Oslo seamlessly blends urban convenience with natural landscapes, offering easy access to both lush forests and the tranquil Oslofjord for a unique outdoor experience in Norway's capital.
Despite its status as capital city, Oslo is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled between the Oslofjord and dense forests, the city serves as a gateway to both aquatic and terrestrial adventures.
Visitors can embark on a variety of activities, from hiking along the well-maintained trails of Nordmarka to kayaking in the serene waters of the fjord.
The city's commitment to preserving its green spaces is evident in the abundant parks and reserves, including the popular Bygdøy Peninsula, which offers not only beaches and walking paths but also a fascinating insight into Norway’s maritime history through its museums.
Oslo's efficient public transport system allows easy access to these natural retreats, encouraging tourists to explore the great outdoors just minutes away from the city centre.
This seamless integration of city and nature invites both locals and tourists to enjoy a vibrant outdoor lifestyle year-round.
Exploring Oslo beyond the urban core
Since moving from the city centre to the hills of Oslo, I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the area, despite the distraction of Euro 2012!
The Holmenkollen-Frognerseteren area is the gateway to Nordmarka (the northern forest), a vast expanse of “the great outdoors” which makes up the northern part of Oslo.
The Holmenkollen ski arena and the Tryvann ski resort are both within easy reach from my new pad, together with the starting points of a complex network of forest trails, weaving their way ever northward past lakes such as Maridalsvann and popular cabins such as Ullevålseter.
But the truth is I've barely scratched the surface of what's up in Nordmarka, it goes on for miles and miles.
At weekends, Oslo heads to the hills
The Norwegian word marka can be translated as woodland or forest, but it has a wider meaning synonymous with outdoor recreation, the first love of any Norwegian!
I’ve met very few Norwegians who don’t have access to a cabin in the mountains, a summer house with a boat, or at the very least a pair of skis!
This spans the generations too, for on a Saturday daytime the forests are full of elderly couples hiking and living very active lifestyles, although they often pause for a rather large quantity of waffles!
What struck me most on my first day living in the hills was the amount of cyclists, not just on the road but also in the forest. There really are a lot!
The substantial network of cross-country ski trails becomes hiking and biking routes over the snow-free summer, and Oslo folk make the most of it.
The Islands of the Oslofjord
Oslo’s outdoor attractions aren’t just restricted to the forest and parks. Out in the Oslofjord lie a handful of beautiful islands full of nature trails. Best of all, they are just a few minutes’ ride by passenger ferry from the bustle of Oslo.
On Hovedøya, you’ll find monastic ruins dating back to the 12th century, nestled among lush meadows and ancient forests.
This island, the closest to the city center, also boasts diverse flora and beaches with clear waters, making it a popular spot for both history buffs and nature lovers.
Hovedøya's trails are well-marked and offer scenic views of the Oslofjord, providing a peaceful escape from urban life.
Further out, Gressholmen is another treasure in the archipelago, known for its rugged landscape and rich wildlife, including a variety of bird species.
This island was historically used for Oslo's first airport but now serves as a serene haven for hikers and picnickers. The remains of old aircraft hangars add a unique historical layer to the natural setting.
Embracing the outdoors lifestyle
As I've already said I have no excuse not to live a healthier lifestyle up here. Some good news is I've already managed to bag myself a bike from a friend who's leaving Oslo, so I can try it out before committing to an expensive new model.
My real aim for this year is to learn to ski and I’m still debating whether to go the cross-country or downhill route.
I'm told by many cross-country has an easier learning curve, and with my perfect location for accessing the trails when the snow comes, I am leaning in that direction.
What a great introduction to the fantastic environment around Oslo! One of the first things that struck me when I first went into the hills around here last summer, was how many people of so very different ages there were. And, how lovely that there was such a sense of space to be had, a real feeling of freedom!
An outdoor weekend is planned for me; enjoy yours!
My manager just told me about a nice hike from Frognerseteren to Skjennungstua where there is a nice cafe with homemade cakes. Will try to go there this or next weekend.