Sarpsborg was founded 1,000 years ago by Saint Olaf II of Norway, and is situated beside the Sarpefossen waterfall, which has one of the highest flow rates in Europe. The city has one of the country's coolest science centres for children - and the most days of sunshine of any place in Norway.
Ever since the ice receded and made the area habitable, people have settled in Sarpsborg. But the city itself was founded by Saint Olaf when he sailed up the Glomma, Norway's longest river, in 1016. The huge waterfall Sarpefossen halted his expedition and he therefore chose the location as his capital.
Sarpefossen in Glomma has one of the highest flow rates in Europe, and has been likened to Niagara Falls. The power generated from the waterfall has played a key role in the industrial and urban development of the city, focused primarily around the company Borregaard, today a world-leading bio-refinery.
Sarpsborg is located in the heart of Østfold,between Oslo in the west and the Swedish border in the east. Explore its fascinating history at the Borgarsyssel Museum. No trip is complete without visiting Kulåsparken in the heart of the city (which also has some great play areas for the kids!).
In addition to beautiful nature and good options in the centre with restaurants, culture and shopping, there is a historic buzz about the city. In fact, no place in the country has more registered ancient petroglyphs (over 3,000 years old!) than Sarpsborg.
Families with children will find a lot of good reasons to visit Sarpsborg. INSPIRIA is one of Norway's National Science Centres, where visitors are encouraged to learn through interactive exhibitions in maths, science and technology. Or visit the spectacular planetarium - an indoor starry sky! There is even a cool pump track for skateboards, bikes and scooters right outside.
At Eventyrfabrikken, 'the Adventure Factory', you are met by a suspension bridge, pipes you can crawl through, ball pools, trampolines, pedal cars, and bouncy castles, and much more fun stuff fun within it's 2,000 square metres!
Get in-depth travel information and inspiration on Sarpsborg's official website.
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Top things to do
Don't miss these highlights.
SarpsborgSarpefossen
The waterfall is about 23 meters , and the flow of water is immense, coming from Norway's largest river Glomma. There are three power stations in Sarpsfossen; Borregaard, Hafslund and Sarp power station. Borregaard supplies power to more than 25000 households , which is more than the entire Sarpsborg city. The bridge over the waterfall was originally built in 1854, and was then described as "a great work over the Norwegian Niagara". The present bridge is from 1942.
SarpsborgBorgleden
Through a varied and lush landscape you can experience the Borgleden from the Swedish border in Halden, through the south eastern part of Norway all the way to Oslo. Have a look at the recommended pilgrimage which is suitable for day trips, short walks or as part of a long walk. How to do a pilgrimage on the Borgleden? At Borgleden you can choose between accommodation and dining on small and large farms, hotels in the cities or an apartment / cottage on a campsite. Along the path you can see idyllic towns, farms, medieval churches, manor houses and several museums as well as numerous cultural monuments from the Iron Age and the Bronze Age. The path is unevenly marked, use of maps and compass is recommended.
SarpsborgSvev Trampoline Park
Welcome to Svev Trampolinepark Sarpsborg! With its 2800 square meters, this is one of the largest trampoline parks in Norway. In Sarpsborg you can experience Wipeout, Zipline and completely unique birthday rooms, unlike anything you have ever seen. The activities are suitable for all ages and fun for the whole family.
Food and drink
Taste delicious local food and book a table at a fine restaurant.
SkjebergRestaurant Salt
Welcome to Restaurant Salt in Høysand! Come and enjoy the beautiful view of Skjebergkilen with good food and drinks. Enjoy Nordic cuisine with inspiration from the southern European food culture. Our menu is based on the best of what the seasons has to offer. The building dates from 1897 when a bathing hotel was run here. The Norwegian-Swedish king Oskar II has eaten and spent the night at the seaside hotel.
SarpsborgKaffeforretningen Sarpen
Kaffeforretningen Sarpen is an intimate eatery in the middle of the pedestrian street in Sarpsborg, and have a large variety of simple snacks and dinner dishes. We have smoothies, shakes, as well as a large and exciting coffee and tea menu. We also sell coffee and tea in bulk so you can brew coffee and tea at home. On weekdays, Kaffeforretningen Sarpen is a nice lunch and coffee bar. On Friday and Saturday evenings Sarpen is transformed into a bar with a cozy atmosphere and a tasty evening menu.
SarpsborgBorg Bierstube
Welcome to Borg Bierstube Your beer house in the middle of Sarpsborg! We have a seasonal German-inspired menu with high-quality local ingredients, skilled and committed chefs who want to give you a high-level dining experience. All our starters and main courses are served with stone oven baked sourdough bread and butter.
SkjebergPalma Kiosk & Coffee Shop
In the middle of the beach in Høysand, surrounded by volleyball courts and playgrounds ,is the beach kiosk Palma Kiosk & Kaffebar. Here Palma serves its homemade donuts, lactose-free soft drinks, Loaded Fries, organic coffee from LIPPE and everything you need to have a Palm-tastic day at the beach. Enjoy your ice cream or coffee at the beach, on the lawn or in one of the chairs around the kiosk. Welcome!
Where to stay
Book comfy hotels or cosy cabins. Find your home away from home.
SarpsborgStenbekk
Welcome to Stenbekk Close to the city center of Sarpsborg, yet in a peaceful and remote place, lies Stenbekk, overlooking the beautiful scenery of lake «Vestvannet». The history of Stenbekk dates to the 1300s. For centuries, the estate was used for farming and milling purposes, powered by the natural stream of fresh water that still runs next to the apple garden. Historical remnants from this era are still visible. Today, Stenbekk offers cozy and good, standard accommodation, traditional Norwegian food and an attractive parkland for outdoor activities, leisure and recreation. Stenbekk is suitable for families, groups, nature lovers, outdoor people, those seeking peace and quiet or simply need a bed for a good night’s sleep at an affordable price. We have 85 beds in 25 rooms, each with a private bathroom. Stenbekk is also suitable for smaller courses and conferences. You will find good opportunities for canoeing, hiking, running, biking, fishing and swimming in the area. With us you can rent a canoe only for the day or for several days if you are planning a longer trip. We look forward to welcoming you to Stenbekk!
SarpsborgScandic Sarpsborg
Pleasant hotel in the centre of Sarpsborg. Here you have both beautiful forests and the archipelago on your doorstep. Visit wonderful places such as Hafslund Manor and Sarpsfossen waterfall, or enjoy a cup of coffee from our shop in the park right outside our hotel. Every morning we serve a large and tasty breakfast to give you the best start to the day. On the buffet you will find healthy and organic breakfast products, and sweet temptations. Borrow a bike from the reception, and explore Sarpsborg. The hotel offers a barception and 24-hour lobby shop, with a selection of light meals, snacks and beverages. Free WiFi in all rooms and public areas.
Getting here and around
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