Skjærgårdsruta - The archipelago route

Experience the Telemark coast from your bicycle seat on the idyllic Coastal Path (Skjærgårdsruta). This popular stage of National Cycle Route No. 1 offers panoramic viewpoints, lovely swimming spots, and rich cultural history between the charming coastal towns of Langesund and Kragerø.

Route Information and Key Facts

Route Length: Langesund – Kragerø 58km (Langesund – Valle 21km)

Marking: Marked with Bike Route 1

Difficulty Level: Medium

Season: May-September

Suitable for: Adults

Highlights along the Telemark Coast

The cycle route Skjærgårdsruta is a perfect cycling trip for those who wish to combine an active holiday with coastal experiences. It starts in the sunny coastal town of Langesund and ends in the popular summer town of Kragerø.

Culture, Views, and Geology

The route provides easy access to several fantastic stopping points:

• Tangen Fort (Detour 1): A short detour from Langesund centre (Vaterlandsgate) offering fantastic views over the Skagerrak and the coast. The area is a protected nature reserve and features historical ruins from World War II. (Note! Wheel the bicycle, cycling is prohibited.)

• Rognsåsen (Detour 2): Panoramic views via a 2 km trail from the top of Tangvallkleivene. (Note! Wheel the bicycle, cycling is prohibited.)

• Rognstranda (Detour 3): A recommended stop at a lovely, gently sloping sandy beach and campsite. Here you will find information signs from the Gea Norvegica UNESCO Global Geopark detailing the area's exciting geology and history.

Road Standard and Route Description

The tour itself starts from the Kongshavn ferry terminal or Langesund centre and is well marked with signs for Cycle Route No. 1.

Langesund – Riis: Approximately 5 km after Langesund, the route turns east towards Riis and the E18. This stretch has light traffic but features steep downhills.

Riis – Valle: After the turn-off at Riis, the route goes through the forest (well marked). Be careful on one particularly steep and gravelly hill. The route then continues on a trafficked asphalt country road out to Valle.

Valle – Kragerø: The continuation towards Kragerø involves a narrow asphalt road and several ascents.

Accommodation, Eateries, and Transport

Accommodation along the Route

Several accommodation options make it easy to break up the journey:

• Langesund: Quality Hotel Skjærgården is an excellent starting point.

• Kjønnøya (Detour): Kjønnøya Camping

• Before Valle: Brevigstrand Camping (tents/cabins) and Sjøterrassen.

• Kragerø: Kragerø Sportell at the endpoint.

Eateries and Cafés

Cozy places to refuel:

• Langesund Centre: Papas (pizza) and Gjestgiveri Victoria (famous for fish soup).

• Trosby Super’n: Small café and pizza near the entrance to Kjønnøya (open from Easter).

• Sjøterrassen (Before Valle): Restaurant with beautiful sea views and food (open from Easter).

• Valle: Grocery store, restaurant, and niche shops (bustling life from Easter to September).

Transport and Ferries

Ferry services offer opportunities for combined travel:

• Helgeroa – Langesund: Runs from St. John’s Day (late June) to the start of the school year.

• Kragerø – Stabbestad: Ferry from Kragerø centre.

• Valle: Possibility to take a water taxi to Jomfruland for overnight stays and cycling tours, with a subsequent boat connection to Kragerø the following day.