ØSTFOLD
Urban culture and idyllic seaside experiences
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Ready to explore some of Norway’s most charming fortress towns and wind down by the sea?
Or see edgy contemporary art and prehistoric rock-carving sites in the forest?
If so, Østfold is the perfect place for you!
Østfold runs along the eastern side of the Oslofjord, from the town of Moss to the Swedish border.
The largest city is Fredrikstad, which is one of the best preserved fortified towns in Northern Europe.
Take a free “river cruise” on the city ferry from the city centre to the historic old town, Gamlebyen.
Here, you’ll find both a selection of quirky shops and Scandinavia’s largest model railway exhibition.
During the summer months, the weekly Saturday flea market is a must.
Gamlebyen is simply brimming with creativity!
Check out the exhibitions at the Østfold Art Center (pictured) and the artists’ collective Bastion 5.
Round off your visit with a culinary experience at one of the local eateries, like Restaurant Slippen.
Now, hit the beach! The Hvaler islands are the place for idyllic seaside experiences.
Here, sunscreen, a swimsuit, and your coolest pair of sunglasses are all you really need.
And remember: the ocean breeze is a natural stress reliever all year round.
More fun awaits at the border.
In Halden, the fortress Fredriksten towers above the friendly border town.
Follow the cobbled streets towards the harbour. Make sure to stop in a local café or one of the charming shops.
Maybe you’ll catch a glimpse of one of the town’s many American classic cars?
Visit the historic Rød Manor House, where you can take a stroll in the beautiful English landscape garden after a visit to the museum.
Bring the family – they’ll love it!
Looking for more adventure? Klatreparken, one of Scandinavia’s largest climbing parks, is close to Halden. And if you’re not afraid of heights, why not sleep in a treehouse?
Indre Østfold is packed with family fun! Meet animals at local farms, splash around at Østfoldbadet – one of Norway’s best water parks – or jump into action at the Sprett activity park.
Another regional attraction is the Halden Canal. Travel by ferry or motorboat through Brekke sluser – the highest canal locks in Europe, built back in the 1800s.
Explore scenic rivers and lakes by canoe or kayak – from the historic Halden Canal to the serene Rakkestad River and Lake Lyseren.
Speaking of water: did you know that Ørje is home to Norway’s largest steamship community? Several vessels, including both engine-run ships like MS Brekke and steam-powered ships such as DS Hans (pictured), ply the Halden Canal.
Do you like contemporary art?
If so, you must visit the coastal town of Moss and the Jeløy peninsula. The art gallery F15 offers high-quality art experiences. You also must sample an Albykringle (a local soft, sweet and delicious pretzel) in the café!
Belly satisfied, take a stroll on the beautiful coastal paths …
... go for a bike ride through the beautiful maple tree-lined alée ...
… or delve into the large art collection at the manor house, Refsnes Gods, which includes major names like Edvard Munch and Andy Warhol.
You’re very welcome to spend the night here. Or head a bit further south, to Støtvig Hotel in Larkollen.
Can you decipher the 3,000-year-old rock carvings on the prehistoric path Oldtidsruta in Sarpsborg?
Since the last Ice Age, there have been human settlements in the area. Østfold is home to Norway’s largest collection of rock carvings.
Sarpsborg was founded in 1016 by King Olaf Haraldsson of Norway, whose people were unable to pass the Sarpefossen waterfall by boat.
Considering that Sarpefossen has one of the largest waterflows of any European waterfall, we can’t really blame him!
Visit the Inspiria Science Center for cool experiments and activities. Afterwards, try some old school tricks at the bike park outside.
Hike marked trails, relax by the water, cycle the Unionsleden, the Union Trail from Moss to Karlstad that runs through Indre Østfold.
Find more information about Indre Østfold, Fredrikstad, Sarpsborg, Halden, and Moss.
Or check out the best attractions, hotels, and restaurants in Østfold on our plan your trip to Østfold page.
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