Holiday at the South Coast

Gently rounded rocks, red wooden houses and white sandy beaches set the scene. Off the southern coast of Norway, small islands lie like pearls on a string. A summer holiday on the South Coast is the very definition of family fun in idyllic surroundings.

Book your stay at the South Coast

Things to do

From dramatic coastal views and historic landmarks to family adventures, hidden rock pools and scenic waterways – the South Coast offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveller. Whether you seek nature, culture or pure fun.

  • Lindesnes fyr i Norge.

    View of the Skagerrak and Lindesnes lighthouse

    At the southernmost tip of Norway, the Lindesnes lighthouse towers above the barren rocky landscape. From the whitewashed lighthouse with the red lantern you have a clear view of the Skagerrak. The lighthouse's closest neighbor are the remains of an old German fortress from World War II. Enter the bunker and feel the history up close.

  • Jettegrytene i Nissedal. Foto: Terje Rakke.

    Water fun in the rocky hollows

    Large, softly rounded hollows in the rocks are a natural paradise for playful water rats. In the "Jättegryderne" the water is collected in small solar-heated mini pools. Jump from hole to hole or slide along the small channels.

  • Indgangen til Kardemomme by i Dyreparken i Kristiansand

    Dyreparken i Kristiansand

    Visit Norway's largest amusement park with the whole family, just 10 minutes' drive from the city of Kristiansand. Here you can see all sorts of exciting animals from tigers to orangutans, try out one of the many rides, experience the real "Kardemomme By" or meet climbing mice and the other animals in "Hakkebakkeskogen."

    The pirate village Abra Havn is directly adjacent to Dyreparken in Kristiansand. Abra Havn is an adventure city full of excitement and entertainment.

  • Sjøsanden i Mandal, fotograferad av Selinn Andersen.

    Beach vacation

    You can always find a peaceful bay among the hundreds of small islands and islets on Norway's southern coast. The rounded rocks invite you to warmly sunbathe while the clear water gently ripples to the shore. One of Norway's most beautiful beach, Sjøsanden, invites you to play beach volleyball or take a refreshing swim.

  • telemarkskanalen6Foto-Kåre-S.-Pedersen.jpg

    The Telemark Canal

    The Telemark Canal stretches from the coast to the high mountains, passing through landscapes of striking contrasts and unique character. This adventurous waterway winds through narrow rivers, mirror-like lakes and centuries of living history. From coastal idylls, via rolling fruit-growing landscapes in Mid-Telemark, to the high mountains and the mighty Hardangervidda. Eight spectacular lock systems with a total of 18 chambers lift boats and passengers 72 metres – from the starting point in Skien to the end of the canal in Dalen.

  • Events and arrangements

    The South Coast offers events all year round. Use the region's most complete calendar
    and find festivals, concerts, exhibitions and much more!

    See the event calendar

Accommodations at the South Coast

Our recommended places to stay at the South Coast. The ferry crossing is included in the price.

  • Grand Hotel Åsgårdstrand

    Located in idyllic Åsgårdstrand, close to the marina and with panoramic views of the Oslofjord. You will stay in a historic ambience in one of the 78 charming rooms (including 2 disabled-accessible rooms). The hotel also has rooms for guests, who suffer from allergies. All rooms are non-smoking.

  • Tregde Feriesenter

    Beautiful cabins and apartments 7 minutes from Mandal and 40 minutes from the ferry port in Kristiansand. Stay in one of the apartments right on the quay. Shops, restaurant and pool with sea water around the corner. Or enjoy the quieter surroundings and fantastic sea views offered by other apartments and cabins.

  • Clarion Hotel Ernst

    At the Clarion Hotel® Ernst, history meets the present. The hotel is located in the center of Kristiansand, where the city's traditional architecture blends with exciting contemporary art and international design. The hotel has a restaurant and cocktail lounge on-site. The rooms are equipped with a double bed and a sofa bed or a cot for the little ones. Minibar, sofa and TV.