Halden – Oslo

From fortress towns to the capital – cycling the southeast coastline.

The ride from Halden to Oslo is a varied introduction to Norway’s Coastal Route, combining historic towns, quiet country roads, forests and stretches close to the sea. Starting near the Swedish border, the route takes you north through Østfold before following the Oslofjord all the way to the heart of the capital.

The journey begins in Halden, dominated by the impressive Fredriksten Fortress and with Rød Manor just a short ride away. From here, quiet rural roads lead through farmland and historic landscapes, with opportunities to visit places such as the Gjellestad Viking Ship Mound and Hafslund Manor. A beautiful stretch along the Glommastien follows the river towards Fredrikstad, where the cobbled streets, historic buildings and cafés of the Old Town make a natural stop along the way.

While the official route crosses the Oslofjord from Moss to Horten, our route continues north to Oslo before heading south along the western side of the fjord. On the way towards the capital, the landscape alternates between forests, farmland, small coastal towns and paths close to the fjord. There are several opportunities for a swim along the way. The route combines paved roads and gravel, with gentle hills, some sections with traffic and many kilometres of peaceful cycling. The final stretch into Oslo follows a dedicated cycle path along the fjord before reaching the city centre – a memorable finish to the first stage of Kystruta.