Fredrikstad and Hvaler are two generous neighbours that complement each other: culture and urban energy on one side of the fence, sea and coast on the other. Together they form the perfect destination – all year round and in all sorts of weather. Here are some tips to enjoy Fredrikstad and Hvaler.
1) Drive a train at Gamlebyen Model Train Center
The centre is the largest in Scandinavia. It’s packed with fun – a whole world of tiny trains, cars, houses, people and landscapes, all fashioned with a dash of humour. There is a miniature model of Gamlebyen. Open at weekends and in school holidays.
2) Take a dip
Fredrikstad and Hvaler are great for swimmers, whether you choose the outdoor pools at Kongsten with its diving tower, paddling pool and water slide, or one of countless beaches. Kroksand on Hvaler and Foten in Fredrikstad have both been awarded the international certificate of quality, the Blue Flag.
3) Boat trips and island hopping
The coastal islands of Fredrikstad and Hvaler should be seen from a boat. From Skjærhalden, take a trip to Strømstad on Vesleø II, or go island hopping with the local ferry. Around Hvaler that’s a great experience, you will be spoilt for choice.
4) Play crazy golf in a model of Gamlebyen, the historic old town
Just outside Gamlebyen is Aktivitetsbyen Gamle Fredrikstad. The new Adventure crazy golf course has 12 holes that take you past models of all the Old Town’s most famous historic buildings. Will you manage to get past the cannons on the fortress wall on the way to Kongsten Fort? You can also try your skill at Football Golf.
5) Visit the best-preserved fortress town in Northern Europe
Wander the ramparts of Gamlebyen, Fredrikstad’s Old Town. Explore the moats, cannons, historic buildings, shops, galleries, restaurants and cafés. Remember: the shops in the Old Town are open on Sundays all year.
6) Explore The Glomma Trail by bike
By bike along Glommastien (The Glomma Trail) there are great places to stop: Roald Amundsen’s Birthplace, the Hans Nielsen Hauge Museum, Hafslund Manor Farm, Sarpefossen waterfall and Oldtidsruta.
7) Visit Norway’s first marine national park
Ytre Hvaler National Park is Norway’s first marine national park, and has its Visitor Centre at Skjærhalden. Here there are fascinating exhibitions describing the flora and fauna of the national park, especially the marine life underwater. The centre has also a Lilliput Centre in Skjærhalden harbour with an activity programme for children all summer.
8) Discover our ancient history
Go time-travelling along Oldtidsruta (The Ancient Trail). This round-trip takes you to Norway’s largest collection of heritage sites from the Bronze and Early Iron Ages, with burial mounds, stone circles, megaliths and rock carvings. Visit also Fredrikstad Museum, Elingaard Manor Farm and Kystmuseet on Hvaler – history for all ages.
9) Camera! Lights! Action! – at Norway’s best cinema
Fredrikstad Cinema has been named the best in the country for several years running.
10) A river cruise
With the City Ferry you get a miniature cruise on the Glomma river, with stops at Gamlebyen, Isegran, Kråkerøy, Sentrum and Gressvik.
