Jomfruland Nasjonalpark was established in 2016 and covers 117 square kilometres of sea, islands, and coastline off the coast of Kragerø. At its heart lies Jomfruland, a long, narrow island that feels like a different world from the mainland just a short ferry ride away.
The island stretches about seven kilometres in length but is barely 500 metres wide at its widest point. The eastern side faces the open Skagerrak with long, wind-swept stone beaches and raw coastal scenery. The western side, sheltered from the sea, is gentle farmland and meadows. This contrast between wild and pastoral on such a small island is what makes Jomfruland special.
The national park was created to protect the unique marine and coastal ecosystems of this part of the Skagerrak. The waters around the islands host kelp forests, seal colonies, and rich bird life. Jomfruland itself is one of the most important bird migration stopover points in Southern Norway, and a bird observatory on the island has been ringing and counting migrants since 1990.
Two lighthouses stand at either end of the island. Store Torungen and Lille Torungen on the nearby skerries are iconic landmarks visible from far out at sea. The old lighthouse keeper's quarters have been converted into simple accommodation.
Getting to Jomfruland requires a ferry from Kragerø, which runs regularly in summer and less frequently in winter. There are no cars on the island, just walking paths, a handful of permanent residents, and a small seasonal cafe. Bring your own food and water for longer walks. The combination of unspoiled coastal nature, birdwatching, and the simple pleasure of being on a quiet island makes it a perfect half-day or full-day escape from the E18 corridor.
The island stretches about seven kilometres in length but is barely 500 metres wide at its widest point. The eastern side faces the open Skagerrak with long, wind-swept stone beaches and raw coastal scenery. The western side, sheltered from the sea, is gentle farmland and meadows. This contrast between wild and pastoral on such a small island is what makes Jomfruland special.
The national park was created to protect the unique marine and coastal ecosystems of this part of the Skagerrak. The waters around the islands host kelp forests, seal colonies, and rich bird life. Jomfruland itself is one of the most important bird migration stopover points in Southern Norway, and a bird observatory on the island has been ringing and counting migrants since 1990.
Two lighthouses stand at either end of the island. Store Torungen and Lille Torungen on the nearby skerries are iconic landmarks visible from far out at sea. The old lighthouse keeper's quarters have been converted into simple accommodation.
Getting to Jomfruland requires a ferry from Kragerø, which runs regularly in summer and less frequently in winter. There are no cars on the island, just walking paths, a handful of permanent residents, and a small seasonal cafe. Bring your own food and water for longer walks. The combination of unspoiled coastal nature, birdwatching, and the simple pleasure of being on a quiet island makes it a perfect half-day or full-day escape from the E18 corridor.