Sandefjord Archives

Metro Sandefjord

At Metro Sandefjord, families, friends and colleagues can get together for a day of games, friendly competition and good food. With bowling, billiards, laser tag and an indoor play centre under one roof, there's something for everyone. Some come to win. Others are happy just to have a go.

An indoor playground with room to explore
At Metro's indoor play centre, children can climb, jump, slide and explore. The play area includes spiral slides, trampolines, tunnels, ball pits, climbing equipment and soft ball cannons. Adults can join in or take a break in the café area. The play centre caters for children of different ages, who must be accompanied by an adult.

Bowling, billiards and laser tag
Challenge your family or friends to a game of bowling, or test your skills at the billiard table. For something more energetic, try laser tag. Players are given a vest and laser equipment before entering a maze filled with music, lighting effects and opponents trying to score points. Play in teams or compete against one another.

Teamwork and challenges in The Cube
The Cube features more than 40 challenges where teams work together to earn points. It's an opportunity to put creativity, problem-solving and competitive spirit to the test. The activity caters for groups of 4–30 people and is recommended for ages 15 and over. Contact Metro for booking and availability.

Birthday parties and group activities
Metro offers birthday celebrations with indoor play, bowling or laser tag. Choose one activity or combine several, with food and drinks included in the celebration. Groups of friends, school classes, clubs, associations and businesses can also arrange activities tailored to their needs.

Food and drink between activities
There's no need to head elsewhere when everyone gets hungry. Metro has a restaurant and sports bar serving burgers, pizza and other dishes. Gather around the table for a break or round off your visit with something to eat.

Plan your visit
Metro Sandefjord is located at Hinderveien 8 in Pindsle, approximately three kilometres from Sandefjord town centre. The indoor play centre and bowling facilities have different opening hours. Visit the Metro Sandefjord website for current opening times, prices and booking. Advance booking is recommended if you want a particular activity or are visiting as a group.

What to bring

Socks for both children and adults visiting the indoor play centre. Shoes must be removed.
Comfortable clothing suitable for active play. Long sleeves and trousers are recommended in the play area.
Your booking confirmation if you have booked activities in advance.

Good to know

Children visiting the indoor play centre must be accompanied by someone over 16.
Outside food and drinks are not permitted in the indoor play centre, except baby food.
An 18+ age restriction applies to drop-in activities after 8 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Some group activities and birthday packages require advance booking.
Opening hours and prices vary between activities. Check with Metro before your visit.

The coastal path on Vesterøya and Folehavna

Vesterøya in Sandefjord has approximately 25 kilometres of blue-marked coastal walking trails through woodland, alongside farmland and towards the sea. At the southern end of the peninsula, Folehavna Fort combines coastal views with the remains of a former military installation. Choose a shorter walk from one of the local trailheads or explore several sections of the trail network.

From woodland to open coastal rocks
The coastal trails cross a varied landscape. Some follow established tracks, while others lead along narrow woodland paths, across smooth rocks and past sheltered bays. Wooded stretches alternate with more exposed areas offering views over the archipelago. Several marked detours lead to viewpoints. The trails have blue waymarks, including routes beginning at Gokstad Kystlag in Framnes and Djupsundveien near the inner end of Mefjorden. Use the municipality's map to plan your chosen section.

A coastal destination at Folehavna
Folehavna is an inviting destination at the southern tip of Vesterøya, with smooth coastal rocks, windswept viewpoints and open sea views. Bring a picnic and allow time to explore the surroundings. From the rocks, you can look towards Svenner Lighthouse and the coastline further west. Woodland gives way to more exposed terrain near the sea. Take care on slippery rocks and steep slopes, especially in wet weather.

Discover the history of Folehavna Fort
Folehavna Fort was established by the German occupying forces in 1941 as part of the coastal defence system during the Second World War. The fort was later used by the Norwegian military, and military operations ended in 1993. Today, remains of the coastal fortifications offer a glimpse into the area's wartime history and its later use as a defence installation.

Beaches and shorter walks
You do not have to reach Folehavna to enjoy Vesterøya's coastal landscape. Several beaches and recreation areas lie along the peninsula. Around Vøra and Langeby, you can combine a walk with time by the sea or a swim during warmer weather. You can also start from Sandefjord town centre and follow marked connections towards the peninsula. For a shorter walk, choose a trailhead near the area you would like to explore. Discover more swimming spots in Beaches in Sandefjord.

A landscape shaped by generations
Alongside its natural scenery, Vesterøya has a long history of settlement and farming.
Old stone walls, farmsteads, established paths and other heritage remains reflect how people have used this coastline over time. Parts of the peninsula are still farmed, including areas used for growing grain, fruit and vegetables. Stay on marked routes and avoid walking across cultivated fields.

Plan your walk according to the terrain
Trail conditions vary. Some stretches follow broad tracks, while others cross narrow, rocky or uneven ground. The full coastal trail network has not been verified as accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs. Check your specific route before setting out if you need accessible paths.

The trails can be explored whenever weather and ground conditions allow. Wear shoes with good grip, bring a windproof layer for exposed coastal sections and respect the natural surroundings. Find official maps and trail information from Sandefjord Municipality.
For more walking options, explore the coastal trail on Østerøya and Yxney.

Plan your visit

The coastal trails on Vesterøya in Sandefjord pass through woodland, alongside farmland and towards rocky shores. Choose a shorter section or plan a longer walk towards Folehavna Fort.

Distance and terrain
The trail network totals approximately 25 km. This is not a single circular walk. Surfaces range from established tracks and woodland paths to stones and coastal rocks. Walking time and difficulty depend on your chosen route.

Trailheads and parking
Marked trails start near Gokstad Kystlag in Framnes and Djupsundveien at the inner end of Mefjorden. Other walking options can be found around Vøra, Langeby and Folehavna. Use the municipality's map to choose your starting point and parking area. Check current parking conditions.

Waymarking and accessibility
The trails have blue waymarks. Some sections are uneven and rocky. The complete network has not been verified as accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs. Check the details for your chosen section before setting out.

Good to know
Stay on marked paths and respect farmland, wildlife and historic remains. Do not cross cultivated fields. Never use disposable barbecues directly on coastal rocks, and follow current fire and access regulations. Take your litter home. At Folehavna, take care near historic military structures and steep coastal edges.

View trail maps and route information →

The coastal-path on Østerøya and Yxney

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 →

Bicycling in the Sandefjord area

Adventures need not entail expensive journeys to distant destinations. All you need is a bicycle. Between April and the end of September, Sandefjord is the perfect place for a cycling holiday. The land-scape is easy to cycle in, and you can choose what you want to see. What about cycling along smooth rocks and beaches on the Coastal Route that runs via Sandefjord? Or taking a tranquil trip through the woods along the beautiful Numedal Route?

Here are a couple of suggestions for either a daytrip for the more experienced cyclist, or a 2-3 days trip for those who want a more relaxing experience. There are a large number of places to stay on the way from camping and budget alternatives to more exclusive hotels.

ROUTE NR. 24, Sandefjord-Lågen (apx 90 km)
This is a very intresting route with changing scenery. It offers everything from coast and sea to woods, rivers and valleys.

From Sandefjord you follow the Åsrum Lake to Hagnes, and then to Pipenholt and Heia. Here you can see beautiful areas with woods and small inland waters. This area is very good for camping. Between Snappen and Hvarnes there are not paved roads, and the last kilometers can be a little steep for some.

From Hvarnes you follow "Opplevelseveien" south on the eastside of the river Lågen. By taking a little detour, you will reach Damvann. The water is in a "pot" where the mountain sides stands up 200 meters along the water. By Kvelde you will find an old setting of houses well preserved.

The route crosses the E-18 by Bommestad. Here you must pay attention since the road is very busy – be careful! In Larvik you can find Northern-Europe's largest beech forest, and several of the museums of the city are well worth a visit. From Larvik the route continues along the coast. On the way you will pass the famous setteling from the viking era where the country's first city from apx 700 AC is excavated each summer. By Tjøllingvollen you will pass Tjølling church from the first part of the 11th century.

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THE COSTAL ROUTE
The Costal Path runs along the coast from Svinesund/border with Sweden, and runs trough Sandefjord City Center.

**South on the Costal Route**
From Sandefjord, the path will take you over Tjøllingvollen on narrow roads a stretch away from the sea. You cycle past Kaupang, Norway's most famous Viking excavation. At Larvik's town square you can experience the exquisite beauty of the internationally famous Larvik granite, Larvikite. Before leaving Larvik, North-Europe's largest beech forest is worth a visit. There is also a jazz evening every Friday during the summer.

7.5 km away from Larvik you will find Stavern, an artists' town with a well of galleries and exhibitions. For generations artists have perpetualised the beautiful skerry landscape in their work, and many a poet has written a verse about Stavern.

The last few kilometres to Helgeroa take you through the exquisite Brunlanes, which thrives with beaches and camping sites. In Nevlunghavn, a small fishing town, you meet the open sea. You can sit on the quay-side, eating fresh prawns and listening to the cries of the seagulls, whilst watching the fishermen bring in their catch.

You cycle along a gravel track to Helgeroa, where there is a lovely marina and lots of places to eat out and enjoy the sea view. From Helgeroa, you can take the ferry to Langesund and continue your trip along the Telemark coastline.

**North on the Costal Route**
From Sandefjord you cycle through the Stokke region with the lovely villages of Melsomvik and Bogen towards Tønsberg past bird and nature reserves. You can also chose the alternative where you cycle from Sandefjord city centre to Engø. From there you take the cycle ferry "Juteøya" over to the car free island Veierland, and further to Nøtterøy in Tønsberg.

Tønsberg is the oldest town in Norway. In the centre of Tønsberg stands Slottsfjellet – castle hill – the town's historic pride. It is lovely to wander through the old town streets of Tønsberg or visit Haugar Vestfold Kunstmuseum, the town's art museum, which lies in the centre of town. On the quay-side in Tønsberg you will experience swarms of people and boat life to the extreme.

From Tønsberg continue to Åsgårdstrand, an idyllic town filled with quaint white wooden houses and a very special atmosphere. Edvard Munch, the famous artist, painted many of his most famous paintings here. As you stroll through the small winding streets, you will recognise the smell of newly baked "krabbelurer" (Norwegian doughnuts).

Then you can continue to Horten, an old, friendly maritime town. "Storgaten" – the main road – is the longest flower decorated road in Norway. The route passes through Borre national park, which has Europe's largest collection of royal graves from the Ynglinge family (Ynglingeætten). Here you also find Midgard Historical Centre.

If you want a longer trip, you can continue along the Costal Route to Oslo and Sweden.

The Tourist Office in Sandefjord sells cycle-maps of both The Costal Path and the Numedalsroute nr 24.

Skateboard – ramp

Bring your skateboard, stunt scooter, BMX bike or inline skates to Hjertnesstranda Skatepark in Sandefjord. Practise new tricks, challenge yourself and meet other riders just a short distance from the town centre.

A skatepark with varied challenges
The skatepark is located in a green area by the harbour, close to Scandic Park Sandefjord. The outdoor facility features ramps, edges and different areas where you can practise riding skills and tricks. Beginners and experienced riders can find challenges suited to their abilities.

More activities by the harbour
Hjertnesstranda offers several outdoor activities within easy walking distance. Combine your visit with a round at Hvalen Minigolf, or head to Strømbadet, the floating public bathing facility by the harbour. The surrounding area also has sand courts, outdoor exercise facilities, seating and communal barbecues.

Plan your visit
Hjertnesstranda Skatepark is located at Strandpromenaden 6 in Sandefjord, near the harbour and Scandic Park Sandefjord. The skatepark is open to all ages until 6:30 pm. From 6:30 pm to 10 pm, it is reserved for people over the age of 10.

Bring your own equipment, helmet and protective gear. Use of the skatepark is at your own risk. Only plastic pegs are permitted.
Parking is available in the Hjertnesstranda area, accessible from Strandpromenaden.

Find visitor information about Hjertnesstranda Skatepark from Sandefjord Municipality.

Badeparken

Badeparken is located between Sandefjord town centre and the waterfront, offering a green space with lawns, trees, ornamental ponds, sculptures and activities for all ages. Here you can take a break from the town, spend time at the playground, try the outdoor fitness area or continue towards Hjertnesstranda and the fjord. The park is also part of Sandefjord's history as a popular spa town.

Playgrounds, outdoor exercise and green spaces
Badeparken offers plenty of space for both activity and relaxation. Its open lawns and paths are ideal for a leisurely walk or a quiet break, while the playground provides opportunities for younger visitors to play, climb and explore. The outdoor fitness park has exercise equipment for visitors to use. Throughout the park, green spaces and ornamental ponds create a pleasant setting for spending time outdoors. Badeparken is also used for events during the year, including activities connected to Hjertnes Cultural Centre and its outdoor amphitheatre.

Discover the sculptures in Badeparken
At the centre of the park stands Poseidon, a sculpture installation by Norwegian artist Nina Sundbye. Unveiled in 2011, it is one of several works of art that make the park interesting to explore. Other sculptures and artworks throughout the park form part of Sandefjord's public art collection.
For more art around town, explore the sculptures in Sandefjord and continue to the Whaling Monument near the harbour. Created by Knut Steen, the monument reflects an important chapter in the town's maritime history.

From spa gardens to public park
Badeparken has its roots in the period when Sandefjord was known as a spa town. Sandefjord Bad opened in 1837, and the surrounding area gradually developed with promenades and landscaped grounds for spa visitors. In the early 20th century, walking paths and gardens were created around the spa buildings. The park took much of its present form in the years following the Second World War, with major landscaping work completed in 1953. Today, Badeparken preserves a connection to Sandefjord's spa heritage while serving as a green meeting place for residents and visitors.

Continue your walk towards the sea
At the lower end of Badeparken, the green spaces meet the fjord at Hjertnesstranda. Here you will find outdoor activity areas and Strømbadet, with the harbour promenade nearby. Combine a walk through the park with a visit to the Whaling Monument, or continue into central Sandefjord to explore local shops, cafés and the town's history.

Plan your visit
Badeparken is centrally located in Sandefjord, between Hjertnes Cultural Centre, Jernbanealleen and Strandpromenaden. The address area is Badeparken, 3210 Sandefjord, Norway. The park is a public green space that can be visited throughout the year. There is no admission fee or booking requirement. The playground, outdoor fitness area and paths are part of the regular park facilities. Events, temporary restrictions and seasonal activities may affect access to certain areas. For current information about the park, activities and events, visit the Sandefjord Municipality website.

Sandefjord Fotball

Sandefjord football is a young club established in 1998. The football club has developed from amatur towards professional football. Sandefjord football wish to keep develop towards being in the lead in Norway.

The club’s arena is Release Arena, with room for approx. 6500 people.

Tickets
Tickets are available here.

For more information about Sandefjord fotball club and matches, see the website.

Sculptures in Sandefjord

Sandefjord has a rich collection of sculptures in its parks, along the waterfront and in public spaces. Explore works by Knut Steen, Nina Sundbye, Nils Aas and Arnold Haukeland on a walk through the town centre. From the Whaling Monument by the harbour to sculptures in Badeparken and outside Hjertnes Cultural Centre, several artworks are within easy reach on foot.

Start your sculpture walk at the Whaling Monument
Near the harbour, you will find the Whaling Monument, one of Sandefjord's best-known landmarks. Created by Knut Steen, the dramatic sculpture depicts whalers rowing an open boat, with a harpoon ready and water splashing around them. The monument is shaped like a compass rose and slowly rotates on its own axis. It combines an impressive work of art with an important chapter of Sandefjord's maritime history.

Meet Poseidon in Badeparken
Continue to Badeparken, the green park between the town centre and the waterfront.
At the heart of the park stands Poseidon, a bronze sculpture group by Nina Sundbye. It depicts the Greek god of the sea accompanied by two sea nymphs and was unveiled in 1996. You will also find Knut Steen's Fortuna, inspired by the Roman goddess of fortune and fate. The park's paths, trees and green spaces offer a pleasant setting for exploring the artworks at your own pace.

Art outside Hjertnes Cultural Centre
Several notable works can be found around Hjertnes Cultural Centre. Arnold Haukeland's Havdronningen (The Sea Queen) stands outside the building, while Nils Aas created Fuge (Fugue), an artwork on the wall facing Badeparken. Here, sculpture and architecture come together as part of Sandefjord's public spaces.

Discover Knut Steen's sculptures at Midtåsen
For a more extensive art experience, visit Midtåsen Sculpture Park, a separate destination outside the town centre. The collection features 16 works by Knut Steen. Twelve marble sculptures are displayed inside the pavilion, while four bronze sculptures stand outdoors in the surrounding landscape. The sculpture pavilion is located on the former estate of shipowner Anders Jahre. The combination of art, architecture, parkland and views over Sandefjord makes Midtåsen a memorable destination.

Discover art throughout Sandefjord
Sandefjord's sculptures have also been documented in Verd å se (Worth Seeing), a book by Gro Laheld Lundh exploring the town's public artworks and their creators. You do not need a fixed route to enjoy the collection. Start by the harbour, continue through Badeparken and explore the area around Hjertnes Cultural Centre. Along the way, you will discover both prominent monuments and smaller artworks that are easy to miss.
For more inspiration, explore Architecture and Sculpture in Sandefjord.

Plan your visit
The sculptures are located across Sandefjord, with several works clustered around the harbour, Badeparken and Hjertnes Cultural Centre. The artworks in outdoor public spaces can be viewed without tickets or fixed opening hours. You can make your sculpture walk as short or as long as you like.

Midtåsen Sculpture Park is a separate excursion, located at Midtåsveien 2A. Admission is free, but check the current pavilion opening hours before visiting. Paths, surfaces and accessibility vary between locations. Visitors requiring step-free access should check their chosen route in advance.

Holmen Cafe, Granholmen Camping

Holmen Cafe is located at Granholmen Camping, five kilometres from Sandefjord town centre, right by the Sandefjord Fjord. The café offers light meals, a kiosk and a fully licensed bar. Enjoy food and drinks by the water, whether you're staying at the campsite or visiting for the day.

Food and Drinks
Holmen Cafe serves simple dishes and drinks in a relaxed waterfront setting. The café is licensed to serve alcohol and also has a kiosk, making it an easy stop during a day at Granholmen.

Swimming and Activities
Granholmen offers a swimming area, a jetty and spacious green areas. Take a dip in the fjord, relax by the water or explore the nearby walking trails. The campsite also offers stand-up paddleboard (SUP) and boat rentals.

Entertainment
During the summer season, Holmen Cafe hosts live entertainment featuring local artists. Follow the café's Facebook page for information about upcoming events.

Opening Hours
Holmen Cafe is open seasonally during the summer. The existing English Visit Vestfold listing states that the season runs from 1 May to 31 August, but these dates should be confirmed for the current season.

Visit the Granholmen Camping website or Facebook page for updated opening hours and events.

The Gokstad mound

The Gokstad Mound (Gokstadhaugen) is located along Helgerødveien, approximately two kilometres from the centre of Sandefjord. This is where the famous Gokstad ship was excavated in 1880, one of Norway's most important Viking ship discoveries. Today, you can visit the large, grass-covered burial mound and discover the story of the powerful Viking chieftain buried here more than a thousand years ago.

The final resting place of a Viking chieftain
Around AD 900, a powerful man was buried aboard the Gokstad ship, surrounded by objects intended to accompany him into the afterlife. The ship measured 23.5 metres in length, and archaeologists discovered three smaller boats, beds, shields, horses, dogs and birds of prey among the burial offerings. These discoveries reveal a man of considerable wealth and status, with connections reaching far beyond Vestfold. His identity remains unknown.

A discovery that made history
In the spring of 1880, archaeologist Nicolay Nicolaysen began excavating the Gokstad Mound. Parts of the ship were uncovered on the very first day, and the discovery attracted widespread attention. For the first time, researchers had a well-preserved Viking ship that revealed how these remarkable vessels were constructed. The Gokstad ship was later transported to Oslo. The burial mound remains in Sandefjord as an important reminder of the area's Viking heritage.

Visit the Gokstad Mound today
Today, the site is a small heritage park with information boards and seating areas. Visitors can explore the mound and learn about the Viking ship, the archaeological excavations and the people who lived here during the Viking Age. To discover how Viking ships were built, continue to Sandefjord Viking Park, where an archaeological reconstruction of the Gokstad ship is underway. The mound is also a stop along the Viking Trail through Vestfold. Other fascinating burial sites along the route include the Istrehågan burial ground and the Oseberg Mound, where the Oseberg ship was discovered in 1904.

Practical information
The Gokstad Mound is located along Helgerødveien, near Morellveien in Sandefjord. Parking is available beside the entrance, and the site can be reached by a pedestrian and cycle path. The park has information boards, benches and a water point. Norway's National Cycle Route 1 and the Tunsbergleden pilgrim trail pass nearby. You can explore the outdoor heritage site independently without booking a guided tour. Please respect the burial mound and its historic surroundings.