Looking for a family-friendly destination in Norway that offers peace, nature, and culture? Lillesand, a charming coastal town in the Sørlandet region, is the perfect choice! Known as the "white town" for its traditional wooden houses, it provides the ideal setting for an unforgettable vacation. From beautiful nature spots to fun activities, Lillesand offers a little something for everyone. With our two children, aged 4 and 8, we discovered the magic of this town. Here’s how to spend a family day in Lillesand!
Exploring the Streets of Lillesand
After a relaxing morning in Kristiansand, we made our way to Lillesand by car. Parking was easy, with a large, free parking lot located at the town’s edge—just perfect for families traveling with caravans. Location of the parking lot on Google Maps.
From the parking area, we enjoyed a leisurely walk to the town center. Along the way, the kids found a playground to burn off some energy. After that, we strolled past small boutiques, admired the boats in the harbor, and finally settled in for an early dinner at Strand Haven, a restaurant with excellent reviews.
Dining Early at Strand Haven
In Norway, dining early is quite normal, which worked perfectly for our hungry little ones. We started with a local aperitif on the waiter’s recommendation: a sweet pink gin and a slightly bitter white gin—both refreshing on a warm day. For the kids, we ordered a pizza to share, while we enjoyed oysters, sashimi, and mussels. To our surprise, even our picky eater wanted to try the mussels—and loved them!
The main course was a delight: I savored melt-in-the-mouth halibut, while my husband opted for a perfectly cooked steak. To top it off, the kids were treated to ice cream, while we enjoyed a small dessert tasting. With everyone satisfied, it was time to head to our next stop: Camp Flakksvann.
Staying in a Lavvu Tent at Camp Flakksvann
Just a 20-minute drive from Lillesand, Camp Flakksvann offers unique accommodations in Lavvu tents—sturdy, luxurious tents inspired by the traditional homes of the Sami people. Equipped with comfortable beds and electricity, these tents provide the perfect mix of nature and comfort. After settling in, our youngest went to bed, and we enjoyed a cozy campfire with our eldest daughter under the stars.
A Relaxed Morning and Farm Breakfast at Flakk Gard
Waking up in the Lavvu tent felt magical. For breakfast, the kind owner had arranged a meal at Flakk Gard, a nearby farm which together with Camp Flakksvann and three other farms part of the Sørlandets Bakhage Farms. After a pleasant 15-minute walk, we arrived at this second farm, where the kids were immediately distracted by the charming playground.
The farm’s owner welcomed us warmly and gave us a tour of the lush flower and vegetable gardens. The kids even got to pet some baby goats—a highlight of the morning! During the tour, we tasted herbs and vegetables straight from the garden, an amazing experience.
Our breakfast was served in a cozy greenhouse with scenic views. Fresh bread, local cheeses, homemade jams, garden-fresh vegetables, and scrambled eggs made for a delightful farm-to-table meal.
Exploring the Flakkefossen Waterfall
After breakfast, we visited Flakkefossen, a nearby waterfall. The hike was easy, passing through the field and a small forest before reaching the falls. Due to recent rainfall, the waterfall was particularly impressive. We learned that locals often bathe under the falls during dry weather—a great excuse for us to return someday!
Kayaking and Paddleboarding on the Lake
Back at Camp Flakksvann, we spent the afternoon kayaking and paddleboarding. Although initially hesitant, the kids quickly warmed up to paddleboarding after seeing how stable it was. We switched places in the middle of the lake, laughing and splashing as we took turns. It was a perfect way to connect with nature and each other.
Visiting Royland Gard Farm
Later in the day, we visited Royland Gard, another farm in the region. After a brief search (the new access road wasn’t on Google Maps yet), we found the picturesque farm, nestled on a hill. Our youngest was thrilled to spot horses.
We explored the grounds and then tried something unique—pizza topped with elk meat, paired with a cranberry sauce. While the kids opted for a simpler ham pizza, we were pleasantly surprised by the rich flavors of the elk. It reminded us of stews, with a delicious twist from the cranberry topping.
Evening Relaxation: Campfire and Hot Tub
As evening fell, we returned to Camp Flakksvann for a final night of relaxation. The kids enjoyed a soak in the hot tub before bedtime, leaving us to wind down with a glass of wine by the campfire. The tranquility of the surroundings made it the perfect end to a day full of family fun.
Practical Tips for Visiting Lillesand and Surroundings
-
Dining in Lillesand: We highly recommend dining at Strand Haven for a family-friendly meal with local delicacies.
-
Accommodation near Lillesand: Stay at Camp Flakksvann to enjoy nature in comfort with luxurious Lavvu tents.
-
Sørlandets Bakhage Farms: Camp Flakksvann is part of Sørlandets Bakhage, a network of five farms in the Birkenes region. Visitors can explore local produce, learn about farming traditions, and enjoy unique accommodations.
For more details, check out their brochure: Sørlandets Bakhage Brochure (in Dutch).
Why Lillesand Should Be on Your Family’s Travel List
Lillesand is the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and comfort. Whether you’re exploring waterfalls, enjoying local cuisine, or relaxing by a campfire, it’s a place that offers lasting memories for the entire family. With friendly locals, scenic surroundings, and activities for all ages, Lillesand and the nearby farms make for an unforgettable family holiday in Southern Norway.
Planning a trip to Southern Norway? Don’t miss Kristiansand and its island-hopping opportunities in the Kristiansandsfjord!
