Jomfruland National Park

Jomfruland National Park covers the islands of Jomfruland and Stråholmen off the Kragerø coast, established in 2016 to protect a rare stretch of flat coastal landscape — entirely unlike the rugged terrain of most Norwegian national parks. The main island, Jomfruland, is long and narrow, mostly covered in dense deciduous forest and open heath, with sandy beaches on both sides. A network of paths and cycling tracks crosses the island, and the walk from the lighthouse at the south end to the ferry pier takes about two hours.

The park is an important staging post for migratory birds on the North Sea flyway. In spring and autumn, large numbers of passerines, raptors, and waders pass through, and the island's bird observatory records thousands of sightings during peak migration periods. For a quiet Norwegian island with no cars, good beaches, and genuine birdwatching, it is hard to beat.

Ferries to Jomfruland operate from Kragerø Harbour during the summer season. The crossing takes about 30 minutes. There is no overnight accommodation on the island, but day trips are easily managed.

things to do sight wildlife hiking
A story
Jomfruland means "Virgin Island" — the name predates the park by centuries and refers to the island's flat, open character, which once made it an important orientation point for ships navigating the Kragerø archipelago. The lighthouse at its southern tip was built in 1839 and guided coastal traffic for over 150 years.