Go island hopping along the Telemark coast

You don’t need your own boat or lots of planning to experience the magic of the Telemark archipelago. Island hopping is an easy and affordable way to explore the coast, with plenty to discover along the way.

Between Brevik, Stathelle and Langesund, an archipelago of islands is waiting to be explored by ferry, water taxi or local boat service. With short distances between the islands and something different to experience at every stop, it’s easy to create your own island-hopping adventure.

A holiday for everyone

Island hopping in Telemark is ideal for families. There are no long drives or complicated logistics – simply hop aboard the ferry and enjoy the journey. The experience begins as soon as you set off, with fresh sea air, the sound of seagulls and views across the islands and rocky islets.

Once you arrive, you can set your own pace. Spend the day exploring one island, or stay for a few nights and discover more. With options ranging from camping and cabins to simple places to stay, it’s easy to plan a trip that suits both your budget and the level of comfort you’re looking for.

And the best part? No two islands are the same.

From the "ice cream town" to an island paradise

Brevik is a great place to start – a charming small town known locally as the “ice cream town”. From here, boats head out into the archipelago, and within minutes you’ll find yourself surrounded by a coastal landscape that feels far removed from everyday life.

The islands of Breviksfjorden – including Bjørkøya, Sandøya, Risøya, Langøya and the Arøy islands – offer everything from sheltered coves and smooth coastal rocks to traditional landscapes and traces of local history. Some have quiet roads and trails that are perfect for exploring by bike, while others invite you to swim, fish or simply explore on foot.

If you’d like an introduction to the area before setting off on your own, a sightseeing cruise aboard M/S Dikkon is a great way to get your bearings and learn more about the archipelago. See the islands from the water while a guide shares local stories and insights along the way.

Islands not to miss

Among the many islands along the Telemark coast, there are a few highlights well worth adding to your itinerary.

Lille Arøya, at the outer edge of Langesundsfjorden, is a small island with plenty to discover. A short trail connects the ferry stops, passing swimming spots and viewpoints along the way. From the island’s highest point, Kollen, you can enjoy panoramic views across the archipelago and discover traces of the island’s past in the form of ancient burial cairns.

Langøya, just off Langesund, offers a very different experience. Flat and open, with grazing cattle and a distinctly southern Norwegian coastal feel, the island is a protected landscape area. Here, you can discover rare plants, fossils from a seabed dating back 450 million years and a coastal trail winding through a distinctive cultural landscape.

At the northern end of the island, shallow sandy beaches and large grassy areas make an ideal setting for families. Head all the way south and you’ll reach Langøytangen Lighthouse, where you can even spend the night in the former lighthouse keeper’s house. It’s hard to get much closer to the sea than this.

Discover more coastal gems

If you’d like to extend your trip, some of Telemark’s best-known archipelago experiences are within easy reach.

Kragerø, often described as the jewel of the Telemark coast, is surrounded by an archipelago that is perfect for exploring by bike. Combine island hopping with a bike ride on Skåtøy before continuing to Jomfruland, known for its pebble beaches, oak forests and iconic tower overlooking the Skagerrak.

Stop for lunch at a coastal café, visit a local farm shop or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings before catching the boat to your next destination.

Simple, authentic and unforgettable

sland hopping in Telemark isn’t about luxury or big attractions. It’s about enjoying the simple things: a ferry ride in the evening sun, a swim from sun-warmed rocks, a bike ride along quiet gravel roads and the feeling of having no rush.

Perhaps that’s why so many people return. Once you’ve experienced island hopping along the Telemark coast, it’s easy to see why the simplest moments can make the best summer memories.