the water
The Oslofjord and its islands: a short guide
What the water you are dining on is, and why Norwegians call it a fjord.
Book the Oslofjord dinner cruise ↗Islands in the inner fjord
| Island | Known for |
|---|---|
| Hovedøya | Monastery ruins |
| Gressholmen | Its rabbits |
| Nakholmen | Cabins at the water's edge |
| Bleikøya | Cabins at the water's edge |
| Lindøya | Cabins at the water's edge |
| Langøyene | Camping and a beach |
How long it is
The Oslofjord runs about 120 km. It begins at the village of Bonn, stretches north to Oslo, and then curves east and south until it meets the Skagerrak.
Not a fjord in the strict sense
Geologists do not count it as a fjord, but in Norwegian the word can refer to many kinds of waterway, including inlets like this one.
The inner islands
Each island in the innermost part has its own identity and history. They can be reached by the Oslo boats that leave from Aker Brygge.
Viking ships
Three of the best-preserved Viking ships were unearthed on the fjord's eastern and western shores, including the Gokstad ship.
A busy waterway
More than 40% of Norway's population lives within 45 minutes' drive of the fjord, and it carries the country's busiest ferry and cargo traffic. Your electric boat shares it with both.
Munch's fjord
Edvard Munch had a cottage and studio at Åsgårdstrand on the fjord, and the water appears in several of his paintings, The Scream among them.