Holmenkollen

The best views in Oslo

Word to the wise: If you're visiting in winter, don't forget to bring good shoes and warm clothes.

Talk of the town: The wooden Holmenkollen Chapel is a modern replica of the original 1913 church, destroyed in an arson attack by a notorious Norwegian heavy metal musician.
When busy Osloites are in need of fresh air and tranquillity they hop on the metro for 20 minutes to the top of Holmenkollen, a hill with sublime views of the Oslo Fjord.

The main attraction is the magnificent steel ski jump – and its accompanying museum - but Holmenkollen is also the gateway to acres of hiking and ski trails through pristine forest. The area is dotted with pretty timber-clad restaurants, hotels and the palatial homes of Oslo's upper class. Winter may be Holmenkollen's busiest season, but it's just as beautiful in the summer when hiking, cycling, canoeing and fishing are all popular.

Take Metro 1 towards Frognerseteren, alight at Holmenkollen and follow the signs to the ski jump.