Stavern: Coastal Paths, Art and Naval History

Stavern brings these themes together with places to visit, from a long coastal path to galleries and a national memorial.

Coastal paths around Stavern

The Kyststien is a 35-kilometre coastal path through cultural and natural landscapes. It passes through several places along the Brunlanes coast before reaching Stavern; from Stavern’s centre, you can access the path directly. Large sections of the stretch between Rakke and Stavern are accessible or designed according to universal design principles.

The Fjordstien takes a different route: it runs from Stavern along the west side of the Larvik Fjord to the town of Larvik. This gives you two different routes to choose from: the Kyststien runs along the Brunlanes coast to Stavern, while the Fjordstien connects Stavern with Larvik along the fjord.

Rakke is outside Stavern. At the Larvikite compass, you can turn the hollow arrow made of acid-resistant steel to identify destinations visible in different directions. The viewpoint at the compass offers a 180-degree view of the sea. This combines finding your bearings on site with a panoramic view of the coast.

Art and maritime history

Fredriksvern Verft was Norway’s first main naval base; construction began in 1750. Guides from Visit Stavern can lead tours there. If a tour is important to your plans, check in advance whether one is available on your travel dates.

In Sjøparken, Kunst i Sjøparken comprises 17 studios and galleries featuring local artists, including those working in painting, photography and ceramics. Stavern Kunstgalleri showcases art and handicrafts by more than 100 artists across a range of genres and styles. The two places offer different ways to experience art: the studios and galleries feature the art forms mentioned, while the gallery offers a broad selection of artists and styles.

Sjømennenes Minnehall in Stavern is the national memorial to sailors who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars. The Nerdrum Museum has also opened in Sjøparken in Stavern. Outside Stavern, you’ll find Stavern Fort, where the summer theatre is an activity for children and families. If you’re planning a trip to Stavern for this, check the performance dates for your travel period.

More destinations in the wider destination of Larvik

In the wider destination of Larvik, Bøkeskogen has its own focus on landscape and history. The area is a protected landscape and part of the Gea Norvegica Geopark. It belongs to the large Ra moraine, formed at the end of the last ice age; more than 60 burial mounds remain there. Blue-marked circular trails of 2, 6 and 10 kilometres offer three clearly distinct distances.

Kaupang is also in the wider destination of Larvik. It was founded around the year 800 as a centre for trade and production. The exhibitions offer insights into the work of archaeologists, the finds and current knowledge of the site’s history. Together, these destinations complement Stavern’s coastal paths and cultural attractions with further landscape and history themes across the destination of Larvik.

Discover more destinations: Tjodalyng, Larvik, Nevlunghamn, Helgeroa, Kvelde.

Go to the wider travel guide: Larvik.