The Ultimate Southern Norway Road Trip:

If you’re looking for deep fjords and towering mountains, I’d recommend heading to Western Norway or the North. But if you want stunning coastal landscapes, charming wooden towns, and unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else in Norway—or even the world—then Southern Norway is the place to be. You can easily do this road trip in a week, and trust me, it’ll be one for the books!

Stop 1: Arendal

A perfect start to your journey! Arendal is a cozy little town with plenty to explore.

• Sandaabadstue – If you’re driving from Oslo, make a stop at Sandaabadstue for a relaxing sauna session. It’s also accessible from Arendal.

• Explore the old wooden houses in the old town – A charming walk through history.

• Glassheisen – Get a panoramic view of the town from this glass elevator. (the photo you see above is from the Glassheisen lookout point)

• Arendal Street Food – A must-visit spot for diverse and delicious foods. (was closed when I was there, but I have heard great things.

• Dining by the waterfront – Nothing beats enjoying a meal with a view of the harbor.

• Explore the old bunkers – A hidden piece of history waiting to be discovered.

Stay: Raet Camping

• Raet National Park is unique—98% of it is underwater! Perfect for snorkeling, diving, or just exploring the coastal landscape.

Stop 2: Kristiansand (2 Days)

Pssst. As you drive from Arendal to Kristiansand, you can stop at Over Agder, the world’s tallest freestanding climbing park!

Grimstad is also a charming coastal town to stop by while driving from Arendal to Kristiansand.

• Kristiansand Cannon Museum – Explore the worlds second largest cannons and some of the biggest cannons buildt during WWII. If you ask the guide might even turn the cannon on for you. (It still works)

• Aquarama – A massive waterpark and wellness center right by the beach.

• Scandic Bystranda – A perfect place to stay, right by the sea.

• GoNorway Speed Sightseeing – Hop on a speedboat and explore the coastline at high speed! Slow through the beautiful areas with intresting storytelling from the guide and fast through the not so exiting arias. One of my favorite RIB experiences.

• Try Norway’s best fish at Reinhartsen – Seafood doesn’t get fresher than this. This place has won more awards than you can count on your hands and the surrounding area is as cozy as it gets.

• Kunstsiloen – A modern art museum in a repurposed grain silo. If you enjoy good arcitecture you will love this place! Psst: check out the rooftop bar with a view over the city and coast.

Stop 3: Mandal

Stay at Mandal Hotel, markedet as Norway’s southernmost hotel.

• Enjoy a sauna session with ocean views.

• Try their incredible food—local and seasonal dishes at their best.

• Furulunden. I have not been here, but I have heard that, just 1km from the city, Furulunden has peaceful trails for biking, jogging, and walking. The paths lead to sandy beaches and quiet coves, some shallow and great for kids, others with platforms to swim out to.

Stop 4: Lindesnes

• Paddle through the Spangereid Canal – A peaceful and scenic way to explore the area.

• Visit Under – Europes first underwater restaurant and a dining experience unlike any other in the world! A bit expensive but the food is AMAZING! (You will probably have to book pretty far in advance.)

  

• Lindesnes Lighthouse – Stay overnight at Norway’s southernmost point for an unforgettable experience. This place is magical and the sunsets are unreal!

Stop 5: Flekkefjord

• Try rail biking (Dresin cycling) – A fun and unique way to explore the old railway tracks. (This is pretty heavy even with the e-bikes)

• Visit Utsyn, Hidra – A hidden gem of an island with incredible views and history.

• Stay at Utsyn - A spectacular stay with breathtaking ocean views at Utsyn, Hidra. The unique shelter design connects you with nature, while small openings create shifting light patterns. Stay overnight on provided mattresses, in a hammock, or with rented bedding. There’s no water or electricity, but a toilet is 200m away.

• Stay at Flekkefjord hotel: If you want a bit more luxury you can also drive back and stay at Flekkefjord hotel.

Stop 6: Evje

Stay at Troll Camping and get ready for an adrenaline rush!

• Troll aktiv Rafting – This is not the wildes rafting experience in Norway, but it hase some pretty fun white-water parts and great as an introduction to rafting.

  • If you are looking for some WILD rafting you should check out Sjoa or Voss. These are considered some of the best in the world. These can be pretty intense:))

• Overnight stay in nature – A perfect way to end an adventure-filled day.

Stop 7: Juvet Bungee

End your trip with a bang by taking a leap at Juvet Bungee—because what’s a road trip without a bit of adrenaline? This bungee jump is super cool as you bungee down a massive waterfall.

This Southern Norway road trip is in my opinion a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and unique experiences. Whether you’re soaking in a sauna, dining underwater, or rafting through wild rivers, this is a trip you’ll never forget! Enjoy!