The lake Farrisvannet south of Larvik is known for its mineral water, but for 136 years it was also the backdrop for one of Norway's most scenic railway stretches. When the Vestfoldbanen opened in 1882, the single track from Larvik to Porsgrunn was laid along the western shore of the lake, through the hamlet of Oklungen, past the small stations at Kjose and Eikenes, and down through Bjørkedalen. It was slow and winding, but beautiful.
In September 2018, the entire stretch was replaced by a new 22 kilometre double-track line designed for 250 km/h, mostly running through tunnels. Travel time between Larvik and Porsgrunn dropped from 34 to 12 minutes. The old stations closed, and the tracks along the lake fell silent after more than a century of service. The abandoned route is now being converted into a hiking and cycling trail, following the old trackbed along Farrisvannet and through Bjørkedalen: the same views the train passengers had, but at walking pace.
In September 2018, the entire stretch was replaced by a new 22 kilometre double-track line designed for 250 km/h, mostly running through tunnels. Travel time between Larvik and Porsgrunn dropped from 34 to 12 minutes. The old stations closed, and the tracks along the lake fell silent after more than a century of service. The abandoned route is now being converted into a hiking and cycling trail, following the old trackbed along Farrisvannet and through Bjørkedalen: the same views the train passengers had, but at walking pace.
