Summer in Oslo is the best. When the sun is out from April to September, I join the other locals by going out as much as possible and enjoying the sunshine as we know it can be gone at any moment. It’s just in the nature of us Oslonians.

One of the many activities people enjoy doing is going swimming, either by the harbor or at one of the several nice places along the main river and heart of the city, Akerselva. The river that separates the city into two parts runs from Maridalsvannet all the way down to Bjørvika and into the sea. One of my favorite places to go for a fresh bath is in the area of Nydalen, this vibrant and fairly new residential area in the north of the city.

Following Akerselva from the city center up to Nydalen, it’s a great 25-minute hike along the river. The bathing place in Nydalen will offer you a naturally designed bathing spot with water constantly running through. Be ready for a cold but pleasant experience among other locals, both families and individuals, who enjoy the opportunity to go for a refresher in their backyard. Close by, there are also several nice spots to enjoy some food or drinks after the wet activities, and my suggestion would be to check out Nydalen Bryggeri & Spiseri, perfectly situated next to the river.