| dbo:abstract |
Vesterøya (West Island) is one of two peninsulas outside Sandefjord, Norway. It is primarily known for its many beaches and idyllic coastal landscape, but there are also numerous trails used for hiking and biking. During the Viking Age, ocean water levels were 3–4 meters higher than today. Vesterøya was, therefore, an island surrounded by waters, but became a peninsula as water levels decreased. Vesterøya was previously known as Velløy, which derives from Vadill-øy. West Island lies between the Sandefjordsfjord and Mefjord, southeast of the city center. The landscape is dominated by hills, mountains, forests, beaches, sloping rocks, and farm fields. The peninsula has a length of 10 kilometers. It is home to a large number of vacation homes, beaches, campgrounds, and recreational areas. Seawater levels were 20–25 meters higher 5,000 years ago, which means Vesterøya consisted of a large island and 25-30 minor islets. Previous names for Vesterøya include Velløy, Vælløy, Valløy, Veløyene, and Vælløynni. There are 25 km (15 mi.) of hiking trails at Vesterøya, which is an extension of the 20 km (12 mi.) coastal path at Østerøya (East Island). Combined the 45 km (28 mi.) hiking trail is part of the international North Sea Trail. (en) |
| rdfs:comment |
Vesterøya (West Island) is one of two peninsulas outside Sandefjord, Norway. It is primarily known for its many beaches and idyllic coastal landscape, but there are also numerous trails used for hiking and biking. During the Viking Age, ocean water levels were 3–4 meters higher than today. Vesterøya was, therefore, an island surrounded by waters, but became a peninsula as water levels decreased. Vesterøya was previously known as Velløy, which derives from Vadill-øy. (en) |
