If you're thinking about a long weekend break this spring, look no further than Norway's capital Oslo. Not just the Norwegian centre for trade and industry, but also a popular tourist destination, with its green hills and mountains, and the famous fjord by the Nesodden peninsula lies to the south. Soak up Norway's wonderful culture in some of its many galleries and museums, or simply enjoy a walk in the park and admire the scenery, there's something for everyone in Oslo.
Frogner Park is in the bourough of Frogner, and contains a large collection of Oslo's famous sculptures designed by Gustav Vigeland. With over 200 granite and bronze sculptures and relics to famous Norwegians, the park is not to be missed especially if it's a sunny day. A lush, green area, the park is a perfect setting for a romantic stroll with it's many bridges and fountains but it's also a great place for a picnic lunch or a space to play ball with the kids.
Tøyen Park is also a great place to spend a sunny day, but if the weather turns bad, nearby Munch Museum is an interesting place to explore Norway's rich heritage for a few hours. Dedicated to the life and works of Edvard Munch who painted many popular works such as The Scream, the museum was opened in 1963 which would have been his 100th birthday. Today however, it is home to most of his work, including over 1, 000 paintings, 18, 000 prints and over 2, 000 books. The Scream itself was subject to much controversy, when in 2004, four thieves broke in and stole it, causing minor damages, but the paintings were later recovered by police, and now resides in The Oslo National Gallery, but many versions are held at the Munch and they are definitely worth a look.
As the day draws in, this is a perfect opportunity to try some of Oslo's many fine dining restaurants and bars. Norweigan cuisine is very reflective of the landscape and materials they have growing around them with many of their dishes involving fish and game meat. The largest Norwegian food export in the past has been "tørrfisk", dried codfish, others include smoked salmon "gravlaks" (salt and sugar cured salmon), "Rakfisk" (fermented trout) and shellfish feature heavily in the typical Norwegians diet also. When it comes to desert, the Norse have it covered. Comprising mostly of berries and fruit, strawberries, blueberries and apples are popular, in particular apple cake. "Krumkake" is thinly rolled sponge filled with whipped cream and can be found on most Norwegian dinner tables and meringues are a firm favourite. With all this fine food on offer, you'll be lucky if you make it back to your Oslo hotel on time to catch your flight home!
Sean Burke writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
