Oslofjord Island Hopping Nature Walk, Oslo

Escape the city and discover a different side of Oslo on a guided island-hopping adventure across the Oslofjord. Traveling aboard the city's all-electric public ferries, you'll check out two distinctive islands while enjoying scenic vistas as you cruise through calm waters past forested shorelines and colorful cabins. Explore Gressholmen, home to a nature reserve abundant in differing plant life and nature trails, then continue to either Lindøya or Nakholmen, where charming wooden cottages dot flower-lined paths. Weather permitting, there'll be time to enjoy a picnic and swim in the Oslofjord if there's interest.

After meeting your guide at the Oslo quay, you'll board one of the city's electric ferries alongside local commuters and residents for a relaxing cruise into the Oslofjord. As you leave the urban waterfront behind, you'll enjoy wide views of green islands, traditional summer cottages, and the rolling hills surrounding the fjord. Your first stop is Gressholmen, where you'll learn about the island's past as the base for Norway's first major airport (back in 1927), and the nature reserve in its northern area.

The last leg of the hop-on-hop-off ferry excursion takes you to one of the cabin islands, either Lindøya or Nakholmen. With flower-lined pathways, these quaint islands come alive in the summer as many Osloites retreat there for extended stays. In the fall, the vibes change; they're quieter, allowing travelers to appreciate the peace and autumnal foliage. Don't forget your swimsuit when traveling during the warmer months; a cold dip in the Oslofjord is an invigorating experience!

Note that while some islands have shops, it's recommended to bring a packed lunch for a picnic.