Best lakes around Arendal offer a diverse landscape in Southern Norway, characterized by numerous freshwater lakes and a significant river system. This coastal city provides a range of recreational activities, with 93 named lakes contributing to its natural appeal. The area features varied terrain, including forests, green spaces, and a gently rolling countryside.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
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This beach is good for a stopover to take a swim in sweet water. Despite close to the road, the noise level is more than acceptable. The beach is operated by the municipality. Camping and vehicles are not allowed as per the signpost. Access to the water is shallow and very child friendly. There are limited spaces for shade.
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Lundesanden is a beautiful big sand beach hidden away in the forest of Reddal. It is long shallow sweet water which makes it perfect for children and four legged friends. Popular place to spend the night in a tent for cyclists and for RV campers. For entrance to the beach you must pay a fee to the landowner for maintenance of the area. There is a toll to get to the beach and a fee, if you wish to stay overnight. Bycicles are free!
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Here, you can leave the red markings and continue along the road back to Gurebo Gård. Alternatively, you can follow the red markings over the small bridge and walk all the way around the lake back to the lock. However, the path is still rather rough.
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Hidden place on the fjord, where you can picnic, fish and in the summer you can also swim.
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The lakes and surrounding areas in Arendal offer a variety of outdoor activities. Longumvannet is popular for hiking, touring cycling, and road cycling. The Nidelva river system, connected to Nelaug, is renowned for salmon and sea trout fishing, and you can also enjoy rowing and inflatable kayaking. For more structured routes, you can find various road cycling routes, touring bicycle routes, and MTB trails that often pass by or near these beautiful lakes.
Yes, several lakes offer excellent hiking opportunities. Longumvannet features diverse terrain with trails ranging from easy forest paths to those with coastal views. Ribbervann is encased by lush forests, providing a peaceful setting for hiking. You can also find trails that offer a View of Lake Stemvannet, with options to follow red markings around the lake.
Many lakes in the Arendal area are suitable for swimming. Ribbervann is a popular spot for its pristine waters. For designated swimming areas, consider Lundesanden, a large, shallow sand beach perfect for families, or Roresanden Beach, which is municipality-operated and very child-friendly. There's also a Picnic Spot by the Fjord where swimming is possible in summer.
Absolutely. Many lakes cater to families. Lundesanden and Roresanden Beach are particularly well-suited for children due to their shallow, sweet water access. The coastal village of Sagesund, while not a lake itself, is a popular holiday destination offering water sports and a charming atmosphere that families enjoy.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity around Arendal's lakes. Longumvannet is a favored destination for both touring and road cycling. A scenic 40-kilometer bike route follows the Nidelva river from Nelaug station to Arendal, offering picnic and swimming spots. You can explore various cycling routes and road cycling routes in the region, many of which incorporate lake views.
Fishing is a significant activity in the Arendal area. The Nidelva river, which flows through Nelaug, is famous for salmon and sea trout, with 13 different fishing sections available. Molandsvann is also suitable for fishing, and you can often find fish activity forecasts for it. Remember to check local regulations and license requirements before fishing.
The lakes around Arendal are set within a diverse natural landscape. You'll find lush forests, gently rolling countryside, and varied terrain. Lakes like Ribbervann offer pristine and tranquil settings, while Longumvannet provides a mix of forest and open green spaces. The Nidelva river system, connected to Nelaug, showcases a significant river landscape used for power generation, surrounded by natural beauty.
The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming, water sports, and enjoying the warmer weather. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful foliage changes. While specific winter activities are not detailed, the natural beauty can be appreciated year-round, though some paths might be rougher.
Ribbervann is often described as a pristine and tranquil lake, encased by lush forests, offering a peaceful retreat away from more bustling areas. Its natural beauty makes it a hidden gem for those seeking quiet outdoor experiences like swimming, fishing, and hiking.
While specific real-time data for all lakes isn't always readily available, Norwegian local authorities typically monitor water quality at popular swimming spots. It's generally advised to be cautious about water quality after heavy rainfall due to potential runoff. For current conditions, it's best to check local advisories or inquire with local outdoor groups.
Yes, Nelaug is a man-made lake formed by a dam along the Nidelva river. It plays a significant role in power generation for the region. The surrounding area, including the Nidelva river, is well-known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, particularly salmon and sea trout fishing, and a scenic bike route.


Still not found your perfect lake around Arendal? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.