At the crossroads (Farsund)

On our way to the south coast of Norway, we stopped in Farsund. Instead of a couple of nights, we ended up staying a week in this area rich in nature, history and amazing people.

On top of Lista Lighthouse

While sailing from Flekkefjord to Farsund, we passed Lista lighthouse. The peninsula of Lista is exposed to winds and currents. To prevent further shipwreks, the community decided to build a lighthouse. The craftsmen who initially built this granite tower took more than one season to complete the work. The lighthouse was first lit in 1836 and automated in 2003. It is open for public visit, so we came back by bus. Check out this video where we are at the top of the lighthouse while the wind is blowing 40 knots.

The sea and rocks on one side.

A beautiful marsh and green agriculture fields on the other.

Artists get inspired by the region and display outdoor creations on the site.

During our travel, we regularly noticed remains of the coastal defense system built by the Germans during World War II. The airport on Lista was constructed during the German occupation. Not only was Lista strategically situated on the coast, but Germans also wanted to secure access to precious resources in the Norwegian underground.

Friendly harbour of Farsund

Located in an agricultural district, Farsund developed its economy thanks to shipping and trade. Nowadays, the aluminium industry plays an important role. Fun fact, Farsund also has a history of piracy. During the Napoleonic Wars, the King approved piracy against the British because they were seen as the enemy. These Privateers lured passing British ships and plundered their precious cargo.

We enjoyed the friendly and relaxed atmosphere of Farsund. The warden came to check on the guests every weekday.

Our neighbours at the marina, Line, Bastian and their two kids were preparing for a year of sailing with their boat Anni. They intend to go to the carabean islands and back. On a bright sunny day, Bastian flew his drone and took the amazing arial pictures of this post.

Badehus

In search of a Scandinavian spa, we discovered this public bathing place. It also has an architect-designed sauna that is available year-round. Kudos to these two kids who jumped from 5 and 7.5 meters.

Chance encounters

During our stay, we sympathized with André who lives in Farsund. The conversation started around the features of an aluminium sailboat like Fabule. Now that their kids are grown up, André and his wife Inger are evaluating options for the next phase of their lives. They invited us to a delicious barbecue on their terrasse. It was a pleasure to meet this globetrotter family. Maybe we will meet again on the sea?

Labyrinth of islands and fjords

At the junction of islands and fjords, many Norwegians come to this area during their holidays. André took us on a sightseeing boat ride, including the scenic passage of Straumen.

Loshavn summer cottages

During the boat ride, we also discovered Loshavn where the houses were restored into beautifully kept cottages.

At the crossroads

We met amazing people in Farsund. Boats come and go along the coast of Norway. Lars and Synnove on Quest (Ovni 375) are on their way to the Lofoten. Others cross the North Sea, like Bastian and his familiy on Anni who sail to Scotland. As for us, our time in Norway comes to an end. Our last stop will be Mandal and we started looking for a weather window to sail south to the Netherlands.