Midtåsen stands on a hill overlooking Sandefjord and was once the home of shipping magnate Anders Jahre and his wife Bess. The grand villa was built in 1933 and designed by Norwegian architect Arnstein Arneberg. Today, you can join guided tours of the historic interiors, explore the landscaped grounds or visit the sculpture pavilion featuring works by Knut Steen. The estate also offers views across Sandefjord and the fjord.
Step inside Anders Jahre's historic villa
Behind the doors of Midtåsen, the historic interiors tell the story of one of Sandefjord's best-known shipping families. On a guided tour, you can learn about Anders and Bess Jahre, explore selected rooms and experience the atmosphere of the former private residence. Several rooms retain their historic character, with furniture, artwork and interior details offering an insight into the couple's lifestyle. The villa was used to welcome business associates and international guests. Public guided tours are offered on selected dates during the summer season. Private group tours can also be arranged in advance.
The story of Anders and Bess Jahre
Anders Jahre was an influential figure in Norwegian shipping and whaling. Midtåsen was built in 1933, during a period when Sandefjord's maritime industries played a major international role. Architect Arnstein Arneberg designed the main building in a restrained functionalist style. The villa occupies an elevated position, surrounded by landscaped terraces, mature trees and views towards the Sandefjord Fjord. The property remained home to Anders and Bess Jahre until his death in 1982. Bess continued living there until she died in 2006. Today, Midtåsen is preserved as a historic estate and is used for guided tours, cultural events and private functions.
Explore the sculpture park and gardens
The landscaped grounds surrounding the villa feature mature oak trees, walking paths, flower beds and benches. Take a stroll through the park and enjoy the views over Sandefjord. The grounds also contain Midtåsen Sculpture Park, featuring 16 works by Norwegian sculptor Knut Steen. Twelve marble sculptures are displayed inside the pavilion, while four bronze sculptures are positioned outdoors. Admission to the sculpture pavilion is free, and it has separate opening hours. You do not need to join a villa tour to enjoy the sculpture park and gardens.
From private residence to event venue
Today, Midtåsen is also used for meetings, conferences, weddings and other events. Its historic reception rooms offer a distinctive setting for private and corporate gatherings. Catering, accommodation and event arrangements are available through Unike Midtåsen. These services must be booked in advance and have separate prices. The villa is also known as a filming location for the Norwegian television programme Forræder, the local version of The Traitors. You can read more in Visit Vestfold's article about the villa and the television series, available in Norwegian.
Discover more of Sandefjord's history
A visit to Midtåsen can be combined with other historic attractions in Sandefjord. At the Whaling Museum, you can explore the industry that shaped Sandefjord's maritime history. Near the harbour, you will also find the Whaling Monument, created by Knut Steen, whose sculptures are also featured at Midtåsen.
Plan your visit
Midtåsen is located at Midtåsveien 2A, 3226 Sandefjord, Norway.
The interior of the villa can be visited on guided tours offered on selected dates during the summer season. There is no regular independent access to the main building. In 2026, public guided tours cost NOK 250 per person. Tours started at 2 pm and lasted approximately 90 minutes. The advertised tours for the season have now ended. New dates and prices must be confirmed before the next season. Private guided tours for groups can be arranged in advance. The operator currently lists a group price of NOK 2,500 for a tour lasting approximately one hour.
The landscaped grounds are open to the public, while the sculpture pavilion is open throughout the year from 10 am to 7 pm, with free admission.
Parking is available near the villa, to the left before the entrance gate. The estate has paths and terraced grounds. Visitors requiring step-free access or information about accessibility inside the villa should contact the venue in advance.
For guided tours and bookings, contact Unike Midtåsen on +47 458 30 296 or by email at midtaasen@unikehoteller.no.
Visit the official Midtåsen website for current tour dates, admission prices and booking information.