Stavern.

Historic, wild and beautiful. A much needed boost to the senses.

If there is no such thing as eternal summer in Stavern, it exists as an eternal image. Close your eyes and say ‘STAVERN’. What’s the first thing that springs to mind?

Wooden boats pottering around the harbour. Yellow barracks bathing in sunshine. Seagulls, happy people and lazy days. Stavern is the visual manifestation of summer. Surrounding this summery bliss, there is fascinating history shrouded in some of Norway's most beautiful natural landscapes. Here you can hike along the coast and visit idyllic fishing villages, museums and historical sites. This makes Stavern a destination for all seasons. Enjoy.

Stavern fun facts

Did you know…

Smoke signals. Captain Ohlsen's optical telegraph were tested in 1808 and revolutionized the military alert system. The system replaced the old cairns along the coast from Trondheim to Hvaler.
Cramped conditions. The famous yellow barracks were originally red (because red paint was cheaper than the yellow) and date back to the 1750s when a naval shipyard was built for the Norwegian Navy in Stavern. Both privates and officers shared the same living quarters - in addition to bakers. It was so cramped that conditions for hiring bakers stated that they had to be extra thin and no taller than 150 cm.

Moments in Stavern. A few faves…

Idylliske Citadelløya

The Citadel island and Stavern fort, not only historic but also incredibly scenic. The fort was built in 1685 and was one of the most important bases for Norwegian-Danish warships. Peter Wessel Tordenskiolds was a well-known figure at the fort. There are several interesting exhibition to check out. These days the island is known for its artist activities during the summer.
Historic and beautiful

Fredriksvern Verft was built in 1750 as the first major naval station in Stavern. The historic buildings are protected are currently hosting several exhibitions. The Easter and autumn exhibitions are particularly popular. In the vicinity you can also see the Peace Ships, an installation made by the artist Päivi Laakso, consisting of old wooden boats with light and sound installed.
Costal hike from Stavern

This must be the ultimate hike for lovers of nature and history. The trail from from Stavern to Helgeroais approx 35 km. Along the way you can explore Mølen, the Memorial hall, The Coastal Museum, the idyllic fishing village of Nevlunghavn and much more.
Brisk accommodation

… unless you decide to visit the lighthouse during the summer, that is. Svenner lighthouse was protected in 1997 and is part of Norway’s national cultural heritage. The vegetation is barren, but the bird life is diverse with an impressive range of seagulls nesting. Svenner lighthouse is a perfect option for getting close to the elements. We will organize the stay for you.

Accommodation in Stavern. How about…

Hotel Wassilioff

Hotel Wassilioff is a historic hotel with great location in the heart of Stavern. The hotel has a long and colourful history and has provided hospitality since 1844. Hotel Wassilioff is open all year round, has 58 rooms and excellent conferences facilities for smaller groups. The location is perfect for combining culture with nature. Wassilioff claims to have Stavern's best à la carte restaurant with great views of the harbor.