Oslofjord Islands: Nature Walks, Ferries & Village Trails

Summary

Hop ferries to Oslofjord islands for forest walks, abbey ruins and cozy villages

You’ll hop between Oslofjord islands by ferry with a local guide, exploring ancient monastery ruins and cozy cabin villages along forest trails. Expect shared moments over hot drinks or picnic lunches on quiet beaches—plus plenty of time to soak in fjord views and local stories. If you’re after gentle adventure and real Norwegian calm, this day trip is for you.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect the water around Oslo to look so inviting. We met our guide at the harbor—she had this way of pointing out tiny details, like the way locals tie up their boats or which wildflowers were edible (not that I tried them). The first ferry ride was breezy and a bit noisy with chatter from families and old men with fishing rods. I kept thinking about how close we still were to the city, but it already felt far away.

On the first island, we wandered through pine woods that smelled sharp and clean, almost medicinal. Our guide told us about the old monastery ruins—over 900 years old—and I could actually feel the coolness of the stone when I leaned against it. There was this weird mix of silence and distant gulls echoing off the water. Someone in our group brought cinnamon buns; we all shared them on a bench overlooking the fjord. It sounds small but honestly, that’s what stuck with me.

The next stop was a village full of these wooden cabins painted every color you can imagine—yellow, green, even pink. People waved as we passed; one woman was hanging laundry outside in thick socks and sandals (which made me laugh because my feet were freezing). In summer they say you can swim here—the guide said the water gets “surprisingly warm,” though I’m not sure I believe him. In colder months like ours, we just huddled for hot drinks on a little beach instead. The whole thing felt quietly special, not flashy or forced.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Island hopping and nature exploration

• Take ferry to ancient monastery
• Explore monastery and nature preserve
• Visit nature and bird sanctuary
• Learn about Oslo's first airport
• Travel to Cabin Island
• Stroll through village of wooden cabins
• Picnic on cosy beach

Top questions

How long is the Oslo Nature Walks: Island hopping tour?

From April to August it's 4-4.5 hours (3 islands); from September to March it's 3-3.5 hours (2 or 3 islands depending on weather).

Are ferry tickets included in the tour price?

Yes, public ferry tickets are included with your guided tour.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No lunch is provided; you're encouraged to bring your own picnic lunch.

Can I swim during the Oslofjord island tour?

Yes, in summer months you can swim in the fjord—bring a swimsuit if you’d like.

What should I wear or bring for this island hopping tour?

Good walking shoes or trail shoes are recommended as paths are dirt, gravel and stones; bring lunch and a swimsuit in summer.

Are children allowed on this nature walk?

The tour isn’t recommended for children under 10 years old.

Is there hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet your guide at the harbor in Oslo.

What happens if it rains or is cold?

The itinerary may adjust based on weather and boat schedules; in colder months you get a hot drink stop instead of a picnic.

What’s included

Your day includes public ferry tickets between Oslofjord islands plus a guided walking tour with stories about local history and nature. You’ll have time for a picnic lunch (bring your own), or enjoy hot drinks on chilly days before heading back to Oslo by boat.