Why live in Tvedestrand?

Tvedestrand is located between Arendal and Risør and is a charming coastal town featuring white wooden houses perched on steep slopes down to the harbour. Often referred to as “Sørlandets smilehull” (literally “the smiling nook of Southern Norway”), Tvedestrand is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. In the town centre, you will find everything from book treasures and antiques to restaurants, clothing stores, arts and crafts, as well as festivals, concerts, and cultural activities—all within easy reach of the main E18 highway.

Living in Tvedestrand

Nature is right on your doorstep here, with one of the world's most scenic archipelagos just moments away. Car-free island living on Sandøya and Lyngør offers unique residential choices, while Furøya is another popular recreation spot. Recent investments in a new upper secondary school, a modern sports complex, a new primary school, and a large nursery highlight the municipality's commitment to providing top-notch amenities for residents and newcomers. 

Places to live in Tvedestrand

Activities in Tvedestrand

Tvedestrand boasts a stunning archipelago, and the car-free islands of Sandøya and Lyngør are a must-visit. The town also offers its own outdoor summer water park at Tjenna, only a short walk from the shopping streets. With a sandy beach, floating inflatables, and free loan of stand-up paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks, it is a popular spot for families.

Coastal culture can be experienced at the Kystkultursenteret in Gjeving and during the annual Kystkulturuka in July. In winter, an action-packed culture festival during week 9 transforms the entire town. An important piece of Norwegian industrial heritage is on show at the Næs Jernverksmuseum, and the neighbouring Arendal & Omegn Golfklubb offers an 18-hole main course of high standard, plus a nine-hole par-3 Pay & Play course.

Several small hilltops and natural areas are close to residential neighbourhoods, featuring marked hiking routes and a dedicated day-trip cabin.

Local food producers, restaurants and cafés

Tvedestrand Fjordhotell is a unique waterfront hotel with the Sjøstjernen restaurant, offering delicious meals and a venue suitable for weddings or other major events.

Restaurant Vertshuset is renowned for its pleasant atmosphere, good food, and friendly staff, making it a cosy haven for a satisfying meal at reasonable prices.

Bonzo Bakeri and cafe in the heart of Tvedestrand serves the freshest baked goods, all made using traditional methods and natural ingredients.

Størdal Gård in Dypvåg is open every day from 9 am to 9 pm, with a self-service farm shop stocking a wide range of local products, plus a Friday pub with dinner from 5 pm.

Study in Tvedestrand

Tvedestrand has six kindergartens — three municipal and three private— some located in or near the town centre, and others on Gjeving, Sandøya, and Holt.

Tvedestrand barneskole (primary school) opened in 2023 and is for years 1 to 7, conveniently located near the centre. On the car-free island of Sandøya, Vestre Sandøya skole caters to years 1 to 4 and shares facilities with the local nursery.

Lyngmyr skole caters to students at lower secondry level, years 8-10.

Tvedestrand videregående skole (upper secondary) opened in 2020 near Mjåvann, close to town, and has space for 690 students. It is co-located with a modern sports complex.

Higher education

The University of Agder maintains a lively campus in Grimstad, about 35 minutes from Tvedestrand, offering bachelor’s and master’s programmes in various disciplines.

Learn Norwegian

Tvedestrand Red Cross organises weekly Norwegian language training at the community centre. 

Work in Tvedestrand

Tvedestrand’s economy spans traditional craft, mechanical and woodworking industries, innovative tech ventures, and a vibrant service sector. Tourism plays a central role, driven by the picturesque town centre, the Lyngør harbour community, the unique environment on Sandøya, and the historic ironworks at Nes Verk. Major employers include Tvedestrand municipality (covering health, education, and childcare services), Teamtec AS, Ertec AS, Erling Olsen AS, Tore Olsen Produksjon AS, and Fagelektro. The retail and hospitality industries also offer varied career options, reflecting Tvedestrand’s status as a popular destination for visitors throughout the year.