There may come a time when you start to feel a bit reclusive, and that’s when it’s time to leave the tranquillity of Nissedal behind and head for the coast, for example. Below are some coastal towns on the east coast that can be reached within a two-hour drive.
These coastal towns all feature characteristic white cottages, and the atmosphere is always friendly, even in high season. When the weather is fine, you’ll find clear blue skies, deep blue water and that salty scent that all coastal folk appreciate so much.
Kragerø
Kragerø, ‘the pearl among coastal towns’, has long been known for its timber exports and shipbuilding. In the 20th century, many artists were drawn to the town, and this is still very much evident today. Art is everywhere.
The town is special for its small galleries, charming streets and the characteristic white houses you find in coastal towns. It’s easy to park in the centre and walk up to enjoy the stunning views. We were absolutely charmed by this lovely little town. There are plenty of different things to do there.
Arendal
If you’re looking for a place with glamour, then Arendal is more your sort of place. In summer, the marina is full of exorbitantly expensive yachts. There’s often plenty going on, such as the Arendal Water Festival. If you head towards Fløyheia, you’ll drive all the way to the top, where you can park. The view is absolutely fantastic. From there, you can take the lift down, which leads to the ‘Pink Tunnel’, and then you can walk straight into the town centre.
Grimstad
Pay a visit to Grimstad if you’re looking for a charming coastal town with narrow streets and lovely little shops. You can walk through the little harbour via the jetty, and there are benches and other spots everywhere where you can sit and relax. There’s a shopping centre in the harbour where parking is free for the first two hours. In the area around Grimstad, you’ll find lots of fruit trees and even a vineyard. Check out the visitnorway.com website.
Lillesand
A really charming little town with those characteristic white houses. In summer, you’ll see beautiful gardens with bright blue hydrangeas. Next to the beautiful white church stands a conifer at least 25 metres tall. Just outside the town centre, you can walk into the woods via the Fløresteinen, where you’ll see all sorts of ‘branch art’ – figures made from branches. There are some really funny ones among them. The locals have built all sorts of little bridges themselves, so you can make your way right through the woods. When you reach the top, the view over the town is phenomenal.
Near Homborsund, there’s a walk that follows the coast, but it’s a challenging route over boulders and along narrow paths. Well worth the effort for the more experienced walker! On the nearby islet, you’ll see a lighthouse: Homborsund Fyr.
On your way there or back, drive through Reddal, with its lovely (vegetable) gardens and fields. It’s very idyllic.
