Hiking trails in Kodal and Andebu

Kodal and Andebu offer walking trails through woodland, beside lakes and up to viewpoints overlooking the Vestfold countryside. Around Heivannet and Svartåa, there are more than 100 kilometres of marked trails. Other destinations include Vetan, Tjuvborgen and Brånafjell, the highest point in Sandefjord Municipality. Choose a short local walk or spend a full day exploring the forest.

Woodland walks around Heivannet and Svartåa
In western Kodal, Heivannet and Svartåa are surrounded by woodland, streams and old routes through the forest. The area has an extensive network of blue-marked trails, including several options for circular walks. Heisetra is a useful starting point. From here, you can follow the nature trail around Heivannet or explore longer paths through the surrounding forest. The Svartåa cultural trail also passes places connected with the area's timber-floating history. Bring a picnic and enjoy a break near the water. Find more information under Hiking to Heisetra.

Trollsvann and Åletjønn
The woodland surrounding Trollsvann and Åletjønn offers walking opportunities of different lengths. At Trollsvann, an easy gravel road leads towards Trollsvannstua. A separate nature trail follows the other side of the lake, crossing more varied terrain. Walking maps and information boards are available around the trailheads, including the parking areas near Trollsvann and Merkedammen. In winter, parts of the area are also used for cross-country skiing when snow conditions allow.

Vetan – a lookout tower above Andebu
A nature and heritage trail leads from central Andebu towards Vetan. Information panels along the way introduce the surrounding landscape and local history. At the top, a lookout tower offers views across the region. On clear days, you may see the Oslofjord and Gaustatoppen mountain in Telemark. From Vetan, you can continue past the dam on the Kjæråselva River towards the remains of a historic hillfort at Ulspipa.

Tjuvborgen – a historic hillfort near Høyjord
South of Høyjord lies Tjuvborgen, an ancient hillfort set on a wooded hill. The marked path begins at Bøen, approximately three kilometres south of Høyjord Stave Church. The walk uphill takes around half an hour. Most of the trail is relatively easy, although the final climb to the hillfort is steep. At the top, enjoy the views and take a picnic break. Nearby, Høyjord Stave Church is Vestfold's only preserved stave church. Check visiting arrangements if you would like to go inside.

Brånafjell – the highest point in Sandefjord
At 399 metres above sea level, Brånafjell is the highest point in Sandefjord Municipality. Walking routes lead towards the summit from the Trollsvann and Merkedammen areas. The forest terrain varies, with different route choices along the way. Use an up-to-date trail map and follow the marked route for your chosen walk.

Shorter walks for families
You do not need a long hike to enjoy Kodal and Andebu. At Stivannet in Kodal, Beverstien is an accessible walking trail with benches, shelters and places to stop by the lake. From central Kodal, a marked trail of approximately 4.5 kilometres leads towards Kjempås and Stiåsen. The terrain is hilly, and at the summit you will find remains of a hillfort dating from around the fifth century. For seasonal walking routes, explore De grønne turene, a series of marked trails across Sandefjord Municipality.

Choose a walk that suits you
Trail conditions vary from relatively easy gravel tracks to narrow woodland paths with roots, stones and steep sections. Some walks are suitable for families with young children, while others require more experience on uneven ground. Check the individual route before deciding on distance, duration and accessibility. Forest trails can become muddy and slippery after rain. For more walking ideas and trailhead information, visit Sandefjord Municipality's hiking pages.