Bolærne

The Bolærne islands lie in the outer Oslofjord, off the coast of Nøtterøy. The archipelago consists of three main islands, Østre Bolæren, Mellom Bolæren and Vestre Bolæren, surrounded by around 40 smaller islands, islets and skerries. Come here for coastal walks, swimming spots, maritime history and traces of the islands' former military use. Most of the archipelago is part of Færder National Park. You can travel here by seasonal passenger boat from Husvik, by water taxi or with your own boat. Choose one island for a relaxed day trip or allow more time to explore several.

Østre Bolæren – harbour life and military history
Østre Bolæren has the widest range of visitor facilities, including a guest harbour, places to eat, accommodation and walking trails. Head up to the island's higher ground for views across the Oslofjord. Along the way, you can discover former gun positions and other remains from the years when the islands were used by the military. There are also small swimming coves and places to enjoy a picnic by the water. If you arrive by private boat, Østre Bolæren Guest Harbour is a convenient starting point.

Mellom Bolæren – woodland trails and cultural heritage
Mellom Bolæren is known for its mature deciduous woodland, varied plant life, former smallholdings and historic sites. The marked coastal trail across Mellom Bolæren runs between Jensundet and Kongshavnsundet. The route is approximately 1.5 kilometres long and passes woodland, old buildings and cultural remains. You can also see Grevestuen, a historic house associated with the Earls of Jarlsberg, and restored smallholdings around Jensesund. The island has a more sombre chapter of history from the Second World War. Remains of a camp for Soviet prisoners of war can still be found here. Please treat these historic sites with respect.

Vestre Bolæren – swimming and coastal life at Jensesund
Vestre Bolæren is home to Jensesund, a former coastal community with a guest harbour, places to eat and accommodation. Walk along the coastal trail, explore the historic surroundings or find a place to swim. Kalvenga, in the northern part of the island, has swimming areas and a designated camping area. The island offers a glimpse of life before the military era, when fishing, seafaring and small-scale farming were part of everyday life.
It is a good choice if you would like to combine a coastal walk with swimming and time beside the harbour.

A long history in the Oslofjord
People have used the Bolærne islands for thousands of years. Bronze Age burial cairns and other historic remains tell of life and travel across the islands long before they became a military area. Fishermen, pilots and seafarers lived here for generations. The Norwegian Armed Forces took over the islands in 1916, and much of the archipelago was closed to the public for decades. The military presence ended in 2004, when the islands became accessible to visitors again. Today, walking trails connect natural surroundings with buildings and places that reveal different chapters of the islands' history.

Swimming, walking and overnight stays
Bolærne is ideal for a day trip with a picnic, but you can also spend the night. Østre Bolæren offers accommodation, food services and a guest harbour. Vestre Bolæren has swimming spots and a historic harbour community, while Mellom Bolæren is a particularly good choice for woodland walks and cultural heritage. Different accommodation and camping options are available on the islands. Check booking conditions and local conservation rules before planning an overnight stay. See Accommodation on Bolærne for further information.

Getting to the islands
Flybåten operates a seasonal passenger boat service from Husvik, outside Tønsberg, to the Bolærne islands. Schedules vary throughout the year and services are weather-dependent. Always check the outward and return departures before travelling. You can also arrive by private boat or book a water taxi.

Help protect the islands
Most of the Bolærne archipelago lies within Færder National Park, with protected natural areas and historic remains. Follow established paths, avoid disturbing birds and wildlife, and leave burial cairns and other cultural sites untouched. Check local rules for camping, fires and access to protected areas. Please take your litter home so the islands remain enjoyable for future visitors.