Arendal

Arendal has gone from being a small southern village, based around seven small islands, to become the tenth largest town in Norway in terms of population. After merging the municipalities of Hisøy, Moland, Tromøy and Øyestad. Arendal now has approximately 40.700 inhabitants and covers an area of 269,9 km2 in Aust-Agder. Arendal´s varied industry builds on solid traditions.

For centuries up to 70% of Norwegian iron ore used to came from this area. This industry and the timber trade led to the growth of Scandinavia's most important maritime town in the great age of the sailing ships. In 1992, Tyholmen received the Europa Nostra prize for being Europe's best preserved part of a town. Pollen, the guest boat harbour in the centre of Arendal, is situated right at the centre of the town's restaurant area with its bustling nightlife. Rådhusbrygga, a quiet and peaceful guest harbour at the furthest end of Tyholmen.

TYHOLMEN

The old part of the town, with a number of uniquely preserved houses and buildings from 1600-1900, including the town museum and the town hall. Awarded the Europa Nostra Silver medal in 1992 for the preservation and adaption to modern use. In Tyholmen you can wander through narrow lanes, winding streets and interesting alleys and experience the atmosphere of the past. Tyholmen captures the identity of the town of Arendal with its rows of impressive wooden buildings along the Pollen and Rådhusgaten streets, as well as the picturesque collection of small houses at Øvre Tyholmen.

POLLEN

The guest boat harbour in the centre of Arendal, is situated right at the centre of the town's restaurant area with its bustling nightlife.

KIRIN

Kirin Brewery Company Japans first and biggest brewery, was established by Johan Martinius Thoresen from Arendal.

ARENDAL TOWN HALL

Built as a private residence for thc Kallevig family 1812 - 15. Has served as town hall since 1844. Wooden building in the empire style (tallest in the country), and listed. Beautiful reception rooms.

AUST-AGDER MUSEUM

Aust-Agder history museum has important collections of shipping, geology, mineralogy, urban and coastal culture 1600 - 1900, shipowner's residences from 1858.

ARENDAL MUSEUM "KLÖCKERS HOUSE"

Built as a private residence in 1812. Shows how a privileged member of the upper classes lived some 100 years ago. Furniture from the 17th to 19th centuries.

MERDØGAARD MUSEUM

Merdøgaard is a listed house, built in 1736. A coastal steamer goes from Pollen in the centre of Arendal. Open every day during the school summer holidays. Beach and cafe.

BRATTEKLEV SHIPYARD

See how the old sailing ships were built. The shipyard and the houses belonging to it are as they were 100 years ago.

LERESTVEIT MINES

Mining district with some 32 mines, idyllic situation close to Nidelva river. One of the mines is used especially for guided tours.

STAUB0 KULTURSENTER

Staubø Kultursenter (cultural centre) is situated beside the Eikeland fjord, approximately 20 km from Arendal towards Tvedestrand. RV 410 towards Kilsund and Staubø. The centre features a gallery, art and crafts, a museum, a cafe and culture. Wander with us, a visit to the museum with objects from the area, take a look at what's on show in the gallery, or see exciting things from arts and crafts. A small intimate cafe has been opened where you can sit indoors or outdoors. Outside opening hours by arrangement.

OFFSHORE CLASS I

The largest and fastest boat race in Norway ever. 25 40 - 50 foot racing boats with 2500 horsepower engines and top speeds of 225 km/h. Boat parade through the streets of the town. Start and finish at Pollen.

SOUTHERN NORWAY'S BOAT FAIR

Norway's largest floating boat fair, with boats in the water and equipment on land.

TOWN HALL QUAY (RÅDHUSBRYGGA)

Quiet, peaceful guest marina furthest out on Tyholmen in Arendal town centre. 200 metres walk to the Vaskebaren.

VASKEBAREN SANITARY FACILITIES

Showers, toilets, washing machine and tumble driers. Situated 10 metres from the Town Hall jetty (Rådhusbrygga) at Pollen.

SAILING CABIN

At the entrance to Arendal harbour. With approximately 30 places, showers and toilets!.

BEAVER SAFARI

We visit an area populated by beavers and can see the beaver's amazing exploits, such as felled trees and beaver lodges.

FISHING

"Angling Guide" giving survey of the lakes and where to buy fishing licences in the region. Information on fishing sites and fishing licences in the Arendal area. A map of good fishing areas and brochures of fishing permit areas can be bought from sørlands INFO. Fish in rivers / fresh water, for example the Nidelva (River Nid). For more detailed information about fishing permits, rules, brochures, list of landowners etc.

GOLF

Arendal & Omegn Golfclub (Nes Verk Golfpark) is situated in beautiful countryside surroundings at Nes Verk, 3 km from Fiansvingen. Today Nes Verk Golfpark is one of the largest and best golf courses in Norway. The club can offer an 18-hole undulated course of high standard, and a 9-hole challenging Pay & Play Course, driving range and putting green.