by: Larvik & Stavern

River Trail (Elvestien)

Elvestien follows the western bank of the Numedalslågen River from Bommestad Bridge to Gloppe Bridge in Larvik. The approximately 5.5-kilometre route passes through lush riverside vegetation, open stretches and woodland. Along the way, you will find varied terrain, information boards and places to stop beside the water.

A walk beside the river
The Numedalslågen River, locally known as Lågen, is a distinctive part of Larvik's landscape. Elvestien brings you close to the water, with opportunities to enjoy the riverside vegetation and look out for birdlife. The route alternates between shared pedestrian and cycle paths, wider walking trails and narrow woodland paths. Bring a packed lunch and make time for a break. Near Stubberød, designated fishing and rest areas provide places to pause, while information boards introduce the surrounding area.

From open paths to narrow woodland trails
The character of Elvestien changes along the way. Some sections are easy to access, while others pass through dense woodland. Beyond Faret, the route follows woodland paths beside the river, becoming particularly narrow and more challenging near Orøya. Parts of Elvestien are universally accessible, including a section near Stubberød. However, the entire route is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs because some sections include uneven surfaces, narrow paths and steps.

More walking routes in Larvik
If you would like a longer walk, Elvestien can be combined with Strandpromenaden and Revstien. The connection near Gloppe Bridge involves walking along a road for part of the way. Further south, you can explore a different side of Larvik, with walking paths and promenades near the fjord.

For circular walks and other routes, explore Walking trails in Larvik and discover more places to enjoy the surrounding countryside.

Plan your visit

Elvestien follows the western bank of the Numedalslågen River in Larvik, between Bommestad Bridge and Gloppe Bridge. The route is approximately 5.5 kilometres one way.

Distance and terrain
The route combines shared pedestrian and cycle paths, wider walking trails and narrow woodland paths. Some sections include steps and uneven surfaces. The full trail is not universally accessible.

Accessibility
A section near Stubberød has been adapted for wheelchair users. Other sections, particularly near Orøya, are narrow and more challenging.

Facilities and experiences
Fishing and rest areas are available near Stubberød. Information boards can be found near Bommestad Bridge and below Stubberød.

Good to know
This is a point-to-point walk. Plan your return journey if you intend to complete the full route. Choose footwear suited to the weather and trail conditions, and check the latest maps and route information before setting out.

See trail information and maps →

Farrishallen – Swimming Pool

The area totals 1.000 square metres.

The swimming pool has got 5 lanes and is 25 metres long. There are three high-dive platforms, from 1 metre, 3 metres and 5 metres.

The hall is frequently used by school children at daytime, and by sports clubs and organizations at afternoons and in evenings.

Beach Walk

About 1,5 km stroll along the Larvik seaside, from Skottebrygga to Kanalkaia. Information boards.

Ulabrand – Monument

On Ulakollen hill above the historic pilot harbour of Ula in Larvik stands the Ulabrand Monument, commemorating one of Norway's best-known maritime pilots. Created by sculptor Hans Holmen and unveiled in 1932, the memorial marks the site where local pilots once watched for ships approaching the coast. Follow the short path uphill from the harbour to discover a fascinating part of Norway's maritime heritage, along with sweeping views across the Skagerrak.

A maritime memorial overlooking the sea
From the viewpoint on Ulakollen hill, you can look across the coastal islands and open sea where pilots once kept watch for vessels needing assistance. The monument was created from roughly hewn local stone by sculptor Hans Holmen and erected through the initiative of Tjølling Sangforening, a local choral society. It was unveiled in 1932. The setting combines coastal history with beautiful views, making it a rewarding stop for visitors interested in both maritime heritage and nature.

The story of Ulabrand
Ulabrand was the nickname of Anders Johanssøn (1815–1881), a maritime pilot from Tjølling who settled in Ula in 1837. During the 19th century, pilots played a vital role in shipping along the Norwegian coast. Their knowledge of local waters, reefs and shallow passages helped guide vessels safely through challenging conditions.

Pilots often had to reach approaching ships themselves. The fee went to the pilot who arrived first and completed the assignment, creating fierce competition. In stormy weather, the work could be extremely dangerous. Ulabrand became known for his courage and seamanship. Many stories about his daring exploits have survived, although not all their details can be historically verified.

Ulabrand's final voyage
In the autumn of 1881, Ulabrand set out in severe weather together with his son Lars and a young pilot assistant. They never returned. Their boat is believed to have been lost in the waters south of Rauer. Only a few objects from the vessel were later recovered. The tragedy became part of Ulabrand's lasting legacy. Today, the monument commemorates both his life and the generations of pilots who worked to make coastal navigation safer.

A short walk from Ula harbour
The walk to the Ulabrand Monument starts in the centre of Ula. From the parking area, follow the road past the harbour and towards Ulabrands vei, then continue along the marked path to the viewpoint. The route is approximately 400 metres one way. The final section is steeper and includes steps. From the top, you can enjoy views towards the lighthouses at Færder, Svenner and Tvistein.

For directions and route details, see UT.no's Ulabrand walking guide.

Explore more of Ula
Combine your visit with Ula Beach, set in a sheltered bay below the monument. The area offers sandy beaches, smooth coastal rocks and a picturesque harbour. For a longer walk, try Holtefjellrunden in Ula, a waymarked circular trail of approximately seven kilometres through varied coastal scenery.

Plan your visit
The Ulabrand Monument stands on Ulakollen hill above Ula harbour, 3280 Tjodalyng, in Larvik municipality. The outdoor memorial can be visited throughout the year, with no admission ticket or advance booking required.

Access is on foot from the centre of Ula. Although the walk is short, the final section includes steep terrain and steps, making it unsuitable for some visitors with reduced mobility.
Parking is available in Ula, but check current parking fees and regulations locally. Sturdy footwear is recommended, particularly when the path is wet, snowy or icy.

 

Optical telegraph in Stavern

The first tests with the optical telegraph – popularly called the flap telegraph – were done in Stavern in 1808.

Signal Hill, the 75 metre tall top north-west of Stavern city centre, has been used as a site for signalling and military surveillance for a very long time.
The optical telegraph wires replaced the formerly used systems with flag signalling. The wires were organized 1809-10, during the first part of the Napoleonic Wars. The stations were built as observation posts, making it possible to see both of the neighbouring stations from the basis.

In addition the optical telegraphs functioned as a military signalling system and communication system along the coast from Trondheim to Hvaler before the peace agreement in 1814, but the optical telegraph wires were also used for the benefit of civil ship traffic.

The optical telegraph in Stavern was a main site for optical telegraphs in Norway, and visitors may, together with the model, enjoy a magnificent view of Stavern right down below, Viksfjord to the west and the skerries and the ocean southwards.

From Herman Wildenveys gate by the Water Reservoir in the Stavern city centre, you need to walk a 100 metre long path to come to Signal Hill.

Stavern Park

Walking around this square is like travelling through mists of time in culture and in history.

Next door to Stavern town hall, you will find one of the best preserved water pumps in the Nordic countries. The water pump is from 1792. The park is pleasantly surrounded by genuine garrison buildings, and is beautifully situated by the driveway to Stavern city centre.

People used to come here to fetch fresh water, clean clothes and get the latest news and gossip. Today the park is a natural meeting point in Stavern town centre. During summer many couples and bridal parties are being photographed at this idyllic spot.

Mølen

At Mølen on the outer Brunlanes coast, you can walk among rounded pebbles and ancient burial cairns, watch migratory birds and enjoy sweeping views across Langesund Bay. You can also reach Mølen along the coastal path from Nevlunghavn, a walk of approximately 3 kilometres.

A landscape shaped by the Ice Age
Mølen is part of the Gea Norvegica UNESCO Global Geopark. Its distinctive pebble landscape was shaped during and after the last Ice Age. More than 100 different rock types can be found here, including the local larvikite. The area is also home to ancient burial cairns and other stone structures. The oldest burial cairns may be around 3,500 years old. Mølen is an important stopover for migratory birds, particularly in spring and autumn.

Plan your visit
Explore Mølen on foot or follow the coastal path between Stavern, Nevlunghavn and Helgeroa. Combine your walk with a visit to the fishing village of Nevlunghavn and its picturesque harbour. The ground at Mølen is rocky and uneven. Wear sturdy footwear and take care in windy weather or when waves are high.

Help protect Mølen
The pebble landscape and ancient stone cairns are protected. Leave the stones where they are, do not disturb the cairns or build new stone piles. Open fires are prohibited. Respect the birdlife and keep dogs on a lead.

Krutthuset, Stavern

Krutthuset, the historic Gunpowder House, is located within Fredriksvern Naval Base in Stavern. Originally used to store gunpowder for military operations, the building also served as a prison for a period. Today, Krutthuset hosts changing art exhibitions, where you can discover paintings, prints, photography and other artistic expressions in a building connected to Stavern's naval history.

Discover art in the former gunpowder store
Galleri Krutthuset is part of the art community at Fredriksvern. Different artists present their work through exhibitions that change throughout the season. The gallery has exhibition spaces on both the ground and first floors. The works on display vary from one exhibition to another, with previous seasons featuring painting, glass art, printmaking and other artistic expressions.
Visiting Krutthuset offers an opportunity to discover artists while exploring one of the historic buildings at the former naval base.

From gunpowder storage to exhibition space
Krutthuset was constructed as part of the military complex at Fredriksvern. Storing gunpowder required special safety precautions, and as early as 1756, plans were discussed for two separate gunpowder towers to reduce the risks associated with storing large quantities in one location.
The building's construction also had to provide protection against bombardment. Historical plans described an upper floor designed to accommodate a thick protective layer. The building was later used as a prison for a period. Today, it has taken on a very different role as a venue for art and culture.

Explore historic Fredriksvern
Krutthuset stands within a historic area where naval heritage and cultural life come together. Construction of Fredriksvern began in 1750, establishing Norway's first main naval base. Many of the original buildings have been preserved and are now used for galleries, exhibitions and cultural events. Take time to explore the grounds before or after your gallery visit. Here you can see historic warehouses, workshops and galley sheds, and discover how the former naval base has become an active cultural heritage site. Just outside Fredriksvern stands Fredriksvern Church, consecrated in 1756. The church is another interesting stop for visitors exploring Stavern's military history.

Plan your visit
Krutthuset is located within Fredriksvern Naval Base, 3290 Stavern, in Larvik municipality, Norway.
Galleri Krutthuset opens for scheduled art exhibitions, mainly during the summer season, with some events taking place at other times of the year. Opening hours and any admission charges vary. The outdoor grounds at Fredriksvern are open 24 hours a day and are free to visit. Parking is available in Stavern town centre and in designated paid parking areas within Fredriksvern. Public toilets are located in Galley Shed 17 (Galeiskur 17).

If travelling by public transport, take the train to Larvik and continue by bus towards Stavern. Visit the Fredriksvern art exhibition programme for up-to-date information about participating artists, opening hours and events.

 

Hall of Rememberence

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 Kjærra Waterfalls Park

At Kjærra Waterfalls Park by the Numedalslågen River, you can stroll beside the waterfalls, cross the river on a footbridge and discover centuries-old salmon fishing traditions. Bring a picnic and enjoy the riverside scenery, or explore Earth's history along the geological timeline.

Historic salmon fishing at Kjærra
Kjærra is known for its traditional salmon fishing, dating back to the 14th century. The historic salmon trap, known locally as a lakseteine, guides salmon into a wooden catching structure. During summer, visitors may be able to watch the traditional catch being collected, depending on water levels and conditions. Check the Kjærra Waterfalls Park website for current information about fishing demonstrations and activities.

Footbridge, art and geological history
The 132-metre Kjærra footbridge connects both sides of the river and offers views across the Numedalslågen. The park also features sculptures, photographs and a geological timeline illustrating billions of years of Earth's history. The timeline was developed in cooperation with Gea Norvegica UNESCO Global Geopark.

Plan your visit
Explore the riverside paths, take a break at one of the picnic spots or discover the park on both sides of the footbridge. Take care near the waterfalls and riverbanks. For a more active day out, combine your visit with climbing and ziplining at Høyt & Lavt Climbing Park nearby.