5 min read
Published 17. February 2024
5 facts about the Oslofjord
Norway’s fjords are famous for their breathtaking vistas, but did you know that one awaits right in the heart of Oslo? You can access the 100-km Oslofjorden from Aker Brygge, for a unique taste of Norwegian coastal living with an urban edge.
Here’s 5 things you should know about the Oslofjord:
Its beauty inspired Roald Dahl
The Oslofjorden’s serene beauty enchanted Norwegian children’s author Roald Dahl. In his autobiography, Dahl wrote, “Unless you have sailed down the Oslofjord… on a tranquil summer’s day, you cannot imagine the sensation of absolute peace and beauty that surrounds you”.
You can visit all year long
While it gets popular in the summer months, the Oslofjord is also great to visit in the winter: due to the warm currents from the Gulf of Mexico, the water temperature in Oslofjord is temperate, with some of the warmest and sunniest weather in the country.
It’s rich in wildlife
Because of its temperate climate, the Oslofjord supports a variety of marine life, including cod, haddock, and mackerel, making it a popular spot for fishing. Additionally, the fjord's islands and shores offer habitats for deer and a range of smaller mammals and insects. However, like many natural habitats around the world, the Oslofjord faces challenges from pollution, climate change, and human activity, which threaten its biodiversity and ecological balance.
There’s so many places to explore nearby
Oslofjord passes through picturesque towns and islets, many of them with great cultural significance. From the fortified old town of Fredrikstad and the medieval abbey ruins in Hovedøya, to the lighthouse at Steilene islands, and the colorful cottages at Lindøya, there’s always something mesmerizing to gaze upon!
It’s a paradise for water activities enthusiasts
Whether swimming in the sandy beaches of Langøyene, diving from the diving tower at Ingierstrand beach or kayaking and paddle-boarding, Oslofjord will spoil you with all the ways you can enjoy its waters. Wear swimming shoes, to avoid stepping on mussels!
