What can we do in Østfold during the winter holidays?
Need tips for activities for all ages? Østfold offers experiences and attractions for the entire family, both outdoors and indoors. Opening hours may vary, so we recommend checking before you go.
Excitement and adventure in Sarpsborg
The sunny city of Østfold offers plenty of winter fun for children and young people. Here, you’ll find everything from thrills at Kjerringåsen Alpine Centre to fun activities at Superland and the INSPIRIA Science Center in Grålum.
Stay at the family-friendly Quality Hotel Sarpsborg, where everything is tailored for both young and old. The hotel features a large water park and a nine-hole mini-golf course. Superland includes an indoor area with a water park and various activities, including a play labyrinth for the youngest visitors.
At the Svev Trampoline Park in Sarpsborg, you can jump high while laughter and excitement fill the air.
The depths of the ocean take centre stage at the INSPIRIA Science Center on weekends. Learn about the secrets of the sea, unleash your creativity in the workshop areas, discover the monsters of the deep, draw fish that swim in a giant digital aquarium, and much more.
Join the search for water in the universe with a guided planetarium journey or take a spectacular "dive" beneath the ocean surface among vibrant corals and thriving marine life in the dome cinema.
Kjerringåsen Alpine Centre is Østfold's largest ski resort, so let’s hope for colder days this winter break, and get ready to strap on your skis.
A visit to the Borgarsyssel Museum, featuring special activities for children during the winter holiday, could be the perfect choice.
More things to do in Sarpsborg
Active Winter in Indre Oestfold
There’s a wide variety of activities to fill your holiday days in Inner Østfold, and the great thing is that most of them are nearby, whether in the town centres or amidst beautiful outdoor settings in the forests and countryside.
Family-friendly winter holiday activities can be found at both Scandic Brennemoen and Rømskog Spa and Resort. These locations offer great activity options for all ages, with excellent hiking areas, and, weather permitting, ice skating rinks and ski tracks in the winter.
Fun and Games
Indre Oestfold offers a wide range of activities during winter. Regardless of the weather, you can always visit Oestfoldbadet in Askim, where the temperatures are pleasant all year round.
Also, consider stopping by the trampoline park Sprett in Askim or checking out the bowling alley, which boasts eight lanes.
If the weather allows, there are plenty of opportunities to try both cross-country skiing and ice skating. The region also offers a wide selection of hiking lodges to explore.
Relaxation and Wellness in Moss
Unwind and recharge with a few relaxing winter days in Moss. There are plenty of opportunities for those looking to disconnect, and the town also offers a varied cultural scene, whether you stay in the town centre or visit the idyllic Galleri F 15 on Jeløya.
At Støtvig Hotel, the whole family can enjoy an eventful weekend. The hotel offers something for everyone: playrooms, bowling alleys, shuffleboard, and its own burger restaurant. Don’t miss the hotel’s spa, featuring both indoor and outdoor pools.
If you wish to stay for a few days while exploring the area, you can book a stay at the stately Hotel Refsnes Gods or take a stroll around beautiful Jeløya.
Hiking opportunities in Halden
In the fortress town of Halden, beautiful forest and hiking areas are just a short drive from the town centre. For those planning an overnight stay, Halden offers excellent hotel facilities and a variety of activities, whether you're travelling as adults or with children and teens.
Fredriksten Fortress is always open, offering the chance to experience the historic light show, projected onto the inner fortress walls. This impressive display features video, animations, sound, and lighting effects.
At Tistedalen Ski Centre, weather permitting, you’ll find excellent opportunities for skiing and sledding in well-maintained tracks. Halden also boasts several illuminated trails and sports cabins just minutes from the centre. These are open on multiple days during the winter holidays and offer warm drinks, waffles, and chocolate to visitors.
Urban life in Fredrikstad and Hvaler
Fredrikstad offers delightful winter days, whether there’s snow or not. As Østfold's largest municipality, it boasts a wide selection of shops, cafés, and restaurants. If you’re looking to escape the city for a while, a few days on Hvaler might be the perfect choice. The islands provide excellent hiking opportunities for the whole family.
The Old Town in Fredrikstad is always worth a visit, with its charming small shops, galleries, and cafés. At the Old Town Model Railway Centre, you can marvel at a 400-square-metre display featuring tracks, landscapes, and various Märklin trains.
At the Visitor Centre for Ytre Hvaler National Park, you'll find fascinating exhibitions, including an authentic skeleton of a porpoise and a dolphin.
Discover what’s happening across Østfold
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed holiday or relaxing days to recharge, Østfold has a wealth of activities and events to enjoy during the winter break. We hope you have a wonderful holiday with us!