5 Favourite Summer Walks in Oslo (Plus a Local Bonus Secret)
Oslo is surrounded by lush forests, hidden swimming coves and peaceful trails that make escaping the city incredibly easy. While I adore the city centre, some of my all-time favourite summer moments happen just beyond the tramlines and cafés. Here are five beautiful walks and hikes just outside the city centre that offer fresh air, forest silence, and fjord views — plus one secret bonus trail that’s close to my heart.
1. Coastal Walk Around Malmøya (via Bekkelagsbadet and Ormøya)
This is a true summer gem, especially on a sunny day. Begin your walk at Mailand bus stop (Bus 85 from the city), and, after an optional swim at Bekkelagsbadet, follow the water along Ormøya, a lovely little island connected by a bridge, before heading across the next bridge to Malmøya.
There’s a circular coastal path around the island, dotted with little beaches and shaded forest paths. It’s quiet, local, and full of natural charm. Don't miss Hei Solvik for a breezy lunch — this seaside café is a must.
You can end your walk at Malmøya bus stop, or if you’ve still got energy, retrace your steps along the water for a second round of sea air.
2. Forest Loop from Sandbakken to Eriksvann
For a peaceful woodland loop, head into Østmarka and start your walk from Sandbakken utfartsparkering (you can also catch Bus 550 to Brokkenhus and walk in from there). This trail winds through tall pine forest, past quiet lakes, and leads you to Eriksvann, a great picnic spot with calm water views and a few swimming spots if you're feeling brave.
You can bring your own lunch or treat yourself to a simple homemade meal or waffle at Sandbakken Sportsstue at the end of the loop. It’s open on weekends and during school holidays.
This loop is an easy-to-moderate hike that suits most fitness levels and is especially nice on cooler days.
3. Hvervenbukta Coastal Loop
One of the most beautiful seaside walks just south of the city, Hvervenbukta offers sandy beaches, swimming spots, and fantastic views of the Oslofjord. Catch Bus 83 or 80E to Fiskevollen, and you’re right at the water’s edge.
Follow the circular route around the bay and enjoy a summer swim, or just dip your toes in the water. If you’re visiting in winter, this spot is equally beautiful, with sauna and ice swimming facilities for the brave.
Anne på landet is the perfect place to stop for a coffee and something sweet (or savoury). It’s cosy, relaxed, and always full of happy locals.
4. Bjørnsjøhelvete Loop in Nordmarka
This is the longest and most challenging walk on the list — but it’s also the most spectacular. Catch Bus 51 to Hammeren or park at Hammeren parkering, then set off on a 15.1 km loop through the heart of Nordmarka.
The trail takes you past quiet forest paths, ridgelines with sweeping views, and of course the highlight: the suspension bridge over Bjørnsjøhelvete. The name sounds dramatic (literally “Bear Lake Hell”), and the views live up to it. The bridge spans a narrow gorge with rushing water below and is a thrilling yet safe crossing.
Bring a packed lunch, or make a detour to Ullevålseter or Bjørnholt for a classic forest café meal (think waffles, soup, or a cinnamon bun with cocoa). This loop is best for those with a general level of fitness and a love for proper day hikes.
5. Vettakollen Viewpoint Walk
A short and rewarding favourite! Take the T-bane (metro) to Vettakollen Station and follow the well-marked trail up to Vettakollen, one of the best viewpoints over Oslo.
It’s a steep-ish climb (especially near the top), but the trail is manageable and very popular with locals. Once you reach the top, you’re treated to panoramic views of the city, the fjord, and surrounding hills. It’s a stunning spot for sunrise or sunset, and you’ll often see people relaxing with a thermos or sketchbook.
You can either head back the same way or continue on the trail system into Sognsvann or Frognerseteren if you want a longer day out.
Bonus: Oldtidsveien (“The Ancient Road”) from Hauketo to Grønliåsen Fire Tower
This one is special to me — it runs through the forest I grew up in and remains one of my secret favourite walks.
From Hauketo Station, walk up Hauketoveien past the little farm and nursery, then enter the woods at Grønliåsen. Here you’ll find Oldtidsveien, an ancient trail with Stone Age to Viking Age burial cairns (or gravrøyser in Norwegian). The path winds through quiet woodland, with views over the forest and all the way to the fjord on clear days.
In late summer, the trail is filled with wild blueberries. Wildlife is common — birds, squirrels, deer, and occasionally even moose or foxes. At the end of the trail, Branntårnet (the Fire Lookout Tower) offers a perfect picnic stop with panoramic forest views.
There’s something timeless and grounding about this walk — maybe because it blends history, memory, and nature in such a quiet, local way. This is another walk that is great year-round, as long as it’s not too icy.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re visiting Oslo or have lived here for years, these walks are a great reminder that nature is never far away. Pack a snack, grab your walking shoes, and let the trails do the rest. Happy walking!