Sandefjord, Norway, is a vibrant coastal city and municipality in Vestfold county, located approximately 110 kilometers southwest of Oslo along the western shore of the Oslofjord. Known for its rich Viking heritage, prosperous whaling history, and stunning 146-kilometer coastline, Sandefjord blends historical significance with modern charm, making it a popular destination for Norwegians and international visitors alike.
Sandefjord is situated at the head of the Sandefjordsfjorden, an
inlet of the Skagerrak, with a total area of 422 square kilometers,
making it the largest municipality in Vestfold by population (65,574 as
of recent data) and the second largest by area. The city is flanked by
two peninsulas, Østerøya ("East Island") and Vesterøya ("West Island"),
which contribute to its extensive 146-kilometer coastline, featuring
sandy beaches, sheltered coves, and smooth rocky shores. The
Sandefjordsfjorden and Mefjorden, formed by these peninsulas, enhance
the area’s scenic beauty, while inland forests and rolling hills provide
ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
The climate is mild
compared to other parts of Norway, influenced by its coastal location.
Summers are warm, with average highs of 19°C (66°F) in July, ideal for
beach activities, while winters are cool, with lows around -1°C (30°F)
in February. Sandefjord enjoys approximately 2,721 hours of sunshine
annually, with May to July being the sunniest months. Rainfall is
moderate, peaking in October (120 mm) and lowest in April (61 mm). Sea
temperatures range from 3°C (38°F) in February to 18°C (65°F) in August,
suitable for swimming in summer.
Sandefjord’s history spans thousands of years, shaped by its
strategic coastal location. Archaeological evidence suggests human
habitation for at least 3,000 years, with rock carvings at Haugen Farm
dating to 1,500–500 BCE. The Viking Age (circa 800–1000 CE) left a
significant mark, most notably with the discovery of the Gokstad Ship in
1880, a well-preserved 9th-century Viking vessel unearthed at Gokstad
Mound, now displayed at the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo. The nearby
Oseberg Ship, also from the 9th century, was found in the region,
underscoring Sandefjord’s importance as a Viking hub.
The city’s
modern history began to take shape in the 14th century, with Sandefjord
officially established as a market town in 1845. From the late 19th to
early 20th century, it became a global whaling powerhouse, earning the
title of Norway’s “whaling capital” and, at one point, the richest city
in the country. Between 1875 and 1900, disposable incomes rose by over
200%, and from 1913 to 1917, median incomes surged by over 350%, driven
by whaling and related industries.
During World War II,
Sandefjord was occupied by Nazi forces, who commandeered the Sandefjord
Spa and built fortresses in the area. Post-war, the city transitioned to
a modern economy, with industries like shipping, chemicals, and IT
taking prominence. Municipal mergers in 1968 (with Sandar) and 2017
(with Andebu and Stokke) expanded Sandefjord’s boundaries, enhancing its
regional influence.
Sandefjord’s economy has evolved from its whaling and shipping roots
to a diversified hub for industry, tourism, and transportation. Key
economic drivers include:
Industry: Jotun, a global leader in
paints and coatings, is Sandefjord’s largest employer, founded in 1926.
Other sectors include IT, chemical production, shipbuilding, and
fishing. The city hosts the third-largest merchant fleet in Norway,
reflecting its maritime legacy.
Tourism: Sandefjord’s beaches, Viking
heritage, and cultural attractions draw significant visitors,
particularly in summer, earning it the nickname “Summer City” or
“Bathing City” (Badebyen).
Transportation: Sandefjord is a major
transport hub, home to Torp Sandefjord Airport, one of Norway’s largest,
serving budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air with connections to
European cities such as Amsterdam, London, and Prague. Daily Color Line
ferries connect Sandefjord to Strömstad, Sweden, and the European Route
E18 highway and Vestfoldbanen railway (Oslo–Skien line) provide
excellent connectivity.
The city’s wealth is evident in its high
property values, with Sandefjord boasting Norway’s most expensive
seaside vacation homes.
Sandefjord’s cultural offerings are deeply rooted in its Viking,
whaling, and maritime heritage, complemented by modern art and
architecture.
Viking Heritage
Gokstad Mound: This large
burial mound at Gokstad Farm is where the Gokstad Ship was
excavated, offering a glimpse into 9th-century Viking life. Visitors
can explore the site and learn about its significance. A functional
replica, the “Gaia,” is occasionally docked at Sandefjord’s harbor.
Høyjord Stave Church: Located 15 kilometers from the city center,
this is Vestfold’s only surviving stave church and Norway’s
southernmost, dating to the 12th century. Its medieval architecture
and serene setting make it a must-visit.
Istrehågan Rock
Carvings: These Bronze Age petroglyphs at Haugen Farm, depicting
ships and figures, are among Vestfold’s largest archaeological
sites.
Whaling History
Whaling Museum (Hvalfangstmuseet):
Europe’s only museum dedicated to whaling, located in Sandefjord, it
features detailed exhibits on Norway’s whaling industry, including
artifacts, a full-sized whale skeleton, and mounted Norwegian
animals. The museum provides an in-depth, sometimes graphic, look at
whaling practices, making it a compelling stop for history
enthusiasts.
Southern Actor: A restored whaling ship docked at
Sandefjord’s harbor, open for tours during summer months, offering a
tangible connection to the city’s maritime past.
Whaling
Monument: A 1960 sculpture in the harbor depicting whalers in
action, it’s one of Sandefjord’s most iconic landmarks.
Art
and Architecture
Midtåsen Sculpture Park: This outdoor park
showcases marble and bronze works by Norwegian sculptor Knut Steen,
set against scenic views.
Gallery M and Gallery ER: These art
galleries in central Sandefjord feature contemporary and modern
works, with Gallery M showcasing colorful paintings by Marit Bergem
and Gallery ER hosting monthly exhibitions.
Sandefjord Church: A
striking example of Art Nouveau architecture, this church is a
cultural landmark, though it’s often closed outside listed hours.
Sandefjord’s diverse landscape supports a wide range of activities,
particularly centered around its coastline and natural surroundings.
Beaches and Water Activities
With 146 kilometers of coastline,
Sandefjord is renowned for its beaches, earning the nickname “Bathing
City.” Popular spots include:
Strømbadet: A modern town beach
with a floating jetty, opened in 2020, located near Scandic Park Hotel.
Water quality may be affected by heavy rain, so check for warnings.
Vøra (Vesterøya): A child-friendly sandy beach with camping, volleyball
courts, and facilities open from May to September.
Flautangen
(Østerøya): Offers sandy and pebble beaches, rocks, toilets, and fishing
spots, ideal for a quieter retreat.
Asnes (Vesterøya): Features small
south-facing beaches, cliffs, and camping facilities, accessible by bus.
Goksjø: A freshwater lake 7 kilometers from the center, with a swimming
jetty and grassy slopes, perfect for families. Many beaches, such as
Granholmen and Lahelle, are adapted for accessibility, catering to
persons with disabilities.
Swimming, kayaking, and stand-up
paddleboarding are popular, with sea temperatures reaching 18°C in
August. Fishing is also excellent, particularly at Flautangen and
Granholmen.
Vesterøya and Østerøya Trails: These peninsulas offer scenic coastal
paths, such as the trail to Folehavna on Vesterøya, with opportunities
to sunbathe on warm rocks or swim.
Grubesand Coastal Path: A quiet,
east-facing beach with hiking trails along the coast, ideal for nature
lovers.
Naturkartan: A local nature guide highlights trails and
outdoor activities, accessible via app or website.
Other
Activities
Sandefjord Svømmehall: An indoor swimming facility for
year-round water activities.
Dakota Norway: Norway’s oldest airworthy
passenger plane, based at Torp Airport, offers private scenic flights
over the region.
Campervan Adventures: Renting a campervan is popular
for exploring Sandefjord’s coastline and nearby towns at your own pace.
Sandefjord’s culinary scene reflects its coastal location and
Norwegian traditions, with a focus on fresh seafood and local
ingredients.
Solvold: One of Norway’s top gourmet restaurants
outside Oslo, located near the harbor, it offers innovative dishes using
local produce.
Bakgården Café: Housed in a charming wooden building,
this café serves excellent sandwiches and ice cream.
Fishmonger at
the Harbor: Renowned for high-quality seafood and delicacies, it’s a
must-visit for fresh catches.
Hvaltorvet Shopping Centre: Features
dining options like sandwich shops and cafés, catering to varied tastes.
Local specialties include rakfisk (fermented fish), fresh cod, and
cloudberry desserts, often found at markets or festivals.
Sandefjord hosts several events celebrating its heritage and
community:
Viking Festivals: Periodic events at the harbor
feature the “Gaia” Viking ship replica and reenactments, celebrating the
region’s Viking roots.
Summer Markets: Weekly markets in the town
square (Torget) offer local crafts, food, and live music, drawing crowds
in July and August.
Cultural Exhibitions: The Whaling Museum and
local galleries host seasonal exhibits, often tied to maritime or art
themes.
By Air: Torp Sandefjord Airport, 10 kilometers from the city center,
offers budget flights to major European cities. A free shuttle connects
the airport to Torp train station, with hourly trains to Sandefjord.
By Car: The E18 highway, a major north–south route, runs through
Sandefjord, making the 121-kilometer drive from Oslo scenic and
straightforward. Parking is ample near the ferry terminal and city
center.
By Train: Sandefjord Station, on the Vestfoldbanen line,
connects to Oslo and Skien, with self-service luggage lockers available.
By Ferry: Color Line operates five daily ferries to Strömstad, Sweden,
from Sandefjord’s harbor.
Local Transport: Downtown Sandefjord is
walkable, with a robust bus network (Vestfold Kollektivtrafikk) serving
the municipality. Buses connect to beaches and rural areas, though a car
is recommended for exploring remote spots.
Sandefjord is a stronghold for the Conservative Party, with over 70% of votes in the 2011 election going to the Conservative coalition. Bjørn Ole Gleditsch, a Conservative, has been mayor since 2004. The city’s affluent status and business-friendly policies contribute to its economic stability.
Environmental Concerns: Sandefjord balances tourism with
environmental preservation, particularly around its beaches, where heavy
rain can affect water quality at sites like Strømbadet.
Sustainable
Tourism: The city is promoting eco-friendly travel, such as campervan
rentals and public transport, to reduce its carbon footprint.
Cultural Preservation: Efforts are underway to maintain historical sites
like Gokstad Mound and Høyjord Stave Church amid growing visitor
numbers.
Sandefjord offers a unique blend of historical depth, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Its Viking and whaling legacies, embodied in the Gokstad Ship and Whaling Museum, provide a window into Norway’s past, while its beaches and outdoor activities cater to relaxation and adventure. The city’s accessibility, vibrant dining scene, and summer vibrancy make it an ideal destination for families, history buffs, and nature lovers.