The March of the Norwegians

SUP paddling at the coastline of Blindleia in Southern Norway .
Photo: Magnus Furset©Visit Norway

Southern Norway, or Sørlandet as it is called in Norwegian, is Norway’s most popular summer destination among Norwegians. Every year they descend in great number to the southernmost part of Norway, but the outside world is completely oblivious to this.

Have a peek at Norway’s best-kept secret.

SUP in Blindleia coastal strip of Southern Norway .
Photo: Magnus Furset©Visit Norway

Southern Norway is a paradise for outdoor activities and a perfect place to take a break from the hectic pace of city life.

Bathing in Blindleia, Lillesand in Southern Norway .
Photo: Magnus Furset©Visit Norway

Every summer, Norwegians travel south to explore the beautiful coast. Here you can fish, row, kayak and swim in and around the beautiful archipelago. Enjoy the pristine natural environment and experience the magical sound of silence. All by yourself.

Blindleia i Lillesand, Sørlandet .
Photo: Magnus Furset©Visit Norway

Get a feel for the Nordic Riviera in the picturesque and charming coastal towns and villages. The preserved wooden towns offer cultural festivals, great restaurants and shopping in niche boutiques.

Brekkestø, Blindleia, Lillesand .
Photo: Magnus Furset©Visit Sørlandet

You will find golden sandy beaches almost everywhere along the coast, so there are plenty of places to recharge. You are guaranteed to find the perfect spot.

Strand i Blindleia, Lillesand .
Photo: Magnus Furset©Visit Sørlandet

It is all about spoiling yourself, escaping to lesser-known islands. It is easy to find a beach - or even an entire island - to yourself.

Blindleia, Lillesand .
Photo: Magnus Furset©Visit Norway

In the evening you can find a fancy wine bar in the city centre, take in a meal at the harbour restaurants or a drink at the rooftop bar. Everything is a short walk from the main shopping street in the vibrant summer city of Kristiansand.

Panda Panda kafe og vinbar i Kristiansand .
Photo: Magnus Furset©Visit Sørlandet

Every summer, hordes of Norwegians flock to Kristiansand to hit the biggest beach party in Scandinavia, Palmesus. The festival has hosted the most famous artists in the world. And there are plenty of small cosy festivals to explore.

Palmesus beach festival 2019 in Kristiansand .
Photo: Palmesus / Steffen Vidar Jensen

If you fancy some freshly-caught seafood, are looking for a romantic dining spot or some local cuisine, then the area has enough to satisfy every taste.

Sjøhuset restaurant i Kristiansand .
Photo: Magnus Furset©Visit Sørlandet

Have a time-of-your-life experience and eat at the Michelin-star restaurant Under, five metres below sea level.

Under underwater restaurant in Southern Norway .
Photo: BorderFreeTravels©Fredrik Bye

If you are looking for an unforgettable holiday, then you should visit these lovely, unique and very special places that provide overnight accommodation.

For example, spend a night in a treetop cabin or a hanging cocoon…

TreeTop Fiddan Wilderness Tower cabin in Lyngdal, Southern Norway .
Photo: TreeTop Fiddan

...or maybe you prefer to spend the night in a lighthouse?

Lindesnes lighthouse .
Photo: Magnus Furset©Visit Norway

Whether you still like to party hard or prefer a more tranquil experience, there are still many reasons why the southern coast of Norway is a must-visit location at least once in your lifetime.