Tips for adult adventurers in Oestfold

M/S Ny Vigra .
Photo: INSPIRIA science center / Maryan Syversen
M/S Ny Vigra .
Photo: INSPIRIA science center / Maryan Syversen

1) Make your accommodation an attraction!

Staying in new surroundings can be an attraction in itself, and Oestfold offers an incredible variety of options to choose from! Have you explored the extensive range of campsites in the region? There’s something for everyone, whether you prefer cabins, apartments, tents, or motorhomes. Some are situated by the sea, others by lakes, canals, or near exciting attractions – the choice is yours!

Oestfold also boasts a fantastic selection of hotels across all price ranges and in attractive settings. A hotel stay or two can work wonders for both body and soul!

If you have a boat, you can explore Oestfold’s abundant offering of guest harbours. Whether you plan your boating holiday along the coast or explore the many opportunities of the Halden Canal, the selection of guest harbours is diverse and plentiful.

Scandic Brennemoen, resepsjon
© Scandic Brennemoen
Scandic Brennemoen
Fugleperspektiv av Hotell Refsnes Gods
© Raisfoto
Hotel Refsnes Gods
Utsikt fra rommet på Støtvig Hotel
© Støtvig Hotel
Støtvig Hotel

More unique accomodations

2) Oestfold for «foodies»

Are you ready to taste your way through Oestfold? There's no need to travel far to enjoy the flavours of the world! The towns of Oestfold boast a rich and varied selection of eateries, whether you prefer local dishes made with short-travelled ingredients or exotic tastes from far-off lands.

In Oestfold, we place extra emphasis on local cuisine. The best from the coast, rivers, forests, and fields, prepared by skilled hands with years of experience and warm smiles. Oestfold is a delightful destination for "foodies." Would you like to join in and savour the flavours?

In Mysen, you can sample local ingredients at La Mòss, while at the elegant Refsnes Gods, you’ll be treated to gastronomic delights in stately surroundings. Enjoy!

Matrett på blå tallerken, St. Peters Restaurant
© St. Peters Restaurant
St. Peters Restaurant
Kokk danderer mat på tallerkener på kjøkkenet til City Bar og Spiseri
© Kyle Meyr, City Bar og Spiseri
City Bar & Spiseri
Delikat salat fra Villa Mat og Mer
© Villa Mat og Mer
Villa Welhaven

3) Day trip on the water

The Oslofjord, stretching from Moss all the way down to Halden and Sponvika, offers plenty of fantastic maritime experiences. If you have a leisure boat, you can embark on various day trips to explore the islands and charming guest harbours along the coast.

If you don’t have access to a boat, there’s still plenty to enjoy on the Oslofjord via ferries or tourist boats. By the way, island hopping isn’t just reserved for the Mediterranean! With a round-trip ticket from the ferry company M/S Hollungen, you can cruise from island to island all day on Hvaler. Bicycles are a smart way to get around on Hvaler and are easy to bring on the ferries.

Båt på Haldenkanalen
© Haldenkanalen Regionalpark/Jonas Ingstad
M/S Brekke in the Halden Canal

4. Romantic treetop getaway

Did you know that Oestfold has its very own "treetop dome"? Located about a 10-minute drive from Rakkestad town centre and a 3-kilometre walk from the car park, you'll find this unique cabin nestled among the treetops.

It's the perfect place to find peace with someone special! Fall asleep under the starlit sky, wake up to the cheerful chirping of morning birds, and truly savour life.

The cabin accommodates two people and is equipped with a fully functional kitchen and toilet. There are several treetop cabins in Oestfold, including those at Vestre Kjærnes Farm in Våler and Treetop Cabins at the Border near Halden.

Tretoppdomen sett fra siden, trehytte i trærne
© Tretoppdomen / Paul Haughson
Tretoppdome
Tretopphytte blant trærne, Vestre Kjærnes Gård
© Vestre Kjærnes Gård
Tretop cabin at Vestre Kjaernes Farm

5. The enchanting Halden Canal

If you haven’t yet explored the marvellous Halden Canal, you’re in for a treat! It boasts a technical cultural landmark with three lock systems, including Brekke Locks, Europe’s tallest. Along the way, enjoy a variety of activities like paddling and climbing.

The waterway winds through stunning natural landscapes featuring sparkling lakes, whispering forests, and lush cultural scenery. The locks alone are an experience to remember.

Whether you choose a passenger boat, your own vessel, a canoe, or a kayak, you’ll get up close to the area’s nature, engineering, and history. Swimming, fishing, museums, delicious food, and vibrant culture – the Halden Canal truly has something for everyone!

Ung kvinne med hjelp klatrer i Via Ferrata Haldenkanalen
© Via Ferrata Haldenkanalen
Via Ferrata in the Halden Canal
MS Brekke i Brekke sluser i Halden.
© Veronica van Groningen
M/S Brekke in the Halden Canal
Mann og kvinne padler kano i Haldenkanalen.
© Jonas Ingstad/Haldenkanalen regionalpark
Canoeing in the Halden Canal

6. History, views, and insight – Fredriksten Fortress

If you’re interested in history, a visit to Fredriksten Fortress is almost a must! Towering above Halden’s city centre, this iconic landmark offers breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in centuries of history. For a deeper dive, you can book a knowledgeable guide who can tailor tours for families, colleagues, or groups.

Enjoy a historical light show, explore the fascinating fortress museum, savour delicious food in the former commander’s residence, and even stay overnight where the barracks once stood. Fredriksten is also the venue for numerous fantastic events – perhaps there will be some this year too?

Guiding Fredriksten festning
Guiding at Fredriksten Fortress
Fredriksten festning
© Erik Sandersen
Fredriksten Fortress and the clock tower