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    Holmestrand

    Coastal Trails in Holmestrand

    Explore Holmestrand’s coastal trails, from former railway tracks to steep hikes and fjord views.

    The coastal trails in Holmestrand offer walks along the Oslofjord, through woodland and past beaches, marinas and viewpoints. Choose a gentler route along the former railway line between Holmestrand and Sande, or more challenging woodland trails heading south towards Horten. There are also coastal walking routes between Berger and Sande. Distances and difficulty vary considerably. Choose a section that suits your experience and check the individual route before setting out.

    Along the former railway line towards Sande
    North of Holmestrand town centre, the coastal trail follows sections of the former Vestfold railway line beside the fjord. Much of this route is broad and relatively easy to walk, with sea views along the way. Approximately 1.6 kilometres north of Holmestrand, Tvillingbru has a designated rest area with benches and a play area. Further north, there are several opportunities to stop beside the water. The walk between Sande and Holmestrand is approximately 13 kilometres long. Much of it is suitable for cycling and pushchairs, although some connecting sections are steeper or have uneven surfaces.

    Explore the Sande–Holmestrand coastal trail for more detailed route information.

    From Holmestrand towards Mulvika and Sandsletta
    South of Holmestrand town centre, the coastal path passes the harbour area and continues towards Hagemannsparken and Mulvika. The landscape gradually changes from established walking paths to narrower nature trails. South of Mulvika, the terrain becomes more demanding. The route continues past places including Ruseberget, Snekkestad and Sandsletta, combining woodland with sections close to the shoreline.
    Sandsletta has a beach and places to stop and enjoy the fjord views.

    Views from Frebergkastet and Slettefjell
    For experienced hikers, the coastal trail continues south towards Frebergkastet and Slettefjell.
    Frebergkastet has a designated rest area overlooking the wooded coastline. Further south, near Frebergsvik and Slettefjell, the paths become steep and rocky. Some sections have support ropes, while others involve scrambling. Slettefjell has exposed cliff edges. This section requires confidence on uneven ground and should be avoided in slippery conditions. The route from central Holmestrand to Falkensten in Horten is approximately 16 kilometres long. Starting from Mulvika reduces the distance to around 11.5 kilometres. See the Holmestrand–Horten coastal trail for more information about this challenging hike.

    Coastal walks between Berger and Sande
    In the northern part of the municipality, the coastal trail between Berger and Sande passes through woodland, rocky shores and small beaches along Sandebukta bay. At Berger, you can combine your walk with a visit to Berger Museum and Fossekleiva Cultural Centre, where you can explore the area's textile industry heritage. The section towards Bjerkøya offers varied coastal scenery. However, further south towards Bekkestranda, part of the route follows a busy road without a separate pavement or cycle path. Check the Berger–Sande route description carefully before attempting the full distance.

    Choose the right trail for you
    The coastal trails offer both short outings and longer hikes, but surfaces vary considerably. Some sections use paved or gravel paths, while others include roots, rocks and steep woodland terrain. For visitors with pushchairs or bicycles, the former railway route between Holmestrand and Sande is a better starting point than the steep trails south of Mulvika. Walking conditions vary throughout the year. Check the weather, wear suitable footwear and respect the natural surroundings. For more routes across the region, explore Hiking and coastal trails in Vestfold.

     

    Plan your visit

    The coastal trails in Holmestrand include several walking routes between Berger, Sande, Holmestrand and Horten. Choose a specific section before planning your visit.

    Choose your route
    Sande–Holmestrand is approximately 13 km, largely following a former railway line. Holmestrand–Falkensten is around 16 km and includes challenging terrain near Frebergsvik and Slettefjell. Berger–Sande is listed as approximately 15 km, although its published sections add up to around 16 km. Check the map and distance for your chosen route.

    Starting points and transport
    Possible starting points include Sande railway station, central Holmestrand, Mulvika and Berger. Several routes are point-to-point walks. Check parking, public transport and return connections before travelling.

    Terrain and accessibility
    The former railway route between Holmestrand and Sande is mainly broad and relatively easy to walk. Trails south of Mulvika have steep, rocky sections with ropes and scrambling. Parts of Berger–Sande follow roads without a separate pavement or cycle path. The full network is not accessible for wheelchairs, pushchairs or bicycles.

    Good to know
    Trail conditions depend on weather and season. Rocks and steep sections may become slippery. Follow local signs and updated maps, respect farmland and take your litter home. Check current regulations before using any fire pit.

    View coastal trail information →

      Coastal Trails in Holmestrand - Visit Vestfold