Coastal trails in Stokke

Along Vestfjorden in Stokke, in the northern part of Sandefjord Municipality, marked coastal trails pass through woodland, past beaches and alongside small bays. The trail network runs from the border with Tønsberg via Brunstad and Melsomvik towards Vårnes. You can choose a shorter section by the water or follow the separate circular walk from Bogen to Sundåsen.

From the municipal border to Brunstad

In the northern part of the network, the coastal trails pass Olsåsen and Rossnesodden before reaching Brunstad. Here, the route alternates between local roads, woodland and recreation areas near the shore. Rossnesodden and Brunstad provide opportunities to stop and enjoy the waterside setting. This northern section is listed as approximately seven kilometres, including associated circular trails. Consult the map to select your preferred route.

From Brunstad to Melsomvik

Approximately 3.4 kilometres of marked coastal trail connect Brunstad and Melsomvik.

The route passes through varied woodland and coastal terrain. Near Trælsodden, you will find historical remains dating from different periods, including the Second World War. Around Melsomvik, Sandbånn and Leidangen offer grassy recreation areas and sandy beaches where you can stop for a break. Sandbånn also has areas for play and outdoor activities, making it a useful place to pause during a family outing.

From Melsomvik towards Vårnes

The next marked section runs approximately 2.7 kilometres from Melsomvik via Solnes towards Vårnes. Parts of the route cross uneven woodland terrain, with slopes and steps in places. Choose your path carefully if you prefer an easier walk. At Vårnes, there is a coastal recreation area with a bathing spot and places to stop beside the water.

A circular walk from Bogen to Sundåsen

For a separate circular route, follow the approximately 3-kilometre marked trail from Bogen quay to Sundåsen. The walk leads through woodland towards the hilltop, where you can enjoy views across the fjord and find traces of historic coastal defences. From Sundåsen, continue back towards Bogen. You can also enjoy the beach and waterfront at Bogen without completing the entire loop.

Choose a section that suits you

Some parts of the coastal trail network follow established paths suitable for pushchairs. Other sections cross uneven woodland, roots, stones and steeper ground. The entire network has not been verified as accessible for wheelchairs, pushchairs or bicycles. Sandefjord Municipality's map uses solid lines for marked paths suitable for pushchairs and dashed lines for routes across natural terrain. Walking conditions vary with the weather and season. Wet leaves, rocks and roots may be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.

Explore more of the Vestfjorden coast

If you would like to combine your walk with a swim, see Beaches in Sandefjord, including bathing areas around Vårnes, Brunstad and Melsomvik. For another experience by the water, discover the sauna in Melsomvik, which has its own booking arrangements and visitor rules. For more ideas, explore Hiking and coastal trails in Vestfold.

Plan your visit

The Stokke coastal trails follow Vestfjorden from the Tønsberg municipal boundary via Brunstad and Melsomvik to Vårnes. Bogen has a separate circular walk to Sundåsen.

Distance and route options

Sandefjord Municipality lists 11.1 km of continuous coastal trail. Published sections include approximately 7 km in the north including loops, 3.4 km from Brunstad to Melsomvik, and 2.7 km from Melsomvik to Vårnes. The Bogen–Sundåsen circular route is approximately 3 km. Use the map to select your route; the exact length of a single end-to-end walk requires clarification.

Trailheads and parking

Several starting points are available, including Brunstad, Melsomvik, Vårnes and Bogen. Parking areas are signposted from road 303. Check the location and conditions for your chosen trailhead.

Terrain and accessibility

Some sections use broad walking paths suitable for pushchairs, while others cross uneven woodland with roots, rocks, inclines and steps. On the municipal map, solid lines indicate pushchair-friendly marked paths and dashed lines indicate natural trails. Wheelchair accessibility has not been verified for the entire network.

Good to know

Arrange return transport for point-to-point walks. Some bathing areas have summer-only toilets. Follow waymarks, respect nature and historic remains, and take your litter home. Check current fire regulations before using designated fire or barbecue areas.

View trail maps and route information →