Norway

Stunning scenery, quintessential charm and great art define the small town of Kragerø on Norway’s southern coast boasts outsized appeal. Surrounded by freshwater lakes and a spectacular archipelago of more than 490 islands and skerries, it is a destination for boating, fishing, canoeing and swimming as well as cycling. Once an important seafaring community, Kragerø preserves that heritage in its inner harbor area, where the marina, promenades and piers, along with outdoor concerts and waterfront dining, create a lively ambience.

Oslo, Norway’s capital, lies on the country’s southern coast at the head of the Oslofjord. It is at this headland that you’ll find the famous Oslo Opera House, its roof sloping toward the waterfront. Two parks not to be missed are Vigeland Park, the world’s largest sculpture park made by a single artist, and Ekebergparken, a sculpture and heritage park surrounded by beautiful scenery and spectacular lookout points.

To get an overview of this charming town on Norway’s southern coast, make the trek up to Risørflekken, the famous landmark used by sailors to navigate their way into the harbor. It can be seen 12 nautical miles from land. Risør is known as a town of wooden houses thanks to its preservation of these quaint and historic structures. Wood also figures prominently in the town’s main industry, the building of wooden boats, which you can learn about on a visit to their cultural center.