Almost on the southernmost tip of Norway is the pleasant town of Kristiansand. The town was founded in 1641 by the Danish-Norwegian King Christian IV as a strategic port. Today it is the fifth largest town in Norway and the number one holiday destination for the domestic market. Kristiansand is a pleasant town, known for its magnificent floral displays during the summer. In the heart of town modern architecture stands shoulder to shoulder with historic buildings. Within easy reach of the town centre are forests and lakes, islands and beaches. The region boasts a wide variety of places to visit a little further afield. The smaller towns of Lillesand, Grimstad and Mandal are famous for their traditional white wooden houses. The lighthouse at Lindesnes marks the important South Cape of Norway. The valley of Setesdal was once remote, and has kept their strong traditions of silverwork, wood carving and folk music firmly alive to this day. Kristiansand is big enough to give you plenty to do, yet small enough to be thoroughly enjoyed in a day. As strategic as it was for King Christian IV, Kristiansand remains the gateway to Norway and to the Baltic. Banner Photo Credits: Arne Lunde