Friday, August 31, 2018

Vettakollen: The Best View of Oslo!

An Uphill Trek to Vettakollen Viewpoint

The pathway ascending up to Vettakollen.

Beginning Adventures
During our first week of uni, also known as, "buddy week," we went on a short hike to Vettakollen, which is known for its great views of Oslo.  Reaching the trail is easy by taking the T-bane (metro) line #1 towards Frognerseteren and getting off at the stop named "Vettakollen."  From there you can access many different hiking trails.  The hike up to the Vettakollen viewpoint wasn't too long, only 1.2 km or 0.75 miles, but it took awhile because the trail is somewhat steep.  

Looking towards the ski jumps in Holmenkollen, Oslo.

To the Top!
On our hike up, we passed by the ski jumps of Holmenkollen peaking out in the distance. Holmenkollen has hosted many past competitions, including the FIS Nordic Combined World Cup and the FIS Ski Jumping World Cup. Today there is also a ski museum and the possibility to go atop the ski towers. 

At the top of Vettakollen.

What a View
Vettakollen is located between Sognsvann and Holmenkollen and has a great view of the city and Oslo Fjord. After reaching the top, we rested and took in the views of Oslo.

Looking towards Oslo.

Snack Time
Normally in Norway there are lots of berries during this time of year, however, it has been an unusually hot and dry summer (many days were 80+ F or 27+ C). Sadly, there were no refreshing berries we could eat, but we did get to rest at the top and try the Norwegian version of a Kit Kat called a Kvikk Lunsj (which translates to "Quick Lunch"). The Kvikk Lunsj's chocolate is slightly less sweet than a Kit Kat's and tasted delicious. I can see why people would want to eat it for lunch!


View of Oslo from Vettakollen.

The Oslo Expanse
Though I wasn't familiar with Oslo to point out where my neighborhood was or see many buildings in the city center, it was great to look out and see the entire expanse of the city and fjord below.

Looking out at the Oslo Fjord.

Great Hiking & Views!
Easy to get to, the viewpoint at Vettakollen is well worth the trek. It's a beautiful place to take in the sunset, or simply enjoy the views of Oslo and the surrounding nature.

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