Raet National Park

Raet Overview

Raet National Park, known as Raet nasjonalpark in Norwegian, is a stunning coastal park located in southern Norway in Agder County. Covering approximately 107 square miles (278 square kilometers), it stretches along the coastline of the municipalities of Arendal, Grimstad, and Tvedestrand.

Established in 2016, this relatively new national park was created to protect Norway’s largest geological formation of rolling glacial deposits, known as raet, which was left behind after the last Ice Age. The park features a rich blend of marine and terrestrial environments, making it an important conservation area for both wildlife and natural landscapes.

The park’s terrain is defined by its coastal and marine landscapes, with a diverse combination of rocky islets, sandy beaches, and smooth, weather-worn skerries. The hallmark of the park is its moraine landscape, formed by retreating glaciers that left behind ridges of stones and gravel.

These formations create a unique and ever-changing shoreline, which is continuously shaped by the force of the sea. Vegetation varies from low-lying coastal heaths and salt-tolerant plants to mixed woodlands further inland, providing diverse habitats for various species. The shallow waters around the islands and mainland are rich with kelp forests, eelgrass meadows, and coral reefs, contributing to a highly productive marine ecosystem.

Wildlife in Raet National Park is abundant, particularly in its coastal and marine environments. Birdlife is one of the park’s highlights, with numerous seabird species such as common eiders, black guillemots, and Arctic terns nesting on the islets. The park is also an important stopover for migratory birds, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

Among the mammals that can be found in the park are European otters, which thrive along the coast, and harbor seals that are frequently spotted basking on the rocky shores. The marine waters are home to various fish species, shellfish, and crustaceans, attracting both commercial and recreational fishers. The kelp forests support an array of marine life, including sea urchins and starfish, while porpoises and the occasional orca can be seen offshore.

Visitors to Raet National Park are drawn to its unspoiled landscapes and opportunities for outdoor recreation. The park is popular for kayaking and boating, as its archipelago of islands and skerries offers excellent conditions for paddlers of all skill levels. Hiking trails run along the coastline, providing scenic views of the rugged shores and clear blue waters.

Swimming and snorkeling are also common activities in the park’s sheltered coves, where the rich underwater life can be observed. Anglers enjoy fishing in the park’s waters, with opportunities to catch cod, mackerel, and other species. Due to its well-preserved natural beauty, the park is also a favorite among nature photographers seeking to capture the dramatic seascapes and diverse wildlife.

Conservation in Raet National Park focuses on preserving its fragile coastal and marine ecosystems. One of the key challenges is balancing human activity with environmental protection, as increased tourism and recreational use can pose threats to bird nesting areas and marine habitats. The presence of invasive species, such as the Pacific oyster, also poses ecological concerns.

However, conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and sustainable tourism initiatives, have been implemented to mitigate these challenges. The park’s management emphasizes responsible outdoor activities, and guidelines are in place to protect vulnerable species and landscapes. Through continued conservation work, Raet National Park serves as a model for marine and coastal preservation in Norway, ensuring that its natural beauty remains intact for future generations.

Park Map

Raet National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Raet National Park, located along the southern coast of Norway, is a stunning coastal park known for its unique geological formations, diverse marine life, and scenic islands. This park is characterized by its rolling coastal landscapes, rocky shores, and a rich underwater ecosystem. The park is home to various marine species, mammals, and birds, making it a great location for nature enthusiasts.

Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina)
One of the most commonly seen marine mammals in Raet National Park, harbor seals are often spotted resting on rocky shores and skerries. These seals are known for their rounded heads and expressive eyes, and they feed on fish and crustaceans.

European Otter (Lutra lutra)
This semi-aquatic mammal thrives in the park’s rivers, estuaries, and coastal waters. European otters are excellent swimmers and feed primarily on fish, amphibians, and crustaceans. They are often spotted near freshwater streams leading into the sea.

Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena)
The harbor porpoise is the most common cetacean found in the waters of Raet National Park. These small, shy marine mammals can often be seen surfacing briefly as they hunt for fish in the nutrient-rich waters.

Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua)
A keystone species in the North Atlantic, Atlantic cod is commonly found in the waters around Raet National Park. This important fish species plays a crucial role in the marine food chain and is a favorite target for recreational fishers.

Lumpsucker (Cyclopterus lumpus)
A unique-looking fish known for its round, bumpy body and suction cup-like pelvic fins, the lumpsucker is a fascinating species found in the coastal waters. It is often spotted in shallow rocky areas where it attaches itself to surfaces.

Edible Crab (Cancer pagurus)
This large, brown crab is commonly found along the seabed in the park’s waters. It is an important species for local fisheries and is known for its strong claws and delicious meat.

Norway Lobster (Nephrops norvegicus)
A prized crustacean, the Norway lobster, or langoustine, lives in burrows in sandy seabeds. It is an important species both ecologically and economically, supporting local fishing industries.

Atlantic Mackerel (Scomber scombrus)
A fast-swimming and highly migratory fish, the Atlantic mackerel is commonly found in the waters of Raet National Park. This fish is known for its striking iridescent skin and plays a key role in the marine ecosystem.

European Eel (Anguilla anguilla)
This mysterious and critically endangered fish migrates between freshwater and saltwater environments. Young eels, known as elvers, can sometimes be found in the park’s estuaries and streams.

Velvet Swimming Crab (Necora puber)
Recognizable by its red eyes and aggressive nature, the velvet swimming crab is a fast and active predator found in rocky coastal waters. It is an important species in the park’s intertidal zone.

Birds

Raet National Park is also an important habitat for a variety of bird species, particularly seabirds and waders. The park’s coastal cliffs, islands, and wetlands provide excellent nesting and feeding grounds for these birds.

European Herring Gull (Larus argentatus)
A common sight along the coast, the European herring gull is a large and opportunistic seabird that feeds on fish, invertebrates, and even human scraps. Their loud calls are a signature sound of the shoreline.

Common Eider (Somateria mollissima)
This large sea duck is well-known for its striking plumage and its ability to dive for mollusks and crustaceans. Common eiders are often seen bobbing in the waves or nesting on small islands within the park.

Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo)
With its long neck and dark feathers, the great cormorant is a skilled diver that catches fish underwater. It is often seen drying its wings on rocks along the coastline.

Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea)
Known for having one of the longest migration routes of any bird, the Arctic tern visits the coastal waters of Raet National Park in the summer. It is easily recognizable by its sharp, pointed wings and graceful flight.

Eurasian Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus)
A striking black-and-white shorebird with a long, bright orange bill, the Eurasian oystercatcher feeds on shellfish along the rocky and sandy shores of the park.

Black Guillemot (Cepphus grylle)
A small seabird with black plumage and distinctive red feet, the black guillemot nests in crevices along rocky coastlines and dives for fish in the cold waters.

Northern Gannet (Morus bassanus)
This large seabird is famous for its spectacular plunge-diving behavior. Northern gannets can be seen soaring above the waves before diving headfirst into the sea to catch fish.

Common Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna)
A colorful duck with striking black, white, and chestnut plumage, the common shelduck prefers mudflats and estuaries. It feeds on mollusks and small invertebrates.

Eurasian Curlew (Numenius arquata)
Recognizable by its long, curved bill and haunting call, the Eurasian curlew is a wading bird that forages for invertebrates in the park’s wetlands and coastal areas.

Razorbill (Alca torda)
A relative of the puffin, the razorbill is a black-and-white seabird with a thick, blunt beak. It is an excellent swimmer and often dives deep to catch small fish.

Raet National Park offers a rich diversity of wildlife, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. Whether exploring its rocky shores, marine waters, or coastal wetlands, visitors can encounter a wide range of fascinating species.