Tønsberg & Færder Archives

Oseberghaugen – Royal mound

In Slagendalen, just outside Tønsberg, lies the Oseberg Mound, the burial site that concealed one of the richest archaeological discoveries from the Viking Age. When archaeologists excavated the mound in 1904, they uncovered the beautifully decorated Oseberg ship, an extraordinary collection of burial objects and the remains of two women buried here in AD 834. Today, you can visit the restored burial mound and discover the place where one of Norway's most important Viking Age discoveries was made.

Two women and a magnificent Viking ship
The Oseberg ship measures almost 22 metres in length and is famous for its elaborate wood carvings. It was used as a burial ship for two women, accompanied by an exceptional collection of objects. Among the discoveries were an elaborately decorated wagon, four sledges, five carved animal-head posts, textiles, beds and tools. The burial also contained the remains of animals, including horses and dogs.
The identities of the two women remain unknown. One was traditionally associated with Queen Åsa, but researchers have not been able to establish who the women were. The extraordinary burial objects nevertheless reveal the importance of the ceremony in Viking Age society.

The excavation that made history
The archaeological excavation began on 13 June 1904, led by Gabriel Gustafson with significant contributions from Haakon Schetelig. The discovery transformed our understanding of Viking shipbuilding, craftsmanship, textiles and burial traditions. Many objects were decorated with intricate animal motifs in the artistic style now known as the Oseberg style. The mound was restored after the excavation, and the women's remains were reburied here in 1948. It was reopened in 2007 to protect the remains from further deterioration.

Visit the Oseberg Mound today
The large, grass-covered burial mound stands in the rural landscape of Slagendalen. Information boards explain the history of the ship burial and its archaeological discovery. The original Oseberg ship is preserved in Oslo, at the new Museum of the Viking Age. The museum is currently being completed and is not yet open to visitors. To see what the Oseberg ship looked like, visit Vikingodden in Tønsberg. Here you can discover Saga Oseberg, an archaeological reconstruction of the original ship, when it is moored in the harbour.

You can also visit the Slottsfjells Museum, which tells the story of the Oseberg discovery and displays the preserved Klåstad Viking ship.

Explore more Viking heritage in Vestfold
The Oseberg Mound is a stop along the Viking Trail through Vestfold, connecting some of the region's most important archaeological sites. Other places worth visiting include the Gokstad Mound in Sandefjord, where the Gokstad ship was excavated in 1880, and the Borre burial mounds in Horten, featuring monumental burial mounds from the Late Iron Age.

Practical information
The Oseberg Mound is located along Osebergstien in Slagendalen, Tønsberg municipality. You can explore the burial mound independently. Information boards are available at the site, and a cultural heritage trail follows the nearby Vellebekken stream.

Please respect the burial mound and its surroundings. This is a protected archaeological site, and digging or damaging the monument is prohibited.

Coastal trails on the island of Hvasser and Tjøme

Hvasser, an island in Færder Municipality, offers coastal walks through woodland, across rocky shores and alongside the sea. Choose between a shorter circular route of approximately 3.6 kilometres in the north of the island, from Sandøsund via Lilleskagen, or a longer 11.2-kilometre walk around Hvasser. Both offer opportunities to enjoy the island's coastal scenery at your own pace.

Hvasser North – a circular walk via Lilleskagen
The shorter route can begin at Sandøsund or the car park near Lilleskagen. From Sandøsund, the path heads north through varied coastal terrain, with narrow trails, rocky surfaces and some uneven sections. At Lilleskagen, the landscape opens towards the sea. Here you will find a sandy beach and smooth coastal rocks, making it a pleasant place to stop for a picnic or a swim in suitable conditions.

From Lilleskagen, the circular route continues west towards the parking area. Most of this section follows wider walking paths, gravel tracks and some paved stretches before returning towards Sandøsund.

A break by the beach at Lilleskagen
Lilleskagen is a coastal recreation area in northern Hvasser, with a sandy beach, gently sloping rocks and views across the archipelago. Nearby Bitteskagen offers another stretch of rocky shoreline. There are toilets and a car park at Lilleskagen, approximately a five-minute walk from the beach. Although access to the beach is relatively well developed, the complete circular route has uneven sections and should not be assumed suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Fancy a longer walk around Hvasser?
For a longer outing, the Hvasser circular walk covers approximately 11.2 kilometres and takes you through more of the island's coastal landscape. Parking is listed at Lilleskagen and Fynsletta. Check the complete route map before setting out, particularly to understand the trail surfaces and wayfinding along the longer walk.

Finish your walk in Sandøsund
Sandøsund makes a convenient starting or finishing point for the shorter route. Around the harbour, fishing and leisure boats create a lively maritime setting. During the summer season, you can also find restaurants, small shops and other places to stop. For more ideas, explore Coastal trails at Nøtterøy and Tjøme or discover Beaches in Færder.

Be prepared for changing terrain
Hvasser North combines narrow nature trails with easier walking paths. Wear shoes with a good grip, especially when the rocks are wet. The trails can be explored at different times of year, depending on weather and ground conditions. Stay on the marked paths, take your litter home and respect the local wildlife and natural surroundings.

Plan your visit

On Hvasser, you can choose between a shorter circular walk via Sandøsund and Lilleskagen or a longer route around the island. Choose the walk that suits your time and experience.

Distance and duration
Hvasser North is listed as approximately 3.6 km. UT.no estimates around 1 hour and 30 minutes. The longer Hvasser circular route is approximately 11.2 km. The walking time for the full route has not been verified.

Starting points and parking
You can start Hvasser North at Sandøsund or the Lilleskagen car park. Parking for the longer route is listed at Lilleskagen and Fynsletta. Check local parking conditions, especially during summer.

Terrain and accessibility
Between Sandøsund and Lilleskagen, expect narrow paths, rocks and uneven terrain. The return section mainly follows wider walking paths, gravel tracks and some paved sections. The full circular route has not been verified as suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Public transport
Bus services connect Tønsberg and Sandøsund. Check current timetables with the local public transport provider before travelling.

Good to know
Lilleskagen has a sandy beach, smooth coastal rocks and toilets. Check the map for your chosen route. Wear sturdy footwear and take extra care on wet or icy rocks.

View walking maps →

Coastal trail on the island Middle Bolæren

Mellom Bolæren is an island in the Bolærne archipelago within Færder National Park. A marked coastal trail of approximately 1.5 kilometres connects the Kongshavnsundet and Jensesund areas. Along the way, you pass mature deciduous woodland, restored smallholdings, Bronze Age burial mounds and traces of the island's military history.

Woodland paths and island heritage
For generations, Mellom Bolæren was home to fishing families, maritime pilots and people who lived from small-scale farming. The marked trail crosses woodland and open areas, with occasional views across the surrounding archipelago. At Jensesund, restored smallholdings offer a glimpse of everyday island life. One of the buildings is now used as a coastal trekking cabin. Allow time to explore the area around the historic buildings and discover how people lived on the islands before modern transport links.

Grevestuen and the burial mounds
In a woodland clearing, you will find Grevestuen, a protected country retreat built for Count Peder Anker Wedel Jarlsberg around 1840. The building has been restored and is an important part of the island's cultural heritage. Mellom Bolæren also has burial mounds dating back to the Bronze Age, showing that people used the island thousands of years ago.

Traces of the Second World War
Mellom Bolæren has a difficult wartime history. During the Second World War, a prison camp for Soviet prisoners of war was established on the island. Remains of the camp are still visible. They are an important reminder of the suffering experienced by the prisoners and form part of the island's historical story. Volunteers from Mellem-Bolærens Venner have helped restore buildings, clear vegetation and make the heritage sites more accessible. A guided visit can offer additional insight into this history.

Plan your island visit
The coastal trail is approximately 1.5 kilometres long, and the crossing takes around 30 minutes on foot without extended stops. Allow more time if you want to explore the historic sites. Mellom Bolæren is reached by boat. Flightboat operates seasonal services from Husvik near Tønsberg. Water taxis and private boats are alternative ways to reach the island. As the trail connects two different parts of the island, check where your boat will arrive and how you will make your return journey.

Protect the natural surroundings
Mellom Bolæren is part of Færder National Park, an area of protected nature and important cultural heritage. Stay on established paths, take your litter away and leave historic remains undisturbed. Some parts of the island have improved access, but the full coastal trail has not been verified as suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. For more island experiences, discover Bolærne or explore Hiking and coastal trails in Vestfold.

Plan your visit

The coastal trail on Mellom Bolæren connects Kongshavnsundet and Jensesund. The island can be reached by passenger boat from Husvik near Tønsberg, water taxi or private boat.

Distance and duration
Approximately 1.5 km one way. Walking across the island takes around 30 minutes without long stops. Allow extra time for the historic sites, and plan your walk around your boat's arrival point.

Boat services and access
Flybåten operates seasonal services from Husvik. Departure times, fares and stops may change. Confirm that your service calls at Mellom Bolæren and arrange your return journey before travelling. Water taxis are another option.

Terrain and accessibility
The marked paths pass through woodland and historic farmland. Some parts of the island have improved wheelchair access, but accessibility has not been verified for the entire coastal trail. Wear sturdy walking shoes.

Good to know
Mellom Bolæren is part of Færder National Park. Respect wildlife, plants and historic remains. Check the current rules on camping, fires and access. Scheduled passenger boat services are seasonal and weather-dependent.

View boat timetables and fares →

Coastal trails at Nøtterøy and Tjøme

Nøtterøy, Tjøme and Hvasser in Færder Municipality offer coastal walks ranging from short outings to longer hikes. The trails take you through woodland, past marinas and beaches, and across open coastal rocks overlooking the sea. Choose from marked walking routes, circular trails and a few unmarked connections. Distances, starting points and terrain vary between routes. Check the map for your chosen walk, especially if you plan a longer point-to-point hike.

Short coastal walks on Nøtterøy
The coastal trail between Årøysund and Torødstranda is approximately 1 kilometre long. It begins where Middelborgveien branches off Årøyveien and continues via Middelborg and Kirkestien towards the beach. Blue posts and signs mark the route. For a longer outing, the approximately 3-kilometre trail from Hjemseng to Oterbekk passes Nesbryggen, Dukenveien and Knarberg marina before continuing across Ulvøåsen. The surroundings change from local roads to woodland and rocky shores. Parts of the route follow roads used by vehicles, so take care around traffic.

Along Vestfjorden from Hella to Vrengen
An approximately 8-kilometre coastal trail connects Søndre Hella and Vrengen Bridge. The route follows Vestfjorden through varied coastal scenery, with places to enjoy sea views and stop for a break. At Hella, you can also find Iron Age burial remains and a distinctive rock formation known as Fandens spillebord. The trail has blue waymarks and information boards. As it is a point-to-point route, arrange your return journey in advance.

Moutmarka – open coastal scenery
On Tjøme, a blue-marked coastal trail crosses Moutmarka between Mostranda and Skåebukta. This approximately 3-kilometre walk passes smooth rocks, rounded pebbles, grassy slopes and open sea views. Some sections are uneven and exposed to wind, so sturdy shoes and a windproof jacket are recommended. Færder Municipality also describes a separate circular route of approximately 3.5 kilometres starting near Mostranda.

Coastal walks on Hvasser
Hvasser offers a longer island walk and a shorter circular route in the north. Hvasser rundt is listed as approximately 11.2 kilometres. The shorter Hvasser North route is approximately 3.6 kilometres and can be started at Sandøsund or Lilleskagen. Between Sandøsund and Lilleskagen, expect narrow paths, stones and uneven terrain. Other parts of the shorter circuit mainly follow wider tracks, gravel paths and some paved sections. It is a good choice for combining harbour scenery, coastal woodland and the beach at Lilleskagen.

History and sea views on Tjøme
Tjøme also has an approximately 2.5-kilometre unmarked path between Torås Fort and Havna. Use an up-to-date map and confirm the route before attempting it. At Verdens Ende, the southern tip of Tjøme, you will find open coastal scenery and views across the Skagerrak. The distinctive tipping lighthouse is a well-known local landmark. Verdens Ende borders Færder National Park, an area with valuable coastal habitats and special access rules in certain locations.

Choose a route that suits you
The coastal trails on Nøtterøy and Tjøme vary from local roads and gravel tracks to narrow woodland paths, rocky shorelines and exposed coastal rocks. The entire network has not been verified as accessible for wheelchairs, pushchairs or bicycles. Check the terrain and access information for the specific walk you choose.

The trails can be explored whenever weather and ground conditions allow. Take particular care on wet rocks, respect wildlife and vegetation, and follow local signs and protected-area regulations. You can find official walking maps for Nøtterøy and Tjøme from Færder Municipality, including information about trails, bathing areas and parking. For more ideas, explore Hiking and coastal trails in Vestfold.

Plan your visit

Nøtterøy, Tjøme and Hvasser offer several coastal walking routes with different distances, starting points and terrain. Choose a specific walk and consult the map before travelling.

Distance and route options
Årøysund–Torødstranda is approximately 1 km, Hjemseng–Oterbekk 3 km and Hella–Vrengen 8 km. The Mostranda–Skåebukta section through Moutmarka is listed as approximately 3 km. Hvasser North is a 3.6 km circular walk, while Hvasser rundt is approximately 11.2 km. These are separate routes.

Starting points and parking
Possible starting points include Torødstranda, Knarberg, Hella, Vrengen, Verdens Ende, Sandøsund and Lilleskagen. Parking is mentioned near several trailheads, but current conditions and capacity have not been verified. Arrange return transport for point-to-point walks.

Terrain and accessibility
Some walks follow roads or wide gravel tracks, while others cross narrow woodland paths, stones and coastal rocks. Moutmarka has uneven, wind-exposed sections. The entire network has not been verified as suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. Check the route before setting out.

Good to know
Most listed routes have blue waymarks, but the Torås Fort–Havna connection is described as unmarked. Trail conditions depend on weather and season. Wear suitable footwear and respect the local rules on fires, dogs, nature protection and access.

View trail maps and route information →

Ancient burial ground at Hella

At Søndre Hella on Nøtterøy, you can explore an ancient burial ground with more than 20 recorded burial monuments dating from the Iron Age. The site faces west towards Vestfjorden and forms part of a coastal area also popular for walking and swimming. It is a place where natural surroundings and ancient history come together.

An ancient burial ground by the fjord
The burial ground at Søndre Hella contains both small and large burial monuments believed to date from the Iron Age. Several graves show signs of disturbance, but none have been archaeologically excavated. As a result, we do not know for certain who was buried here. The area was cleared and maintained through conservation work in the 1990s and around the year 2000, making the burial monuments easier to recognise in the landscape.

Ancient routes connecting land and sea
Søndre Hella was more than a burial site. Old sunken tracks, formed by generations of people travelling along the same routes, lead from inland Nøtterøy towards the fjord. These tracks reveal the importance of the sea as a transport route, connecting farms and settlements on Nøtterøy with the mainland. Archaeological traces of earlier settlement and cultivation have also been recorded near the burial ground. Together, they tell the story of a landscape used by people for many centuries.

The Devil's Gaming Table
One of the area's most unusual features is a stone formation known as Fandens spillebord, or the Devil's Gaming Table. It consists of a large boulder resting on several smaller stones. Its origin remains uncertain, and it is not known whether the formation has a direct connection to the burial ground. The unusual arrangement and intriguing name make it a distinctive part of the area's cultural heritage.

Explore more of Vestfold's ancient history
For another remarkable Viking Age burial site, visit the Oseberg Mound in Tønsberg, where the famous Oseberg ship and the remains of two women were discovered in 1904. You can also explore the Viking Trail through Vestfold, connecting some of the region's most important archaeological sites.

Practical information
Søndre Hella is located on the western side of Nøtterøy in Færder municipality, overlooking Vestfjorden. The outdoor burial ground can be explored independently. The surrounding area is also used for walking and swimming, but visitors should treat the ancient monuments with care. Follow established paths and avoid moving stones or disturbing the burial mounds and surrounding ground. There is no need to book a guided tour to see the burial ground.

Castle Rock Tower

Castle Rock Tower (Slottsfjelltårnet) is one of Tønsberg's most recognisable landmarks. Standing 17 metres tall above the town centre, the stone tower was completed in 1888 to commemorate the town's millennium celebrations. Visit for views across Tønsberg and the Oslofjord, and explore the remains of Tunsberghus, one of medieval Norway's most important royal castles.

A historic tower overlooking Tønsberg
When Castle Rock Tower is open, visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the town, harbour and surrounding landscape. Inside the tower, you can discover historical exhibits, including a cross from the medieval St Mary's Church and bricks recovered from the castle ruins. The tower also bears the signatures of three Norwegian kings: Haakon VII, Olav V and Harald V. Outside stands a bronze model by artist Cato Enger, illustrating what medieval Tønsberg may once have looked like.

The royal castle of Tunsberghus
The tower is impressive, but the surrounding ruins tell an even older story.
During the Middle Ages, the great royal fortress of Tunsberghus stood on this hill. Under King Haakon Haakonsson, the castle was strengthened with stone walls, defensive towers and buildings associated with royal power. Today, you can explore the remains of St Michael's Church, the royal hall and parts of the fortress. The hill was the setting for dramatic events during Norway's medieval civil wars, when rival groups fought for control of the kingdom. The fortress gradually lost its importance and was attacked and burned in 1503. It was never rebuilt.

Walk through centuries of history
Castle Rock is more than a viewpoint. Walking paths lead past ancient stone walls, grassy areas and viewpoints overlooking Tønsberg. You can enjoy the castle grounds even when the tower itself is closed. To discover more about the medieval town, visit the Slottsfjells Museum at the foot of the hill. Its exhibitions explore the town's history, the Viking Age and the Oseberg discovery. You can also continue to the ruins of Olav's Church in central Tønsberg, the site of Norway's only securely documented medieval round church.

Practical information
Castle Rock Tower is located on Slottsfjellet, close to central Tønsberg.
The outdoor castle ruins can be visited throughout the year. The tower itself has seasonal opening hours, and admission tickets are required to enter. The Slottsfjells Museum lists regular tower opening hours of Saturday and Sunday, 11 am–4 pm, during designated opening periods. The tower is closed during the low season, and special holiday schedules may apply.

The route to the tower leads uphill, and there are steps inside the building. Visitors requiring step-free access should check accessibility arrangements before travelling. See the official Slottsfjells Museum visitor information for current opening hours, admission prices and visitor arrangements.

Minigolf

Bring family or friends to Havna Hotel & Sjøbad on Tjøme for a round of minigolf. The course is located on the hotel grounds beside Røssesund, surrounded by coastal scenery.

Minigolf for all ages
Who can finish with the fewest strokes? Minigolf is an enjoyable activity for children and adults, with the chance to challenge each other and play at your own pace. You don't need to bring equipment. Clubs and balls can be rented from the hotel reception, with drop-in play available during the summer season.

More activities by the sea
Make a day of it with other outdoor activities at Havna Hotel & Sjøbad, including tennis, volleyball, shuffleboard and a children's playground. The hotel overlooks Røssesund and has its own waterfront. Combine your minigolf game with other activities or some time relaxing by the sea. For more coastal scenery, visit Verdens Ende – The World's End, known for its distinctive tipping lighthouse, smooth coastal rocks and views across the archipelago.

Plan your visit
The minigolf course is located at Havna Hotel & Sjøbad, Havnaveien 50, Tjøme.
Minigolf is a seasonal summer activity with drop-in play. Visit the hotel reception to rent equipment and check prices and availability. Exact opening hours and seasonal dates have not been confirmed. Contact the hotel before travelling to make sure the course is available.

Visit Havna Hotel & Sjøbad for further information.

VKT local bus, train, ferry

Find journey
Download VKT Reise app and plan your journey quick and easy using your mobile phone. You can also use VKT Journey planner at www.vkt.no . They both include live departures.

Tickets and fares
Download VKT Mobilbillett and buy the tickets with your mobile phone. This is the easiest way to buy tickets. You can buy single tickets and 24-hour tickets with the app.

You can also buy tickets on VKT`s sales outlets in the largest cities in Vestfold.

You also may buy tickets on board buses.
You will find the fares at www.vkt.no.

Contact VKT
Call VKT Customer Service Centre at 177. Are you calling from outside Norway? Call us at (+47) 815 00 199.
You can also visit VKT Customer Service Centre at Tønsberg bus terminal.
If you have simple questions and need quick answers you can contact VKT on Facebook.

Download:
VKT Reise in App store
VKT Reise in Google play

VKT Mobilbillett in App store
VKT Mobilbillett in Google play

Galleri Gudem

Enjoy the peace and quiet and let the surroundings engulf you.

Lean back with nature's artwork right outside the window, wonderful walking opportunities along the beach, rocky cliffs, fresh sea air, as well as Norwegian contemporary art that fills the gallery's walls.

The place
Location and views are magnificent. Right in the center of Hvasser.

Here you get a kitchen with the possibility to cook and a nice dining area both inside and outside.

Galleri Gudem has a delicate bathroom and laundry room, with a shower cubicle, designed by the artist himself.

You will of course find art on every wall.

The gallery is best suited for 4 adults and 2 children.

Gudem Seacation

Gudem Seacation is a boat that is furnished and designed in harmony with its surroundings – blue tones that mirror sky and sea, the view is magnificent and beautiful and gives peace of mind.

Gudem Seacation offers luxurious and stylish facilities and wonderful comfort.

The place
When the weather permits, and the captain is free, Ragnar will drive you out into the archipelago, and possibly anchor at Sandøya, an island with a beautiful sandy beach and wonderful swimming opportunities.

There are two paddle boards (SUP) available, as well as life jackets and a small River boat with an outboard motor, allowed for everyone to drive.

Gudem Secation has a high standard and elements of Nordic design. Here you'll find a large, lovely lounge on the roof and delicious dock chairs right outside the dining room, where you can enjoy the view in the sun with a drink or a good book.

The boat will be on the water from April to October, and then on the wharf right next to the water.