Island hopping with bicycle

Kragerø, the jewel of lower Telemark, is famous for its fantastic archipelago, consisting of islands, islets, and skerries strung together like pearls. This cycling tour is a perfect way to explore the coastal gems of Skåtøy and Jomfruland, and is a central part of National Cycle Route No. 1.

Itinerary: Kragerø’s Coastal Gems (2-Day Suggestion)

Day 1: Arrival in Kragerø – Maritime Accommodation

You arrive in Kragerø by private car or public transport. The first night is spent at Kragerø Sportell og Appartements. This is an affordable and maritime accommodation option, ideally located in pleasant Kalstadkilen, just 2 km from Kragerø centre and the gateway to Norway’s most beautiful archipelago.

Day 2: Kragerø – Skåtøy – Jomfruland – Kragerø (22 km Cycling Distance)

The day starts with a 15-minute bike ride from Kragerø Sportell to the ferry quay in the centre. Bring your bike onto the ferry to Skåtøy.

Explore Skåtøy: The Church and Korset

After arrival on Skåtøy, you cycle on hilly terrain over a mix of asphalt and gravel roads. The first stop is Skåtøy Church (1862), popularly known as the "Archipelago Cathedral." This is Norway’s third largest wooden church, seating about 600 people.

Right next to the church is Skåtøy Kafé & Galleri, where you can enjoy homemade coffee and view the annual art exhibitions.

The cycling continues through scenic surroundings toward the end of the island. You follow the Skåtøyveien for about 7 km (easy terrain from Skåtøyroa). Along the way, you will find several great swimming opportunities.

At the far end of the island, surrounded by islets, lies the idyllic old fishing village of Korset. This place, which was previously a pilot station and the main harbour for herring fishing, is now characterized by a wonderful tranquility and archipelago idyll among old pilot houses.

Note: Express boat and water taxi can be taken to Skåtøyroa or Skåtøybrygga. From Skåtøybrygga, the route starts just over 2 km further into the island.

Jomfruland: Geology, Tower, and Beaches

From Skåtøy, the Water Taxi takes you further to Åsvik Brygge on Jomfruland.

On Jomfruland, you cycle on a flat gravel road heading north. The island offers several good eateries, exhibitions, shops, and cafés. Stop for lunch at Okidokk or Haga Kystkafé near Tårnbrygga.

After lunch, you should make the trip up the Tower to enjoy a spectacular panoramic view over the archipelago and the Skagerrak.

The cycling tour continues north past Jomfruland Hovedgård and Hasselgården, where you can buy organic herbs and vegetables. The journey proceeds through beautiful oak forests and ends at the northern tip: Øitangen. This is a beautiful recreational area with a delightful white sandy beach.

The ferry back to Kragerø centre departs in the afternoon from Tårnbrygga near Haga Kystkafé.

Practical Information and Amenities

Accommodation and Eateries

• Accommodation: Kragerø Sportell og Appartements (Kalstadkilen), Haga Kystkafé (Jomfruland, check offers).

• Cafés & Restaurants: Skåtøy Kafé & Galleri (Skåtøy), Okidokk (Jomfruland), Haga Kystkafé (Jomfruland).

Transport and Tickets

• Ferries and Boats: Timetables and more information can be found at www.fjordbat.no. Tickets can be purchased via farte.no or the Farte app (available for iPhone and Google Play).

• Water Taxis are available in Kragerø.