However, when the cold does set in and it starts snowing, it is an experience for locals and visitors alike.

Some areas do indeed get a lot of snow in the winter, but you have to head inland, a few kilometres away from the coast, to experience it.

From early January and as long as there is snow in the mountains, there is a ski bus carrying skiing enthusiasts from Kristiansand to the mountains every Saturday morning.

In Kristiansand city centre there is an ice rink which is open during the winter season.