Larvik
Follow Tunsbergleden through Vestfold, from Larvik past Viking heritage and historic coastal towns.
The Pilgrim Path through Vestfold follows approximately 110 kilometres of Tunsbergleden, beginning in Larvik and continuing north towards Bærum. The route passes through farmland, woodland, small communities and historic towns. Along the way, you can discover sites connected to the Viking Age and the Middle Ages, with opportunities to combine walking with cultural experiences and overnight stays. Walk several stages or choose a shorter section. The complete Tunsbergleden route from Larvik to Haslum Church in Bærum is 190 kilometres long.
From Larvik to Sandefjord
The pilgrimage begins in Larvik, near the mouth of the Numedalslågen River. From here, the route crosses the Tjølling countryside, passing farms, woodland and old tracks. One of the historic sites along the way is Kaupang, an important Viking Age trading settlement. Further on, you pass Istrehågan, an Iron Age burial site known for its distinctive stone settings. These places offer a glimpse of life in Vestfold long before the development of today's towns. The trail continues towards central Sandefjord.
From Sandefjord towards Tønsberg
Leaving Sandefjord, the route passes Gokstadhaugen, the burial mound where the Gokstad ship was discovered in 1880. Heading north, the landscape alternates between farmland and coastal scenery. Depending on the route, the journey may involve boat connections via Veierland, a car-free island in Tønsbergfjorden. Check the current walking route and ferry services before planning this stage. From the Nøtterøy countryside, the pilgrimage continues towards Tønsberg.
Viking and medieval history in Tønsberg
In Tønsberg, you can explore one of Norway's historic town centres. Vikingodden, beside the waterfront, offers insight into traditional Viking shipbuilding and the Oseberg ship heritage. From the harbour, continue towards Slottsfjell, where the remains of the medieval Tunsberghus fortress overlook the town and fjord. Allow time to explore the area, visit a museum or enjoy a break before continuing your walk.
Towards Åsgårdstrand and Borre
North of Tønsberg, the route crosses woodland and continues towards Åsgårdstrand, a coastal town associated with the artist Edvard Munch. The path then leads towards Borre and its impressive Viking Age burial mounds. Nearby, Midgard Viking Centre offers opportunities to learn about the region's Viking heritage. The site also includes Gildehallen, a reconstruction inspired by the great halls of the Viking Age.
From Horten further north
Beyond Borre, Tunsbergleden passes the areas around Borrevannet and Løvøya, where medieval Løvøy Chapel is another historic landmark. The route continues through northern Vestfold towards Bærum. At Haslum Church, Tunsbergleden connects with Gudbrandsdalsleden, which leads onwards towards Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim.
A long-distance walk in stages
Tunsbergleden is suitable for both multi-day pilgrimages and shorter walks focused on nature and history. The terrain is generally gentle, but surfaces vary between paved roads, gravel tracks, woodland paths and historic routes. The entire trail is not wheelchair accessible, and some sections have incomplete waymarking. The recommended walking season is from March to November. Plan accommodation, meals and transport for each stage, particularly outside summer. Find official trail maps, GPX tracks and stage suggestions on the Pilgrim Paths website.
Plan your visit
Tunsbergleden begins in Larvik and crosses Vestfold before continuing north towards Bærum. Choose a single day walk or plan a longer pilgrimage.
Distance and duration
The route through Vestfold is approximately 110 km. The complete Tunsbergleden from Larvik to Haslum Church in Bærum is 190 km, with a suggested duration of around nine days. Actual walking time depends on your stages, pace and stops.
Starting point and stages
The trail begins in Larvik near the Numedalslågen River and passes through areas including Sandefjord, Tønsberg, Åsgårdstrand and Borre. Use the official digital map to select your stage and check the current route. If walking via Veierland, verify ferry connections and timetables in advance.
Terrain and waymarking
The terrain is generally gentle, with paved roads, gravel tracks, historic routes and woodland paths. Waymarking is incomplete in some sections. Carry an up-to-date map or GPX track. The full trail is not wheelchair accessible.
Good to know
The recommended walking season is 1 March to 1 November, depending on weather and ground conditions. Plan accommodation, food and water for each stage. Opening hours and transport services may vary, especially outside summer. Respect farmland, nature and historic sites along the trail.
Explore route maps and plan your walk →
Source: Visit Vestfold