Sandefjord Archives

Sykkeltur Oslo – Sandefjord

The route starts in Oslo and goes along bike-friendly roads through Asker and Bærum to Drammen, and further south in a flat and bicycle-friendly landscape through Vestfold. The tour offers varied landscapes in easy terrain. Ride through beautiful cultural landscapes with plenty of great swimming spots along the way. Included in the price are 3 night at a hotel w/breakfast, infomaterial, directions and Merlot GPS map.

Day by day

Day 1 Oslo – Drammen 48 km

The route goes on a bike path parallel to the E18 to Lysaker. From there you follow National Cycle Route 1 via small roads to Bærum and on to Nesbru and Asker center. From asker the route goes to Lier and further along Drammenselva. The hotel is located close to the train station. It is possible to take the train from Asker to Drammen if you want to avoid hills over Liertoppen.

Day 2 Drammen – Horten 50 km

Here the route follows the cycle path along Drammenselva and continoues up light slopes towards Sande. The pier in Holmestrand is well suited for a lunch break with views of the fjord and marina. Further south you follow small roads towards Horten. Here it is recommended to take a walk in the area around the old navy base Karljohansvern. The area offers historical experiences in scenic surroundings. Today's best swimming spots can be found at Holm in Sandebukta and Hagermannsparken in Holmestrand.

Day 3 Horten – Sandefjord 55 km

The last day of cycling starts with following National cycle path 1 out of Horten on forest trails towards Åsgårdstrand. You will pass Midgard Vikingsenter where you can take a closer look at the life of the Vikings in Vestfold. The center constantly has exciting new exhibitions, which illustrate various aspects of Viking history. The center is located by the beautiful Borrehaugene, which is one of Norway's most important national cultural monuments. Be sure to visit the magnificent Guild Hall – a reconstruction of one of the Vikings' great banqueting halls. In Åsgårdstrand you ride past Edvard Munch's house, which is often open to visitors. Furthermore, a cycle path is followed along the coast towards Tønsberg. At Skallevollstranda it is nice to go for a swim.

In the center of Tønsberg you have the opportunity to visit Haugar Vestfold Art Museum where you can, among other things, see Andy Warhol's tribute to Munch. Make a stop at Vikingodden on the dock in Tønsberg and see the replicas of the Vikingships: Oseberg ship and the Klåstad ship. On weekends, there are skilled guides in place who tell about Vestfold's Viking history. The route continues through Stokke municipality and the idyllic melsomvik, with good swimming spots along the way. The further journey passes the Gokstad Ship's burial ground. before arriving in Sandefjord. Hereyou can visit Hvalfangsmuseet – the national and international knowledge and activity center for whale and whaling history. Dinner can be enjoyed on the edge of the pier, for example at Brygga 11, Geir Skeie to enjoy some delicious seafood.

Day 4 – Sandefjord

Home travel day. After breakfast at the hotel, the program is over. Take the bike on the train back to Oslo, or continue exploring Vestfold. Take a ferry from Engø boat harbor via Veierland to Tenvik on Nøtterøy. Veierland is a charming car-free island that is explored on foot or by bike. After arriving in Tenvik you can ride your bake to the magnificent The World's End for magical nature experiences and a bite to eat.

Period: Every day from May 15 to August 3, 2020.
Price: NOK 1.750,-
For more information and to book your tour, contact Merlot Travels.

Bybadet i Sandefjord – Strømbadet

Bring your swimwear to Strømbadet at Hjertnesstranda, just a short walk from central Sandefjord. Take a refreshing dip in the fjord, jump from a diving platform or relax on the floating jetties and enjoy the waterfront views.

Swim and dive from floating jetties
Strømbadet has floating jetties with areas for swimming and relaxing by the water. Find a place to sit, enjoy a swim or try one of the three diving platforms. Two platforms are one metre high, while the third is three metres high. Only jump or dive from designated areas, and always check the water depth before entering.

More to enjoy at Hjertnesstranda
Strømbadet is part of the Hjertnesstranda waterfront area, where you'll find seating, communal barbecues, sand courts and outdoor fitness facilities. Combine your swim with a round at Hvalen Minigolf or visit Hjertnesstranda Skatepark. You can also take a walk along the fjord promenade and enjoy the harbour scenery.

Accessibility and facilities
Strømbadet was designed with accessibility in mind, featuring clearly marked routes, ramps and contrasting colours to help visitors navigate the facility. The slope between the shore and the floating jetties changes with the tides. Surfaces and bathing ramps can also become slippery. Toilets and communal barbecues are available on shore at Hjertnesstranda. Showers and drinking water are available during the summer season.

Plan your visit
Strømbadet is located at Hjertnesstranda in Sandefjord, accessible via the western pier of the horseshoe-shaped harbour. Use Sandefjordsveien 5 as a navigation reference. A large car park is available near the junction of Sandefjordsveien and Strandpromenaden. Designated accessible parking spaces are located closer to the entrance. The facility can be used throughout the year when weather and surface conditions allow, but winter maintenance is not provided.

Check the bathing water quality before swimming. Heavy or prolonged rainfall can temporarily affect water quality. A warning light normally operates from May to September. Swimming is not recommended when the light is red. Be considerate of other visitors, stay within the swimming buoys and follow the posted safety rules. Barbecues are not permitted on the floating jetties, but communal facilities are available on shore.

Check bathing water quality, safety rules and visitor information from Sandefjord Municipality.

Kajakkpadling.no – Padleglede med Tine Raisbæk

The archipelago in Vestfold is fantastic, and is perhaps best experienced from kayaking. Kajakkpadling.no offers short introductory courses, educational basic courses and technique courses or a guided tours. Enjoy Færder National Park, experience Norway's oldest city from the water, the summer on Tjøme, check out the car-free island Veierland or all the way to the End of the World.

Security and mastery are key words for the experiences. With many different kayaks, there is definitely one that suits you. You do not need any equipment. Kajakkpadling.no also offer separate courses for children and larger groups in collaboration with several skilled instructors.

Kajakkpadling.no offers activities all the way between Kragerø to Holmestrand. Færder National Park, Tjøme, Veierland, Sandefjord, Holmestrand, Nevlunghavn and Helgeroa are their favorites, but are also happy to visit your place on request.

Open all year by appointment, many regular courses and guided tours during the summer season and some through the winter. All equipment is included, including dry suits for winter paddling.

Ice skating rink in Sandefjord

The ice skating rink in Thor Dahls gate in Sandefjord is open from november till the last of march. The ice is affected by the weather and after much rain and snow some time must be calculated to re-establish the ice. The ice skating rink is free to use, and you must bring your own skates. You can also borrow skates from Sandefjord frivilligsentral, BUA.

You are not allowed to bring a puck or a hockeystick on the ice.

Hiking trails in Kodal and Andebu

Kodal and Andebu offer walking trails through woodland, beside lakes and up to viewpoints overlooking the Vestfold countryside. Around Heivannet and Svartåa, there are more than 100 kilometres of marked trails. Other destinations include Vetan, Tjuvborgen and Brånafjell, the highest point in Sandefjord Municipality. Choose a short local walk or spend a full day exploring the forest.

Woodland walks around Heivannet and Svartåa
In western Kodal, Heivannet and Svartåa are surrounded by woodland, streams and old routes through the forest. The area has an extensive network of blue-marked trails, including several options for circular walks. Heisetra is a useful starting point. From here, you can follow the nature trail around Heivannet or explore longer paths through the surrounding forest. The Svartåa cultural trail also passes places connected with the area's timber-floating history. Bring a picnic and enjoy a break near the water. Find more information under Hiking to Heisetra.

Trollsvann and Åletjønn
The woodland surrounding Trollsvann and Åletjønn offers walking opportunities of different lengths. At Trollsvann, an easy gravel road leads towards Trollsvannstua. A separate nature trail follows the other side of the lake, crossing more varied terrain. Walking maps and information boards are available around the trailheads, including the parking areas near Trollsvann and Merkedammen. In winter, parts of the area are also used for cross-country skiing when snow conditions allow.

Vetan – a lookout tower above Andebu
A nature and heritage trail leads from central Andebu towards Vetan. Information panels along the way introduce the surrounding landscape and local history. At the top, a lookout tower offers views across the region. On clear days, you may see the Oslofjord and Gaustatoppen mountain in Telemark. From Vetan, you can continue past the dam on the Kjæråselva River towards the remains of a historic hillfort at Ulspipa.

Tjuvborgen – a historic hillfort near Høyjord
South of Høyjord lies Tjuvborgen, an ancient hillfort set on a wooded hill. The marked path begins at Bøen, approximately three kilometres south of Høyjord Stave Church. The walk uphill takes around half an hour. Most of the trail is relatively easy, although the final climb to the hillfort is steep. At the top, enjoy the views and take a picnic break. Nearby, Høyjord Stave Church is Vestfold's only preserved stave church. Check visiting arrangements if you would like to go inside.

Brånafjell – the highest point in Sandefjord
At 399 metres above sea level, Brånafjell is the highest point in Sandefjord Municipality. Walking routes lead towards the summit from the Trollsvann and Merkedammen areas. The forest terrain varies, with different route choices along the way. Use an up-to-date trail map and follow the marked route for your chosen walk.

Shorter walks for families
You do not need a long hike to enjoy Kodal and Andebu. At Stivannet in Kodal, Beverstien is an accessible walking trail with benches, shelters and places to stop by the lake. From central Kodal, a marked trail of approximately 4.5 kilometres leads towards Kjempås and Stiåsen. The terrain is hilly, and at the summit you will find remains of a hillfort dating from around the fifth century. For seasonal walking routes, explore De grønne turene, a series of marked trails across Sandefjord Municipality.

Choose a walk that suits you
Trail conditions vary from relatively easy gravel tracks to narrow woodland paths with roots, stones and steep sections. Some walks are suitable for families with young children, while others require more experience on uneven ground. Check the individual route before deciding on distance, duration and accessibility. Forest trails can become muddy and slippery after rain. For more walking ideas and trailhead information, visit Sandefjord Municipality's hiking pages.

Plan your visit

Kodal and Andebu offer short local walks, marked woodland trails and longer hikes to viewpoints. Choose a specific route and check its map before setting out.

Distance and route options
The Heia and Svartåa area has more than 100 km of marked trails in total, rather than one continuous walk. A route of approximately 4.5 km leads from central Kodal towards Kjempås and Stiåsen. The uphill walk from Bøen to Tjuvborgen takes around half an hour. Further options are available at Vetan, Trollsvann and Brånafjell.

Starting points and parking
Possible starting points include central Kodal, central Andebu, Heia, Trollsvann, Merkedammen and Bøen near Høyjord. For Beverstien at Stivannet, park near Kodal Kindergarten, Sagaveien 1A. Check access and parking arrangements for your chosen route.

Terrain and accessibility
Routes range from gravel tracks and accessible paths to hilly woodland with roots, stones and steep sections. Beverstien at Stivannet is an accessible alternative. The entire trail network is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Good to know
Walking conditions depend on weather and season. Wear appropriate footwear and check trail maps and waymarks before travelling. De grønne turene has a separate marking season from late April to 15 September. Respect landowners, wildlife and the natural surroundings, and take your litter home.

Explore walking routes and maps →

Huset Sandefjord

Huset Sandefjord is a restaurant and bar on Thor Dahls gate in central Sandefjord. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, with pizzas, open sandwiches, burgers, fish, meat dishes and vegetarian options. The menu changes throughout the year, and guests can combine a meal with shuffleboard or drinks at the bar.

Lunch, dinner and sharing dishes
The lunch menu includes open prawn and avocado sandwiches, pizzas and burgers. From 4 pm, the dinner menu also offers dishes such as fish soup, the catch of the day, braised beef cheek and beef tenderloin. For a meal to share, Huset offers a four-course sharing menu with several dishes served at the table. A children's menu and vegetarian options are also available, including pizza and a mushroom and nut burger. The menu varies with the seasons. Visit the restaurant's website for current dishes, prices and allergen information.

Bar, shuffleboard and summer garden
The bar serves cocktails and other drinks, and guests can enjoy a game of shuffleboard with friends or colleagues. On Fridays and Saturdays, DJs and a dance floor bring a different atmosphere later in the evening.
During summer, Huset opens its outdoor garden seating area, with a dedicated garden bar on Fridays and Saturdays.

Groups, private events and After Work
Huset welcomes groups of different sizes. A separate private room accommodates up to 35 people, while the restaurant has dinner capacity for up to 100 guests. Group menus are available, and the restaurant hosts a Friday After Work buffet from 4 pm to 6 pm, except during the main summer holiday period. Contact Huset for private events, group bookings and shuffleboard reservations.

Opening hours and reservations
Huset is open Monday to Thursday from 11 am to 11 pm, and from 11 am on Fridays and Saturdays. It is closed on Sundays.

Lunch is served from 11 am to 4 pm, followed by the dinner menu from 4 pm. Tables can be booked online through Huset Sandefjord's website. Groups of more than 20 people should contact the restaurant directly.

Check the website for current opening hours and reservations.

Airport Bus Service – Torp Sandefjord Airport

TO/FROM SANDEFJORD CITY CENTRE
For travel to or from Sandefjord city centre, Vy operates a shuttle bus between Torp Sandefjord Airport and Torp Station (4 minutes). From Torp Station, regular train services connect to Sandefjord. Timetables are available at vy.no.

You can also take the shuttle bus to Fokserød and transfer to VKT Route 01 for Sandefjord city centre. Timetables are available at vkt.no

SHUTTLE BUS BETWEEN FOKSERØD AND TORP
VKT operates a shuttle bus between Fokserød and Torp twice an hour. Timetables are available at vkt.no/torp.

Weekdays: Every 30 minutes from 6:00 am to 11:30 pm
Saturdays: Hourly from 8:30 am to 10:30 pm
Sundays: Hourly from 1:30 pm to 9:30 pm

For more information, visit the Torp Sandefjord Airport website.

TO/FROM TELEMARK AND THE OSLO–KRISTIANSAND–STAVANGER
For additional bus services to and from Torp Sandefjord Airport, visit:
https://www.torp.no/en/to-and-from-the-airport/bus/

Høyjord stave church

The church´s oldest part, the chancel, is from the 12th century. The nave, however, is from the second half of the 13th century. As well as the corner posts the church has side posts and a central post. Originally it was whitewashed and decorated inside, some of this has been restored. Finn Krafft has in addition painted a number of new decorations. On the north wall are drawings of ships from the 14th century.

The crosses are from the original consecration. The restoration was completed in 1953, the arcitect was Otto L. Scheen.

The church has 150 seats.

Galleri ER

Galleri ER is an art gallery in the heart of Sandefjord, located at Kongensgate 12. With 300 square metres of exhibition space across two floors, the gallery presents paintings, prints and sculptures by more than 70 artists from throughout Norway. Visitors can explore a wide selection of original artworks alongside changing solo and group exhibitions throughout the year.

Explore art across two floors
Galleri ER offers a spacious setting for discovering different artistic styles and techniques. The gallery is divided into four exhibition areas: Hallen, Tress, Base and White Box. Here, you can explore original paintings, fine art prints and sculptures in a variety of materials and styles. The gallery represents a wide selection of Norwegian artists, with exhibitions changing regularly. Whether you are looking for a piece of art for your home or simply enjoying a cultural break, take your time to discover the collection and find your favourites.

Changing exhibitions and opportunities to meet artists
Throughout the year, Galleri ER hosts solo and group exhibitions featuring established and emerging artistic voices. New exhibitions often open on Saturdays, with the exhibiting artists frequently attending the opening events. The programme provides opportunities to explore new techniques, discover different artists and engage more closely with contemporary Norwegian art. Check the latest exhibition programme to see what is on during your visit.

Buy original art and explore framing services
Galleri ER is both an exhibition space and a commercial art gallery. Visitors can purchase original paintings, prints and sculptures, with advice available when choosing an artwork.The gallery also offers professional framing services, with a wide selection of frames to suit different artworks and interiors. If you are considering a painting or print for your home, Galleri ER offers the opportunity to try selected works on your own wall before making a decision. Art consultancy and decorative solutions are also available for private homes and businesses.
Browse available works through the Galleri ER online shop.

A welcoming gallery in central Sandefjord
Galleri ER is owned and managed by Elisabeth Rudberg, who has run the gallery since 2016. The gallery aims to make art approachable, offering a welcoming environment where visitors can explore, ask questions and discover new artists. Its central location in Kongensgate makes it an easy stop while shopping or exploring Sandefjord.

Discover more art in Sandefjord
For more artistic experiences, visit Galleri Brown, which combines visual art, ceramics, printmaking and creative workshops.
You can also explore Sculptures in Sandefjord, featuring public artworks in parks and open spaces around the town.
Find more inspiration in the Galleries in Sandefjord guide.

Plan your visit
Galleri ER is located at Kongensgate 12, 3210 Sandefjord, Norway, in the pedestrian-friendly town centre. The gallery is normally open Wednesday–Saturday, 10 am–4 pm. Hours may vary during public holidays and holiday periods. Admission to the regular gallery exhibitions is free. Art purchases, framing services and special events may have separate charges.

Allow time to explore both floors, whether you are making a short visit or spending longer looking for an artwork.
Contact the gallery in advance for information about wheelchair access, step-free entry and accessibility between the two floors.
For current information, visit the official Galleri ER website.

Aarholt-tunet Gjestegård

Aarholt-tunet is a guesthouse for groups that will be gathered to experience human growth in scenic surroundings in Stokke in Vestfold. The farm has been in the Aarholt family since 1520, which in 2020 ment 500 years! Since 1992, Svein and Ingfrid have welcomed guests to the farm.

The kitchen at Aarholt-tunet can serve up to 60-80 guests, and the food is preferably organic and as local as possible, and served with herbs from their own garden.