Sirdal: Water Experiences and Local History in Tonstad

Different holiday interests come together in Tonstad: swimming pools and a beach, a long local history, and handcrafted baked goods. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Sirdal, you can consider which of these experiences you want to shape your stay – relaxing hours by the water, physical activity or historical discoveries.

Pools, sauna and steam sauna at Tonstadbadet

Tonstadbadet is located in Tonstad and has three pools open to the public. The wellness pools have a water temperature of 33°C; the facility also includes a paddling pool and a learner pool. For families looking to accommodate different swimming preferences, this gives them a specific range of options within the facility.

The therapy pool features a counter-current system, massage and a water cannon, offering a range of water features. There is also a separate seating area with a whirlpool and massage function. The sports pool is cooler, at 28°C. It is 12.5 metres long and 3.5 metres deep, and has a diving tower and a diving board. A sauna and a steam sauna round out the facilities. This means you can choose between the pools based not only on water temperature but also on their features.

Water and outdoor activities

Sirdalsvannet stretches 27 kilometres from Tonstad to Osen and has an area of 19 km². The lake is a destination for sport fishermen from across Sørlandet. Fishing is permitted without a licence on its eastern side and in the river; day permits costing NOK 100 are available for the river mouth and parts of the western shore. If you want to fish, you can take these differences into account when choosing a stretch of shore.

Tonstad also has a beach with a swimming area, sun loungers and a volleyball court. Next to the football pitch is a skate and pump track park. Skaters of all ages can meet there, learn new tricks or show off their skills. As well as water activities, there are also opportunities for ball sports and wheeled sports to pursue as separate interests.

Old streets and traces of history

A walking route leads from Tonstad’s town centre along the old road to the former landing area. The historic buildings are well preserved. If you are interested in local history, this route offers an opportunity to take a closer look at the older buildings and the former landing area.

Tonstad kyrkje also connects the present with traces of the past: it stands on the site of a Catholic church dedicated to Mary, which is said to have existed there as early as the 14th century. Two bells from the former church were recast in 1776 and have been used in Tonstad kyrkje ever since. South of the centre lies Storhaugane, a burial mound probably dating from the Migration Period or the early Viking Age. It is considered evidence that Tonstad had been settled since at least around 400 AD.

Baking traditions in Tonstad

Tonstad Bakeri has been in business since 1936. This artisan bakery makes traditional yeast and shortcrust pastries based on recipes from the early 20th century. It produces most of its goods by hand; the business includes a shop and a café. For travellers who appreciate local craft traditions as well as nature and activities, the bakery offers another distinct aspect of local life.

When choosing a holiday apartment in Sirdal, you can consider whether you want your holiday interests to focus mainly on swimming pools, outdoor activities, local history or culinary traditions. You can find more local pages under Tjørhom, Tonstad, Sinnes and Lunde.

For the main travel overview: Sirdal.