Gea Norvegica UNESCO Global Geopark

Gea Norvegica UNESCO Global Geopark covers approximately 3,000 square kilometres across Vestfold and Telemark. Discover how ice ages, volcanoes and millions of years of geological activity have shaped the landscape. The geopark spans seven municipalities, with several fascinating places to visit in Larvik, including Mølen, Bøkeskogen and Kjærra Fossepark. Gea Norvegica became Scandinavia's first member of the international geopark network in 2006. Today, it is part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks network, with geological visitor sites, information boards and guided experiences during the season.

Mølen – discover the traces of the Ice Age

At Mølen, on the outer coast of Brunlanes, a long pebble beach stretches towards the Skagerrak. The stones tell a story that began long before people settled here. Glaciers and meltwater carried rocks and gravel from across southeastern Norway. As the ice retreated, the material formed part of the extensive Ra moraine. Take time to look at the different stones along the shore. You will also find ancient burial cairns and information about the formation of the landscape. Mølen is a protected site. Leave stones where you find them and take care around the burial cairns and surrounding nature.

Bøkeskogen – a forest shaped by the Ice Age

Bøkeskogen in Larvik grows on the Ra moraine, the same glacial ridge that can be seen at Mølen. The deposits left by the ice provided suitable conditions for the beech trees to grow. As you walk beneath their tall trunks, you are exploring a landscape shaped by ice, sea and human history. Bøkeskogen has marked walking trails and burial mounds dating from the Iron Age and Viking Age. You can also walk to the Utsikten viewpoint overlooking Lake Farris.

Kjærra Fossepark – natural history beside the river

At Kjærra Fossepark in the Lågendalen valley, explore waterfalls, traditional salmon fishing history and a landscape shaped by the River Numedalslågen. The park also has a geological timeline showing important events in Earth's history. It offers an accessible introduction to the extraordinary timescales involved in shaping our planet. Walk across Kjærrabrua bridge, stop beside the falls and explore at your own pace.

Larvikite – Larvik's distinctive stone

Have you noticed dark stone with a shimmering blue appearance on building façades, floors or kitchen worktops? It may be larvikite. This rock occurs naturally in the Larvik area and is known for the play of colour visible when it is cut and polished. Along the Larvik coast, you can also see how glaciers have shaped and smoothed the bedrock. The coastal rocks offer a chance to spot traces of the powerful ice that once covered the region.

Explore the geopark at your own pace

Gea Norvegica has geological visitor sites across Larvik, Bamble, Kragerø, Nome, Porsgrunn, Siljan and Skien. Many sites can be explored independently throughout the year, with information panels helping you understand the landscape. The geopark also offers guided tours, particularly from spring to early autumn. Check the programme if you would like to explore with a guide and learn more about the rocks, scenery and history. Discover the locations and upcoming activities on the official Gea Norvegica website.

Help protect the landscape

Visitor sites across the geopark differ in terrain, accessibility and local regulations. Some have well-maintained paths, while others have rocky surfaces or sensitive historic remains. Follow signs and local rules. At Mølen, removing stones and disturbing the burial cairns are prohibited. Help preserve these remarkable landscapes for future visitors.

Plan your visit

Gea Norvegica UNESCO Global Geopark includes geological visitor sites across Vestfold and Telemark. In Larvik, you can explore Mølen, Bøkeskogen and Kjærra Fossepark.

Choose a place to visit

Mølen reveals Ice Age history along a pebble beach. Bøkeskogen offers marked trails on the Ra moraine, while Kjærra Fossepark has waterfalls and a geological timeline. Each site is in a different location and can be visited independently.

Season and guided tours

Many sites can be visited independently throughout the year. Guided tours are also offered, particularly between April and September. Check current dates, meeting points, registration requirements and prices for individual tours.

Getting there and accessibility

Access, parking and terrain vary between locations. Mølen has rocky ground, while Bøkeskogen has wide gravel paths and some steep sections. Check the information for your chosen site, especially if you have accessibility requirements.

Good to know

The geopark does not have a single entrance or one continuous walking route. Some sites have special protection rules. At Mølen, do not remove stones or disturb the burial cairns. Follow local signs and take your litter with you.

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