Norway's summer island paradise

The sounds of waves, laughter, and seagulls screeching. The salty scent of the ocean and seaweed. Feel yourself relax completely as you hear the soft, steady monotonous beat from the engine of a snekke, the ubiquitous small wooden boats found all along the coast.

The Southern Norwegian skjærgård, the archipelago consisting of thousands of small islands and islets along the coastline, is the Norwegians’ own summer paradise. Here you can enjoy lazy days and leave your hectic everyday life behind for a while.

"Summer, swimming, smooth boulders by the sea, boating, traditional white-painted wooden houses, and the calm temperament of the region. That’s the real Southern Norway," says head of sales and marketing at USUS, Elisabeth Høibo.

“Southern Norway is suitable for everyone, and perhaps families with children in particular. No matter where you want to go, the distances are short and it’s easy to get around,” she says. She does not hesitate when asked what foreign visitors should see.

“Many Norwegians, including the crown prince and princess, travel to the archipelago to spend their summer holiday here,” says Høibo.

Sunny islands

The southernmost parts of Norway draw visitors with its comfortable climate and many sunny days.

Whether you have your own boat or are renting a kayak, you can go ashore on almost every islet or island you find.

The right to roam

As in other parts of the country, the right to roam includes the archipelago in Southern Norway. This means that everyone has the unrestricted right to freely access uncultivated fields, regardless of who owns the land.

“The municipalities are actively working against privatisation and development in the coastal zone. Still, you’ll find private properties in some places, and they should be respected,” says Høibo.

Nevertheless, with plenty of coastline and thousands of islands and reefs, you have free access almost everywhere.

Island hopping in Southern Norway

With so many exciting islands, it can be helpful to seek out some advice on where to go. Here are Elisabeth Høibo's recommendation on which islands you should to visit. They can easily be combined as a varied and rewarding island hopping adventure.

Sandøya island

Close to the town of Tvedestrand, Sandøya provides beautiful bays and a rocky coastline perfect for sunbathing and swimming, surrounded by cosy homes. Other things to do include a visit to local craftsmen, enjoying a cinnamon bun at the bakery Brød og Vind, and tasting delicious fish soup at Café Bastehaven. You can reach the island by ferry.

Merdø island

Merdø is located furthest out on the archipelago near the city of Arendal. Stroll among blooming gardens, long beaches, and great ocean views. In summer, there’s a café at Merdøhus Museum that's well worth visiting. Bring your bathing suit, a packed lunch, and some money for ice cream or a drink. If you want to stay the night, you need to bring a tent.

The island is easily accessible by ferry, departing from Pollen in Arendal city centre. In the summer season, the ferry runs every half hour.

Bragdøya island

Located just outside of Kristiansand city centre you’ll find the beautiful island of Bragdøya, with the county’s finest beach and lovely shallow water. You can rent a boat or go hiking on one of the islands great trails. Camping is permitted. In summer, the 'swimming boat' runs daily. Don't miss it!

Ny-Hellesund island

In Søgne, not far from Kristiansand, you’ll find the old harbour on the island of Ny-Hellesund. The island is home to one of Southern Norway’s finest examples of a traditional coastal settlement. Spend the night in a modern apartment at the guesthouse Verftet by the waterside and enjoy a delicious meal and breathtaking views at Bølgen & Moi.

In Ny-Hellesund you can also walk the coastal path from Verfet to Olavsundet. The walk is suitable for all ages. You can pitch your tent at Olavsundet. Don’t forget to visit the exciting coastal fort from the Second World War.

A ferry runs all year round, which also calls at Monsøya, Helgeøya, and Kapelløya.

Ryvingen lighthouse

Situated outside the city of Mandal, Ryvingen is the southernmost lighthouse in Norway. It's also possible to stay the night (affordably)! On the mainland, Tregde Ferie offers ocean rafting, which is a fun and exhilarating ride.

The tourist office in Mandal can provide you with all the information you need on boat rentals with or without a skipper.

Hidra island

The biggest island in the county of Vest-Agder, Hidra is situated just outside of the small town of Flekkefjord. The area has been settled for thousands of years and 600 people live on the idyllic island today.

Spend the night in the cosy guesthouse Skipperhuset, and visit the exciting gift and interior shop Fruenes Hus in Kirkehamn. Here you can also taste some typical Norwegian cakes. Kongshamn pier restaurant, a restored ice-house and fish processing facility from 1886, contains a bar, a restaurant, and art made by renowned Hidra artist Olav Omland.

The ferry to Hidra runs from Kvellandsstrand, a ten-minute drive from the centre of Flekkefjord. It’s also possible to take a bus from Flekkefjord to Hidra.