Author: Line Ornell

The Viking Heartland of Norway

Welcome to Vestfold – the heart of the Viking era in Norway. Just an hour south of Oslo, this compact region blends Viking history, seaside towns, art and Nordic flavours seamlessly.

In other words – a perfect destination for viking enthusiasts.

This isn’t about horned helmets and tourist traps, but about authentic encounters with Norse heritage, complemented by contemporary culture, coastal adventures and Nordic luxury.

After all, Vestfold is where some of the most important discoveries in Viking history were made and you can explore some of them up close👇

Coastal Beauty Unchanged Since Viking Times

Island Escapes

The Vestfold archipelago remains hauntingly beautiful. These same islands that sheltered Viking longships now welcome modern explorers.

Go island hopping on ferries or taxi boats. Pack a picnic. Find a smooth rock for swimming. Explore hidden coves. The landscape feels untouched by time.

For something special, book a guided kayak tour. Local guides know the coastline like the back of their hand, and will ensure everything from safety and equipment to local stories and legends.

🚣‍♂️ Want to feel like a proper Viking?
Check out Saga Oseberg in Tønsberg city center, and book a session to row it on the fjord!

⚓ Did you know? The Viking ship “Saga Farmann” built in Tønsberg by the Oseberg Viking Heritage Foundation is currently sailing the waters of Europe with a crew from a volunteer ship guild.

Verdens Ende: The World’s End

Vikings believed the world ended at Tjøme’s dramatic coastline. Today, Verdens Ende (The World’s End) offers spectacular views, a famous lighthouse and restaurants serving seafood caught hours earlier.

During high season it might feel a little touristy, but its well worth it. The dramatic rocks, crashing waves, and endless horizon explain why Vikings chose such a poetic name.

Explore Seaside Towns

Beyond the islands, Vestfold’s coastal towns each offer their own charm.

Stavern is a lively summer hub with art, galleries and golden beaches, while Nevlunghavn keeps its small fishing village feel with white wooden houses and a slower pace.

Åsgårdstrand is a quiet village best known for inspiring Edvard Munch, and Sandefjord blends Viking history with harbourside dining

Out in the archipelago, Færder’s islands of Tjøme and Nøtterøy are favourites for summer escapes, and nearby Veierland is a car-free island paradise best explored by bike.

Finally, Tønsberg, Norway’s oldest town, mixes buzzing waterfront life with deep Viking roots.

Don’t miss these activities👇

Feast Like You Mean It

Taste the Landscape

Food is at the heart of the Vestfold experience. From seafood straight out of the fjord to farm-fresh cider and traditional dishes, food in Vestfold is rooted in local products which is reflected in the regions eateries.

Where Chefs Make Magic

Michelin-starred chef Geir Skeie works his magic at Brygga 11 in Sandefjord, transforming fresh catches into culinary art.

In Larvik, Sjøslag serves harbourfront dining at its finest – think just-caught seafood with salty breezes included along with one of Norways finest wine lists.

For true fine dining, Pileredet at the idyllic Engø Gård on the island of Tjøme elevates seasonal Nordic ingredients in a centuries-old farm setting.

Meanwhile, Taket Skybar at the top of Hotel Klubben crowns Tønsberg with modern Nordic bites and panoramic rooftop views that steal the show.

The ultimate magic happens at World’s End Spiseriet on the edge of Tjøme. Here, exceptional cuisine meets infinite horizons – dining doesn’t get more dramatic than this.

🧺 Do as the locals do: If you prefer to explore local flavours at your own pace, don’t miss the region’s farm shops. Pick up fresh apple cider, homemade cheese or traditional pastries.

Hotels & Charming Hideaways

Where to Rest Your Viking Bones

Vestfold’s accommodation scene matches its Viking heritage – impressive, varied, and surprisingly sophisticated. Four properties perfectly capture the region’s range.

Farris Bad stands as Norway’s premier spa destination. This architectural marvel combines thermal pools, world-class treatments, and fjord views that haven’t changed since Viking times.

Insider tip: Book a sea-facing room and one of their signature spa treatments – pure Nordic bliss.

Hotel Klubben brings contemporary cool to Tønsberg’s waterfront. The rooftop skybar has become the town’s social hub, while art-filled corridors and designer rooms attract style-conscious travellers.

Location? You’re steps from museums, shops and the harbour.

Engø Gård on Tjøme offers something completely different – an old farm transformed into intimate luxury.

Their acclaimed restaurant showcases estate-grown produce, while rooms blend historic charm with modern comfort. It’s where countryside meets coastline in perfect harmony.

Quality Hotel Tønsberg proves great value doesn’t mean compromise. Their rooftop pool club features a heated pool and sauna with panoramic fjord views.

Add the waterfront location and generous breakfast spread and you understand why savvy travellers book here for Viking adventures by day, rooftop relaxation by night.

For Something Different

For unique stays, consider lighthouse accommodation at Fulehuk or Tvistein, treetop cabins at Tretopphytter Oslofjord and Visit Laagen or the coastal charm of old school bathing hotel Nevlunghavn Gjestgiveri.

Vestfold – An Accessible Destination

Vestfold is small, well-connected, and easy to explore, wheter you’re here for a week or a weekend.

TORP Sandefjord Airport (TRF) is the closest airport to Vestfold, with direct flights from several European cities, including Ryanair routes.

If you’re coming from further away, there are great connections through Copenhagen which brings you quickly into Southern Norway.

From the airport, trains and buses make it simple to reach towns like Tønsberg, Sandefjord, Larvik, Horten and Holmestrand.

With short travel times and easy transfers, you can explore the entire region without needing a car.

Fun fact: Every August, the Viking burial grounds at Borre transform into Midgardsblot – a unique heavy metal and viking festival.

Ready to write your own saga? Torp Airport is waiting. The Vikings are calling. All you need to do is answer.