10 tips for a summers day in Oestfold
Photo: Ann-Kristin Johnsen / Ankis Hobbyfoto
Photo: Ann-Kristin Johnsen / Ankis Hobbyfoto
Summer in Østfold offers many exciting and wonderful experiences. We’ve gathered ten things we think you shouldn’t miss!

1. Cruise up (or down) the Halden Canal
The Halden Canal stretches from Halden in the south to Skulerud (Akershus) in the north and is a stunning tourist attraction with its beautiful and partially untouched nature. Enjoy a journey in your own boat or canoe, or join a trip on the MS Brekke from Halden (Tistedal) for a unique experience on the Halden Canal. The trip passes through Northern Europe’s tallest locks at Brekke. The DS Engebret Soot, based in Ørje, is available for charter for up to 30 people.

2. Experience Fredriksten fortress in Halden
Fredriksten Fortress towers over the town of Halden and invites you to an exciting exploration among powder towers, magazines, secret passageways, and ramparts. At Fredriksten, you can take the family on a ghost hunt to search for "The White Lady," try GeoCaching, join guided tours every Sunday (in July and August), visit the museum, and enjoy fantastic cultural events.

3. Play a round of golf
Østfold is a paradise for golf enthusiasts, boasting more than ten golf courses ranging from 6- to 18-hole layouts. Sarpsborg is home to one of Norway's oldest golf courses, Borregaard Golf Club. Fredriksten Golf Park offers scenic surroundings near the fortress in Halden. Fredrikstad and Hvaler provide coastal golfing opportunities, including a new course in historic surroundings near Gamlebyen. Mørk Golf in Spydeberg has hosted the professional Ecco Tour several years in a row and is a complete golf facility. Check out the full list of courses here.

4. Dive into the water!
Østfold offers endless opportunities for water-based activities, from large, modern indoor swimming facilities and easily accessible city beaches to secluded rocky outcrops and small forest lakes. The coastline stretches for miles, and if you have a boat, you can discover your very own private islet. Learn more about swimming spots in Østfold here.

5. Stroll along the ramparts in Gamlebyen, Fredrikstad
Have you ever tried strolling along the ramparts? Gamlebyen in Fredrikstad is perfect for a relaxed summer day. Take your time to explore the area with its ramparts, cannons, and historic buildings. Gamlebyen is a vibrant neighbourhood with shops, galleries, and residents living in restored wooden houses. Peek into a courtyard and visit Fredrikstad Museum or the Glass Studio. If you get thirsty or hungry, stop by one of Gamlebyen's restaurants or cafés.

6. Experience nature by canoe or kayak
Indre Østfold is particularly suited for wonderful nature experiences and overnight stays in tents or shelters. Read more about nature experiences in Indre Østfold here. Vansjø in Moss, with its islets, islands, and channels, is ideal for canoeing or kayaking. Or why not try kayaking in the archipelago?

7. Island hopping in the archipelago
You don’t have to go to Greece to hop from island to island by boat. The Hvaler ferries take you on a beautiful journey through the Hvaler archipelago. The ferries depart from Skjærhalden on Kirkøy with frequent daily departures. If you have your own boat, even more islands and islets await you in Østfold’s stunning archipelago.

8. Stroll along the waterfront
The harbour in Halden town centre and the riverside quays in Fredrikstad's city centre are bathed in sunshine and buzzing with life during summer. Here, you'll find a vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, live music, concerts, and entertaining revues.

9. Attend a festival or concert
Oestfold’s cultural calendar is packed with treats this summer, offering something for everyone—whether you enjoy theatre, Viking markets, singalongs, food, or cars. Check out the complete overview of summer events in Østfold here.

10. Play and Learn in Oestfold
Oestfold has plenty to offer this summer, especially for the little ones. Join the Museum Relay with Ømus at Østfoldmuseene, where children can take part in exciting tasks at seven different museums, earn "wages," and win prizes. At Inspiria Science Centre, there are fascinating activities for all visitors! Bounce sky-high on the Bungee trampoline and enjoy outdoor fun with play and cycling in the fantastic activity park. Indoors, you can experience science shows, a journey through the universe in the planetarium, and much more.