On a small headland on the island of Merdø stands this majestic customs house from the 1650s, now completely renovated into a luxurious vacation home where you can experience a unique combination of history and modern comfort. The thick timber walls bear witness to the building's rich past, while modern upgrades ensure a comfortable vacation.
With eight to nine bedrooms, all with private bathrooms, and a large living room with panoramic windows on the second floor, this place is perfect for larger groups. The modern kitchen and dining area can seat 20 people, and the view of the approach to Arendal creates a spectacular setting for shared meals.
The private garden is a little paradise throughout all seasons – with an outdoor kitchen, barbecue, and plenty of space for enjoyable meals together. In summer, you can enjoy sunny days at the shared sandy beach, while autumn offers bright colors and fresh sea air. In winter, the silence and frost-covered nature provide a unique tranquility, and when spring arrives, life sprouts again around the hot tub and garden. The private pier has space for two boats, perfect for small excursions and adventures at sea all year round.
Merdø is an idyllic island with around 50 historic holiday homes and a cozy inn serving good food and drink. The island shows its charm in all seasons – lively and sun-warmed in summer, golden and calm in autumn, peaceful and atmospheric in winter, and fresh and renewing in spring. Here you can truly experience the changes in nature and find peace, whatever the time of year.
Descriptions and highlights have been auto-translated from Norwegian
Wifi
Barbecue (gas/charcoal)
Canoe/Kayak/Row-boat
Campfire site
Close to hiking paths
Garden recliners
Close to hiking paths
Garden recliners
Wilderness bath
Jetty
Outdoor games
Outdoor kitchen
Outdoor shower
Parasol
Garden furniture
Sea view
Hot tub
Terrace
Alternative toilet
Bathtub
Dryer
Electricity
Heat pump
Highchair
Running water
Washing machine
Woodburning stove
Coffee machine
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Exhaust hood
Freezer
Microwave
Oven
Streaming service
TV
Wireless music player
Highlights from Stig Tanum and tore ivar
Host since November 2025
Enjoy panoramic views of the approach to Arendal from the restored customs house.
Swim at your own sandy beach or relax in the outdoor hot tub with sea views
Visit Merdø Kro and explore the island's historic Southern Norwegian buildings
We immediately fell in love with this charming property in the archipelago along the southern coast. With experience of cabin life on islands in Vestfold and Agder, we appreciate the unique tranquility of island life with its mild summer weather and the harsh forces of nature during the rest of the year. When we discovered the old customs station on Merdø in 2022, it was love at first sight.
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The home
Linen and towelsIncluded
Tea towels and dishclothsIncluded
EV charging is not allowed
Arrival from 15:00
Departure by 10:00
Rules of the home
Parties are not allowed
Smoking is not allowed
Pets are welcome
This doesn't necessarily mean that the home has suitable features, so check to see if there is a cot and high chair.
Children are welcome (ages 3-12)
Cancellation Policy
Get a full refund if you cancel up until 14 days before check-in.
You may cancel your booking within 48 hours after receiving a booking confirmation or until 14 days before the arrival day for a full refund. Until 7 days before the arrival day, you may cancel for a 50% refund. If you cancel less than 7 days before the arrival day or book 72 hours before the arrival day, you will not be refunded.