Østfold, Administrative region in southeastern Norway
Østfold is a former administrative region in southeastern Norway that stretches along the Oslofjord coast from Moss to the Swedish border. The area combines coastal zones, wetlands, forests, and farmland that create different habitats for plants and wildlife.
Archaeological finds at Gjellestad revealed a Viking ship burial in 2018, alongside ancient burial mounds and longhouses that documented early settlement patterns. These discoveries provide key evidence of continuous habitation in the region from ancient times through the Viking era.
The municipalities maintain Norwegian traditions through local folk music performances, craft exhibitions, and seasonal festivals celebrating regional heritage across multiple venues.
Ferry services connect the mainland to the Hvaler islands, providing access to beaches and hiking trails across the coastal area. The Halden Canal serves as a hub for boating activities and water sports opportunities throughout the year.
The Halden Canal contains the Brekke lock system, an engineering achievement with the tallest lock mechanism in Northern Europe. This construction allows boats to navigate across significant elevation changes and represents an example of historical industrial innovation.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
