Oslo Fjord
Explore the idyllic islets in the inner Oslo Fjord, just a short ferry ride from the city centre.
The 100-km-long Oslo fjord is the scenic gem of the Oslo area. In the summer, the fjord is buzzing with life and activity. You can go swimming, hike among the colourful cabins on the islands or glide over the waves on a SUP-board. Read more about island hopping in the Oslo Fjord.
In the winter months, you can still go for a swim – but you may want to step into one of the many fjordside saunas before and after.
Note: Do NOT miss the last ferry back from the islands to the city centre! There is no water taxi service available in Oslo. The Norwegian Society for Sea’s main purpose is to save lives at sea and help people in need. On rare occasions, the Norwegian Society for Sea Rescue can transport people back to the city centre but the fee for this journey will be a minimum of 5.000 NOK.
Medieval history at Hovedøya island
Each of the islands in the innermost part of the fjord has its own characteristics and history. At Hovedøya you can glance at the busy city while relaxing on the beach. As well as exploring the old monastery ruins or see the remains of the cannons and powder magazines from the 19th century. Right in the middle of the island you’ll find a large grassy field perfect for ball games and other fun summer activities. Klosterkroa café is open during the summer and offers Toast Skagen, prawns, Norwegian waffles other delicious lunch dishes.
Camping on Langøyene island
Langøyene island is the only island where you’re allowed to spend the night in a tent (for maximum two successive nights), as long as you’re following the rules of conduct. The northern side of the island is where you’re allowed to camp. Langøyene island was originally two separate islands which was eventually connected with a grassy meadow between them. On the island you’ll find an elongated sandy beach, a kiosk, toilets, and a nudist area.
Seafood and swimming
Gressholmen, Rambergøya and Heggholmen are three connected islands with excellent swimming spots on the eastern side of Gressholmen island and on the southern part of Rambergøya island. Gressholmen Kro is a seasonal café and restaurant that is open during summer, and offers delicious dishes like oysters, prawns, mussels and chicken wings. At Heggholmen island you’ll find Heggholmen Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the inner Oslo Fjord.
Minigolf and diving on the “cabin islands”
The Nakholmen and Lindøya islands are known for their many summer cabins but can be visited by non-residents as well. Nakholmen island has a small beach on the southwestern part of the island, equipped with a bathing jetty, diving board and a swimming raft. On Lindøya, swimming is advised only at the designated spots – Kjøkkenodden and Badestadion – due to soft, sinking ground along the rest of the shoreline. Both islands are equipped with convenience stores. At Nakholmen there is a grassy field perfect for sporty outdoor activities, while Lindøya has a minigolf court and a football pitch.
Bleikøya has no suitable bathing spots; however, there are several lovely walking trails to explore. Bleikøykalven is an important nesting area for seabirds, and the northern side is a nature reserve.
Bring a picnic basket or enjoy a snack from the charming cafés on the islands. Hop on board a fjord cruise and enjoy the scenery. Whatever you end up doing, you will not regret exploring the Oslo Fjord.