Mjøsa is the biggest lake in Norway, and the lovely town of Hamar stands on its banks. Spend a few days here to take advantage of the many outdoor activity options afforded by the lake and the surrounding countryside, to gain insight into the agricultural life of Norway, and to choose from a wide selection of fascinating tourist attractions to visit.
Get familiar with the history of the area by paying a visit to the Hedmarksmuseet, which was once named the most beautiful museum in the world by Travel + Leisure magazine. Start in the Viking period and learn about regional history right up to the present day. Included in the museum grounds are the ruins of Hamar Cathedral, which is around 850 years old. The stone remains of the building are encased in a vast protective structure made from glass, making visiting them a wonderfully strange experience.
The Norsk Jernbanemuseum (Norwegian Railway Museum) and the open-air Migrasjonsmuseet (Migration Museum) are also great options for relaxed family days out. However, many more activities are also available for days when you want to move around a bit more. Bring your kids to the Ankerskogen swimming pool to go wild among its waterslides and multiple pools. Or, get back to nature with a swim in the lake instead.
Alternatively, rent a kayak or a boat to stay relatively dry while you explore the lake. Join the many locals who fish here regularly. Or see this beautiful landmark in a truly memorable fashion as you step aboard the Skibladner. This is the oldest paddle steamer in the world still in regular service. Try to imagine sailing down this same peaceful route in 1856, when the boat first launched.
Fly into Oslo Airport and you can reach Hamar by car in around 1 hour 45 minutes. Hop aboard a train instead and the journey will be even faster. Along the way, you will be treated to some of Norway’s finest scenery.
