Hvaler: Island Nature, Coastal Paths and Culture

Hvaler consists of 833 islands and skerries. Ytre Hvaler National Park covers a large part of Hvaler’s west coast. The park’s archipelago contains large, connected areas with rich biodiversity on land and underwater. Nature, trails and coastal history offer different focuses for your trip. When looking for a hotel in Hvaler, first consider whether you mainly want to hike, observe wildlife, swim or explore the history of the coast.

Nature and Wildlife Watching on Asmaløy

Rare birds are often spotted on Asmaløy during migration, and white-tailed eagles and golden eagles also occur there in winter. The season therefore helps determine which of these sightings will be the main focus of your nature interests. The island is also home to the early purple orchid, which is found nowhere else in Norway. As well as being important for birdlife, the island offers a special connection to the local flora.

Hiking on Kirkøy and Asmaløy

Ytre Hvaler National Park has a network of trails suitable for hiking. On Kirkøy, the Coastal Path starts at the national park centre in Skjærhalden and leads to Homlungen Lighthouse. In the west of Asmaløy, marked trails run from Åsebu in the north to Vikerhavn. On Kirkøy, the Coastal Path is a named route leading to Homlungen Lighthouse, while the marked trails are in the west of Asmaløy.

Beaches and Time Outdoors

Storesand is a large natural outdoor area set up for swimming, walks, play and nature experiences. There is also a kiosk and a beach café. Both may be seasonal; if needed, check in advance whether they will be open during your trip. Kroksand beach also offers specific points to help with planning: it has a bathing jetty and a diving tower, and is considered suitable for the whole family. Facilities may change or be seasonal, so check the current situation before visiting.

Art and Coastal History

The StenKunstHvaler outdoor exhibition at Rødshue on Kirkøy features stone art by internationally renowned sculptors working with local stone. Brottet amfi offers another perspective on stone: the amphitheatre was built in an old quarry on Spjærøy and has space for around 500 spectators. Hvaler’s medieval church is also one of Norway’s oldest churches.

The Coastal Museum is in Dypedal on Spjærøy and is dedicated to Hvaler’s coastal culture. Agriculture, fishing, piloting, shipping and other maritime occupations have shaped this culture. Museum access is seasonal; check the latest visitor information before your visit. Together with the stone art and medieval church, the museum offers a look at a range of cultural themes: working with stone, life on the coast and the area’s older history.

Ferry Connections to the Eastern Islands

The Hvaler ferry departs from Skjærhalden and takes passengers to the eastern islands. It calls at Herføl, Søndre Sandøy and Nordre Sandøy. If your trip includes a ferry crossing, check the latest timetable in advance: routes and booking conditions may change.

Discover more destinations: Skjærhalden, Vesterøy, Nedgården.

Go to the main travel overview: Hvaler.