Looking for an adventurous family vacation in Southern Norway? With its majestic fjords, rugged coastlines, and countless islands, this region is perfect for a road trip. Wild camping is allowed thanks to the ‘allemannsretten’ law, so pack your tent or rent a camper to explore the natural beauty at your own pace. We started our journey with a ferry from Hirtshals in Denmark to Kristiansand, combining family-friendly campsites with fun outdoor activities. Here are our best experiences and tips for an unforgettable holiday in Southern Norway.
The Journey to Kristiansand: Vacation Begins with a Ferry
Since the ferry from the Netherlands to Norway is no longer in service, we traveled via Hirtshals in Denmark. We took the fast ferry to Kristiansand so three hours later, we arrived in Norway, surrounded by its scenic landscape. Our first stop was Kristiansand Feriesenter, just a 15-minute drive from the harbor, where we could immediately settle into our campsite and relax.
Camping at Kristiansand Feriesenter: Family-Friendly and Scenic
The moment we arrived, our eldest daughter spotted a water slide, which she insisted on trying immediately. The slide uses water pumped from the fjord, giving it a salty twist, but that didn’t dampen the fun. While the kids played, we prepared dinner and explored the campground. A nature trail led us to a beach with a water trampoline, a perfect spot to unwind.
Kristiansand Feriesenter is ideal for families, offering a large playground, sports fields, and a kid-friendly beach. The campground is close to local attractions like Kristiansand Zoo, making it a great base for a family holiday. We recommend booking early, as it’s a popular choice during the summer
RIB Boat Safari: Speeding Through the Fjords
One of the highlights of our trip was the RIB boat safari. This inflatable, high-speed boat took us on an exhilarating ride through the fjord and around the many small islands of Kristiansand. The one-hour trip gave us a chance to experience the fjord at different speeds. While we took photos of the coastline at a slower pace, our daughters loved racing over the waves at full speed.
This thrilling experience was the family’s favorite, leaving a lasting impression. The safari is available for kids aged six and up through Go Norway—an absolute must for adventurous families!
Odderøya: A Blend of Nature and History
After the excitement of the RIB safari, we visited Odderøya, a nature reserve with historic landmarks. Originally a peninsula, Odderøya became an island in the 17th century when a canal was constructed. The area features hiking trails, lush forests, and remnants of military forts and quarantine stations. Our daughters spent the afternoon crab fishing, while we soaked up the breathtaking views of the fjord.
We also enjoyed a stop at the café located in the old engineer’s residence on the island’s southern tip. It was the perfect place to relax with a snack and enjoy the view of the Oksøy and Grønningen lighthouses.
Island Hopping on the Kristiansand Fjord
Another memorable part of our journey was island hopping on the Kristiansand Fjord. The fjord, which flows into the North Sea, is known for its picturesque islands and is popular for activities like sailing and fishing. We boarded the MS Bragdoya at the pier in Lumber, Vågsbygd, where parking is plentiful and free.
Stop 1: Bragdøya Island
Our first stop was Bragdøya, where we explored the island for an hour. This peaceful island is perfect for a camping trip—just bring a hammock or tent. Facilities like showers and toilets are available near the pier, making it easy to stay overnight. We wandered through the forest, played with swing ropes, and even encountered some grazing sheep, much to the kids' delight. The traditional boat houses along the coast gave us the quintessential Norwegian vibe.
Stop 2: Dvergsøya Island
Next, we visited Dvergsøya, where we opted to spend the afternoon. We began with a climb to a small café, enjoying fresh waffles with jam and ice cream. Although the island is small—only 0.27 square kilometers—it’s perfect for swimming, hiking, and picnicking. Dvergsøya is also known for its historic summer homes, including a stately villa previously rented by Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit.
The rest of the day was spent wading in the water, crab fishing, and building sandcastles. At 4 PM, the boat returned to bring us back to Lumber after a relaxing day on the islands.
Practical Tips for Your Trip to Kristiansand
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Ferry: Book your ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand with Fjordline.
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Island Hopping: Take the MS Bragdoya from Lumber pier in Vågsbygd for a day trip.
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Camping: Kristiansand Feriesenter is a top choice for families with young children.
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RIB Boat Safari: This adrenaline-filled activity is available through Go Norway.
For more family-friendly activities in Norway, check out our blog posts on seal spotting and our visit to Den Lille Dyrehage.
Conclusion: Discover Southern Norway at Your Family’s Pace
A family vacation in Southern Norway offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you prefer wild camping, island hopping, or high-speed RIB boat rides, this region has something for everyone. Traveling at a leisurely pace allows you to discover hidden gems and enjoy quality time together. Southern Norway is an ideal destination for an unforgettable summer holiday with kids!
