferences.
In 1898 he bought a house built at the end of the 18th century. The house is now a small museum, open to the public where everything has been retained as it was when the artist lived there. The original studio building has been pulled down, but another building has been erected on the same site.
Edvard Munch painted many of his masterpieces in Åsgårdstrand, such as The Bridge, Four girls in Åsgårdstrand and The Dance of Life. These are now on view in major international art galleries.
The town hall in Åsgårdstrand
In the town hall you will find Digital Munch and a museum shop. Here you can experience the history of Edvard Munch and Åsgårdstrand in an innovative digital edition, meet the Åsgårdstrand history team in a newly renovated venerable city council hall and have a look in the museum shop. Read more on the website.
Travel guide on your own
The Munch Museum, together with Munch's house in Åsgårdstrand, has published a travel guide to all of Munch's places. The book provides information on viewpoints and experiences, so you can follow in his footsteps.
With its extensive collection of both national and international matters, the museum covers all aspects of the history of photography. The museum has two galleries with temporary exhibitions; a basis exhibition and a specialist library of international standard. A national centre for the preservation of photographs, which offers expertise in the treatment and preservation of photographic material.
Preus Museum is located in the idyllic Cultural Park, Karljohansvern in Horten. The museum building, which was previously a grain store for the Royal Norwegian Navy, dates back to the 1860s and was adapted for museum purposes in 2001 by architect Sverre Fehn.
It is possible to buy a cup of coffee or the from the reception.
Welcome home to the home of Fjøsnissen. Experience the Fjøsnissens playful antics and get up close to many fascinating animals. Enjoy a variety of games and activities in a fun setting that takes you back in time. The area is just the right size for adults to relax while children play freely.
Tickets are purchased at the entrance.
Cuddling with the animals
On the farm you can meet rabbits, alpacas, sheep, goats, pigs, pot-bellied pigs, hens, chickens, ducks and peacocks.
Food and drink
Feel free to bring your own food – on the farm there are hot grills for free use. In the area there are several benches and tables where you can enjoy lunch. The farm has its own kiosk with a selection of food and drinks.
Read more at Buggegården's website.
Spend your entire stay in inspiring surroundings by the sea in the Oslofjord.
In addition to a unique location on the beach, you will also find an outdoor swimming pool and boat garage on the site.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Njord. Here, short-distance delights from Vestfold's archipelago, fields and forests are served.
Dal Gjestegaard (guest house) is idyllically located at Skoppum, 6 minutes by car from Horten.
At Dal Gjestegaard you can stay for as short or as long as you like. Perfect accommodation from one night to up to several months. Get in touch for long-term accommodation, and Dal Gjestegaard will put together an agreement according to your needs.
A special hotel with a unique combination of style, elegance, tradition and modern comfort. The hotel offer 43 spacious, comfortable and top quality rooms, with a modern and elegant design.
The new hotel wing, Karl Johan, has 39 rooms. If you want a unique room in historic surroundings, the main building stores 8 rooms, both double and suites.
Meetings and conferences
The new hotel wing also has a big conference department with 5 new top modern conference rooms with AV-equipment adapted todays needs. Capacity from 2 until 200 persons.
The Restaurant
With ingredients of the season delivered by local suppliers and producers, the chef composes delicious meals inspired by the Norwegian, French and Italian kitchen. All food we serve is produced in their own kitchen. Welcome to a unique dining experience!
Opening hours:
A la carte Monday to Friday 11 am to 9 pm.
At Dal guest house you comfortably live in fully furnished apartment.
Reception-free apartment hotel. Each unit has its own patio with fantastic sun conditions throughout the day.
Borre Family Camping is the perfect destination for families who want to spend a relaxing and fun holiday in beautiful surroundings. The campsite is beautifully located in Borre, surrounded by lush forests with great hiking trails, just a few minutes' drive from the center of Horten.
At Borre Family Camping you will find everything you need for a great camping experience. The campsite has a number of facilities that will make your stay even more comfortable. You can enjoy the sun on the beach, play on the playground with the children or explore the many hiking trails in the area.
Whatever you choose to do, Borre Family Camping will give you and your family an unforgettable camping experience right in the heart of Vestfold. Come and experience the beautiful nature and the pleasant atmosphere at Borre Family Camping!
