Oslo is tucked in between the hills and the sea and during the summer the locals gravitate down towards the water, where they can sunbathe, eat, drink and generally be beautiful. But that’s not to say the waterfront isn’t accessible in the winter, in fact the low sunlight and cold days add an extra dimension.
If you want to experience the whole span of seaside life in Oslo then the recently opened Oslo Promenade is a winner. It’s a 9km marked path and covers the center of town, from the rich suburbs of Frogner to the formerly industrial docks on the east. There are 14 posts in all, bright orange industrial containers with information on the area and some old photos. I recommend starting west by Frognerkilen and working your way towards downtown where you can stop for some food or a beer before continuing out past the Opera to Vippetangen and Sørenga. The eastern tip takes you a bit into no-man’s land (and up a hill) so most of the time I stop at Sørenga.
This is a great walk in winter but it can be bitterly cold (and windy) by the water so wrap up warm and be sure to stop for a hot chocolate along the way.
Combining exercise with being sightseeing – now you are really a local!
