Vestskauen

Vestskauen is a large woodland area west of Sande in Holmestrand Municipality. It offers marked walking trails, forest roads and several lakes where you can stop for a break or enjoy a swim in summer. When snow conditions allow, parts of the forest are used for cross-country skiing. With several trailheads and route options, you can choose a short outing or a longer day outdoors.

Woodland walks and forest trails
Vestskauen has marked paths through the forest and across wooded hills, as well as broader forest roads. There are several destinations and opportunities to combine trails for longer walks. Surfaces range from gravel tracks to natural paths with roots, stones and occasionally wet ground. Bring a picnic and use a walking map to select a suitable route. For longer hikes, plan your starting point and return journey in advance.

Swimming in woodland lakes
In summer, combine your walk with a swim in one of Vestskauen's lakes.
Myrvannet, Åsdammen, Kalmo and Øyvannet are among the lakes used for swimming. Find a place beside the water and enjoy a break from the trails. Late summer is also a good time to look for wild blueberries. Bring a small container if you would like to pick some.

Bergstigen – the historic route to Eidsfoss
Several trails through Vestskauen lead towards Eidsfoss. One of them is Bergstigen, an old route associated with the ironworks. The route connects the woodland with the industrial heritage of the village beside Lake Eikeren. Use an up-to-date map and arrange your return journey if you plan a point-to-point hike. At Eidsfoss, you can explore preserved workers' houses, a heritage trail and historic buildings. Visit Eidsfoss Ironworks to discover more of the area's industrial history.

Cross-country skiing in winter
Vestskauen is also a popular area for winter recreation. When there is enough snow, cross-country ski tracks are prepared through parts of the forest. Choose a shorter ski outing or explore further into the woodland. Grooming and snow conditions vary throughout the winter.
Check the latest trail conditions before setting out, and respect prepared ski tracks.

Getting to Vestskauen
There are several ways into the area, including Kalmoveien from Sande and access from the Fjellskard area. Forest roads lead towards parking areas within the woodland. Some access roads charge a toll, while winter access may be restricted. Choose your trailhead according to the route you want to explore and check parking, toll arrangements and road conditions before travelling. Vestskauen offers outdoor activities throughout the year, depending on weather and ground conditions. The entire trail network has not been verified as accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs. For more woodland walks in the area, explore Skibergfjell and Vestfjellet or discover more activities in Holmestrand.