A picturesque town on Norway's southern coast, Mandal is known for its charming wooden houses, sandy beaches and rich maritime heritage. Start your day with a stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town, where you can admire the well-preserved 19th-century homes and one of the largest timber churches in Norway. The Mandal Museum not only illuminates the history of the town’s fishing industry but also showcases the work of the many great artists born here. Nearby you can visit the childhood home of renowned Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland and his brother Emanuel, also an accomplished artist. While you may not associate Norway with golden sands, Sjøsanden is one of the region’s most popular beaches, offering the perfect locale to relax in the summer sun and take a swim in the clear waters of the North Sea. A boat tour provides a different perspective on the picturesque coastline, as does a hike into the forested hills for views of the fjords from above.