Vestfold » Karljohansvern

In 1818, the Karljohansvern Naval Base was built in Horten by royal decree to serve as the Royal Navy’s main base. Karljohansvern served as a naval base up until 1962, when Haakonsvern Naval Base in Bergen took over this function. Because the area long served as a garrison town and fortress, much of it has been preserved in its original form. There are several recreational areas within the complex, as well as photo and naval museums. There are also beaches, Horten Forest (Hortensskogen) and the idyllic Horten Canal (Hortenskanalen) which separates Karljohansvern from the mainland. Karljohansvern lies in the middle of the south-eastern region of Norway known as Østlandet, 80 km from Oslo and only 500 m from Horten town centre.

Walk the Fortress Trail
Experience this historic site by following the Fortress Trail - a walk which takes you to places and buildings which tell of everyday life in a fortress and national, military events. Using the self-guide map you become your own guide and can experience the fortress at your own pace. Only Norwegian version.