Kragerøbanen

The Kragerø Line at Neslandsvatn – Hiking and Cycling in Historic Footsteps

The decommissioned railway line known as the Kragerø Line—locally referred to simply as "Banen" (The Track) in Neslandsvatn—has been given a new lease on life as a popular recreational trail. Once an important branch of the Sørlandet Line from 1927 until its closure in 1989, it has now been transformed into an attractive outdoor area in southern Drangedal.

Activity and Hiking Trail (Neslandsvatn to Merkebekk)

The section between Neslandsvatn and Merkebekk has been converted into a 7-kilometer long combined hiking and walking path. The first kilometer is the most developed and serves as a perfect destination for the whole family, offering a wide range of activities:

• Play and Sports: Here you will find a climbing wall, a climbing pyramid, a sand volleyball court, a bocce court, and a playground.

• Exercise and Rest Areas: Exercise benches and picnic spots are situated along the trail, which is also equipped with streetlights.

• Swimming and Grilling: The area features a dedicated swimming spot and a campfire/grill hut at the start of the trail. At the Oterbekk swimming area, you will find "Oterbekkbua," a gathering place equipped with an outdoor kitchen, sheltered seating, a grill, and a toilet.

From Eskilt, the journey continues along the old railway embankment on a fine gravel surface through forest and cultural landscapes:

• Eskilt – Merkebekk: approx. 4.6 km

• Merkebekk – Kragerø border: approx. 1 km

The entire section through Drangedal is now continuous, totaling about 7 km. On the Kragerø side, work is currently underway to convert their portion of the old tracks into a trail as well.

Merkebekk – Experiences Under Development

Merkebekk is a central stop along the route. The municipality, with external support, has purchased the old station buildings to facilitate further development. Upcoming features include:

• A restored station area with a historic atmosphere.

• Accommodation options in collaboration with DNT (The Norwegian Trekking Association).

• A "Day-trip cabin" located in the old warehouse at Merkebekk Station.

More information will be posted here once these facilities are open.

A Trip for Everyone

The Kragerø Line is an accessible trail suitable for most people. The gentle incline of the old railway makes it an easy walk or ride.

• Short strolls on "Banen."

• Longer cycling trips through the entire route.

• Family outings with swimming.

• Quiet walks in historic surroundings.

Note: There are also marked hiking trails in the surrounding terrain to Svanroskøllen and Dyvikheia, starting from Heldøla (parking available). See ut.no for more details.

Future Vision and Development

The 7-kilometer stretch from Neslandsvatn/Sagodden, past Merkebekk, and all the way to the Kragerø border is now complete. As the Kragerø side continues its development, the ultimate goal is to create a continuous greenway connecting the lakes of Neslandsvatn and Toke all the way to the coastal town of Kragerø.

Responsible Travel

We encourage everyone to help preserve this area by:

• Staying on the marked paths.

• Always taking your trash home with you.

• Respecting nature and wildlife.