Hovedøya island

The island closest to the city centre, with beautiful forests, beaches and cultural heritage.

The island closest to the city centre, with beautiful forests, beaches and cultural heritage.

Beaches and activities
The best places for swimming are found on the west side of the island, where there are two beaches. In the middle of the island there is a big field for ball games and other activities. Hovedøya is also great for hiking. Parts of the island is a nature reserve, and flowers, trees, animals etc. are protected. 

Monastery and attractions
North on the island you can visit the ruins of a Cistercian monastery from 1147. You can also see two cannon batteries from 1808 and two gunpowder depots from when the island belonged to the Norwegian army. One of the military buildings, Lavetthuset, is now used for exhibitions.

Transportation
You get to Hovedøya by taking one of the ferries from City Hall Pier 4 in the city centre. Line B1/B2/B4 takes you directly to the island in five minutes, whereas no. B3 takes you on a little tour between the other islands before you arrive at Hovedøya. There is a guest harbour on the east side of the island.

Camping and grilling
You are not allowed to camp or light a fire at Hovedøya! Grills can only be used on gravel or sand, or at designated barbecue spots (found on the beach by the big grass field).