Island Life
You need a boat to get to Sandøya, which is located at the outermost edge of the archipelago in Tvedestrand municipality. Sandøya is surrounded by hundreds of smaller islands, but this is where the islanders live year-round. There are about 200 residents who call this place home, whether it’s summer or winter. During the summer, the place is popular to visit; people swim, explore, and enjoy ice cream purchased from the local store. Autumn is the time for lobster fishing and slowing down the pace, while winter can bring snow and skiing – and then spring arrives once again with light and energy.
The island is naturally beautiful, with varied landscapes – from rocky shores to dense forests – and with a rich variety of wildlife. This natural splendor has led to the archipelago surrounding the island being designated as the ‘Skjærgårdsparken’ (Archipelago Park), while approximately one-fifth of Sandøya itself is covered by coniferous forest protection. This combination is quite unique.
The residents live both in tight clusters in sheltered coves and in newer houses further inland on the island.
As mentioned, the island is practically car-free. There are about seven kilometers of old-fashioned country roads, well-suited for bicycles, wheelbarrows, and carts. And then there are countless paths that wind through the wooded areas and the archipelago.
