There are many ways to enjoy being in Ringerike and near the water in this pleasant city that offers a gateway to the rolling hills and tranquil lakes of the wider Ringerike region.
Getting to Ringerike
To plan your trip to Ringerike with ease, follow this guide on getting there with the sub-sections – By car, By public transport, By air – laid out as viable solutions.
By Car
Travelling to Ringerike? Automobile is the way to go! It’s connected to national highways so it’ll be a piece of cake.
Take the E16 road and you’ll reach roundabouts. Exit number 15 onto RV35 and you’ll be there in minutes.
If you’re coming from Oslo, it’ll take an hour. But, bear in mind, traffic jams can increase that time.
Pro Tip: Check current traffic info before setting off. That way, your journey will be hassle-free!
By Public Transport
Using Mass Transit Hub for Ringerike
Mass transit makes it easy to get to Ringerike. It also saves you money. Here are the options:
- Train: Take the 90-minute train from Oslo central station to Drammen. Then, take the 45-minute bus ride to Ringerike.
- Bus: Regular service between Oslo and Hønefoss stops at multiple locations.
- Taxi: Taxis are always available and can fit your schedule.
Plus, there are private shuttle services that have pre-booking or on-demand options.
An Efficient Way of Reaching Ringerike
Using public transit to Ringerike? Check out our cyberspace portal for excellent connections and reliable schedules. Book tickets ahead to avoid long queues.
If you’re flying, be ready for an adventure! Ringerike is home to a haunted castle.
By Air
Come to Ringerike! Reach it via Oslo Airport, 50 km away. Take a train or bus from the airport to Hønefoss town center in 1 hour and 15 minutes. Flights from domestic and international locations are available. Bus services and car rentals are also provided. Taxis are an option, but costly. Take a helicopter tour for a unique, scenic experience. Marvel at the heather-covered hills and emerald peaks! Ready for adventure? Ringerike awaits – no Starbucks, though!
Where to Stay in Ringerike
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To find the ideal accommodation for your stay in Ringerike, consider these three excellent options: Grand Hotel Ringerike, Klækken Hotel, and Hadeland Hotell. Each of these establishments offers unique amenities and features that cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury or practicality, rest assured that you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Ringerike.
Grand Hotel Ringerike
Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at Ringerike’s Klækken Hotel. With grand and modern amenities, it’s perfect for leisure and business travelers alike. Rooms are designed for comfort and convenience.
Tantalize your taste buds with the hotel’s restaurant. Savour delicacies from around the globe.
Adventurous types can enjoy outdoor activities and excursions. But most of all, enjoy the hotel’s exceptional hospitality services.
Fun Fact: Klækken Hotel was built in 1898 as the Høgfjelds Sanatorium, designed by architect Ole Stein. Enjoy a royal getaway in Norway!
Klækken Hotel
Klækken Hotel is a great accommodation option in Ringerike. It offers amazing amenities and services, such as delicious meals, workout facilities, and event spaces for large crowds. The garden and scenery here make it ideal for weddings and photoshoots.
Activities like indoor and outdoor sports, as well as the sauna and pool, fill up guests’ days. The reception desk even suggests tours to explore the region. Business travelers can use the meeting rooms for conferences and other events.
Nearby, Valdres Folkemuseum shows traditional Norwegian culture, and Kistefos Museum has contemporary art pieces. Restaurants and nature trails are also within reach of the hotel.
Hadeland Hotell is close by, too, if visitors want a more rustic stay. This is the perfect place to feel like royalty – unless you’re scared of a bit of modern-day sieging!
Hadeland Hotell
If you’re after luxury in Ringerike, this high-end accommodation is a must. Rooms are elegantly decorated and the service is impeccable. Plus, enjoy the spa, fitness center, and fine dining.
If you like outdoor activities, there’s plenty to explore. Visit the Hadeland Glassworks factory or Ringeriksbadet water park. Take a stroll around Mjøsa lake or explore the nature parks.
For groups or families, rent a vacation home near the famous landmarks. Hønefossen waterfall, Ringerike museum, and more!
Overall, there’s no shortage of great places to stay in Ringerike. Luxury hotel rooms or quaint vacation homes near the attractions – it will be an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to taste the unique blend of Norwegian and international flavors!
Local Cuisine in Ringerike
To explore the local cuisine in Ringerike with recommended restaurants and vegetarian and vegan options, delve into traditional Norwegian dishes. These sub-sections offer a variety of solutions to indulge in local culinary experiences.
Traditional Norwegian Dishes
Savor Norwegian Gastronomy in Ringerike!
Indulge in a unique culinary experience with traditional Norwegian dishes. From seafood to meat, Ringerike’s local cuisine has something for everyone.
Try popular dishes like Fårikål, a stewed mutton with cabbage and black pepper, Lutefisk, dried whitefish soaked in water and lye, and Raspeballer, mashed potatoes and flour dough boiled into dumplings.
Also, check out specialities like Klippfisk, salted and dried cod, Rakfisk, fermented freshwater fish, and Fårikål pizza.
Don’t forget to add the condiments like mustard sauces, lingonberry jam, soured cream, or flatbread to enjoy the full flavor!
Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Head to Ringerike for an unforgettable gastronomic journey!
Recommended Restaurants
Get ready for a delicious experience in Ringerike! Here are some of the top picks to savor the local cuisine:
- Glass- Drinking and Dining: Marvel at its beautiful architecture. Enjoy the award-winning wine list. Sample the inventive menu using locally-sourced ingredients.
- Kitchens by Friis: Try traditional Norwegian dishes with an exciting modern twist! Located within the Southern Buskerud Museum.
- General Hotell: Two restaurants in one! Grill Room offers specialist meats. Generalen Bar and Brasserie has a lively brasserie style menu.
- Røyse Mat & Vinhus: Unique taste of Ringerike’s rural lifestyle. Enjoy delectable set menus from ingredients sourced from nearby farms.
- Café Pi: Delicious breakfast and lunch made with fresh local produce. Don’t miss out on their yummy cakes!
Go beyond restaurants! Take a culinary-focused tour of the area. Visit small family-owned farms and food markets. Experience the local history.
Ringerike has something for everyone. So pack your bags now and book a table. Get ready for an amazing gastronomic adventure! From vegan options to carnivore-friendly dishes, everyone will enjoy the feast!
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
If you’re plant-based in Ringerike, you’ve got options. Try these:
- The Farm Kitchen for fresh produce
- Burger Bar for veggie burgers with mushrooms & beets
- Lillehammer Kaffebar & Cocktailbar for bean-based stews & soups
- Padrino Pizza for gluten-free vegan pizzas
Plus, Spinsi has organic veggies. Garden-to-plate!
Fun fact, Ringerike is one of the best mushroom picking places in Norway. Gather your own! And if you’re up for a thrill, try outdoor activities here. Vacation and danger? Yes, please!
What to see in Ringerike
The Begna, Randselva and Storelva rivers snake through and around the city of Hønefoss. This waterside location makes the city very photogenic, and also provides opportunities for various watersports. Head further out of the city to discover the many natural wonders of the wider Ringerike region.
Places to Visit in Ringerike
To plan your itinerary for the best places to explore during your visit to Ringerike, this section on ‘Places to Visit in Ringerike’ with sub-sections like ‘Ringerike Museum’, ‘Hadeland Glassworks’, ‘Jevnaker Church’, and ‘Ringeriksbadet’ will guide you through the must-visit sights in Ringerike.
Ringerike Museum
In the town center you can tour an interesting collection of museums. In the west of the city, you will find the acclaimed Veien Kulturminnepark (Veien Cultural Heritage Park).
A visit to Ringerike’s Museum is a must! It’s a treasure chest of artefacts from pre-historic times to today. Exhibits include historical pieces, folk costumes, and handicrafts. The galleries offer an immersive experience with interactive displays and multimedia presentations. Rich audio-visual elements accompany each exhibit, showcasing stories about local events, people, and traditions.
This is a wonderful place to start getting to know the area, as the park covers centuries of culture and history. See fascinating exhibits including four well-preserved ancient longhouses.
You can get close to historic artefacts on guided tours, with knowledgeable guides providing informative insight. Learn more about Ringerike’s rich culture and history by visiting this intriguing museum! Art, history and new places all await you at Ringerike Museum – a definite must-visit destination!
But if you’re a bit clumsy, Hadeland Glassworks might not be the best place for you.
Hadeland Glassworks
Glimpse the Glassy Craftsmanship of Ringerike!
Drive northeast from Hønefoss and you will get to the famous Hadeland Glassverk. At these rustic glassworks, which are set in a pretty village, you can learn all about the traditional art of glassblowing and pick up unique souvenirs.
Witness the skilled glassblowers at the Glassworks in Hadeland- creating amazing designs from molten glass.
Check out the diverse offerings at the Table – vases, bowls, and sculptures.
Or customize your own glass art souvenir through workshops conducted by professional instructors.
It’s amazing to know that Hadeland Glassworks has been in operation since 1762 – making it one of Norway’s oldest industrial companies.
The factory’s museum displays unique antique glass pieces dating back centuries.
Local legend has it that an apprentice once dropped a smoking pipe at the furnace, sparking the idea for the world-famous ‘pipe vase’.
If heaven is only half as heavenly as Jevnaker Church, Sunday mass may be worth a try!
Jevnaker Church
In Ringerike, stands a majestic edifice – the Church of Jevnaker. Its walls, carved wooden doors and ceiling paintings tell its story. It has kept Norway’s cultural heritage alive for centuries.
This church is also known for its magical atmosphere – surrounded by lush fields and tall trees. People can take peaceful walks up to it.
Inside, the 18th-century pulpit boasts intricate carvings of biblical tales. Plus, two angelic figures welcome visitors through the big doors. It’s a haven for art lovers – full of art from the 14th century.
A visit to Jevnaker Church promises a soulful experience. You can marvel at Norway’s art and architecture, all while taking in the beauty of Ringerike. Don’t miss this opportunity when in this area – and don’t forget to take a dip in the healing waters of Ringeriksbadet.
Ringeriksbadet
Ringeriksbadet is an aquatic and fitness centre in Hønefoss, renowned for its modern architecture and state-of-the-art facilities. It caters to all ages, offering a wide variety of activities. These include an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a wave pool, thrilling waterslides, hot tubs, gyms, dance rooms and a child pool.
The centre also provides classes for different levels of swimmers. Experienced staff are on-hand to offer help and guidance. Plus, there are various events such as lifeguard courses, school trips and birthday parties. They even have evening swims for those wanting to relax after a long day.
Did you know? Ringeriksbadet has three exciting waterslides, with heights ranging from 70m-100m – dubbed Korketrekkers!
Outdoor Activities in and Around Ringerike
To explore the outdoor activities in and around Ringerike, hiking trails, skiing and snowboarding, water sports, and cycling tours are great solutions. These activities provide an opportunity to witness the gorgeous landscape of Ringerike while immersing yourself in various outdoor adventures.
Head out into the countryside to discover the beautiful landscapes that have made this part of the country so popular. Roughly a 15-minute drive to the south is the northern edge of the lovely Tyrifjorden lake, the fifth-largest lake in the country. This is a well-loved recreation spot for locals and tourists, offering opportunities for swimming, kayaking, fishing, boating, and simply relaxing on the shore.
Hiking Trails
If you prefer hiking to swimming, you can explore some of the woodland trails that lead through Ringerike’s dense forests.
Embark on a remarkable journey! Check out five amazing hiking spots in and around Ringerike:
- Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of Kistefos Sculpture Park trail. Less than a 10-minute drive away is the Kistefos-Museet, a wonderfully comprehensive and varied museum complex taking in a sculpture park, an industrial museum and an art hall.
- Take a peaceful walk on the enchanting Krokskogen forest trail, with its evergreen trees.
- Uncover the historical importance of Kongens Utsikt trail, which offers stunning views.
- Push yourself with a 9km trek to Høgevarde peak from Løvlia.
- Wander around the vast, lush green fjord surroundings of Steinsfjorden lake in Jevnaker.
Get ready to explore nature’s wonders! Don’t forget to bring appropriate gear and essentials such as snacks, water, sunscreen and bug spray for a comfortable trip. As a beginner, my top priority is to not roll down the mountain like a giant snowball!
Skiing and Snowboarding
Venture to Ringerike for adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities. Cross-country ski through tranquil forests. Snowboard and ski downhill at Høgevarde, Krokskogen, and Ringkollen.
Discover ski touring on rugged terrains with backcountry lakes – ideal for fishing and hiking. Relax at Sundvolden Hotel after a long day.
For the daring, try kiting in Hønefoss or winter golf at ‘Hole 19’. Live life to the fullest – book your Ringerike adventure today!
Dive deeper into adventure with Ringerike’s water sports. Beware of seaweed tickles!
Water Sports
Hønefoss is easily accessible, being only an hour’s drive from Oslo. Expect a spectacularly beautiful journey, with a road that follows the northern banks of the Oslofjord and Tyrifjorden lakes.
Plunge Into Water Activities in Ringerike:
Discover the amazing water activities in Ringerike with its stunning mountain, forest, and park views. Here are four great ways to make a splash:
- Kayaking: Drift across tranquil lakes or tackle whitewater rapids for an exciting adventure.
- Canoeing: Paddle through crystal-clear waters and take in the natural beauty.
- Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Check your balance and core strength while enjoying a peaceful ride on smooth waters.
- Fishing: Cast your line into rivers, streams, or lakes, home to trout, salmon, pike, and zander.
Don’t miss out on the other water sports like windsurfing, kite-surfing, and wakeboarding.
For a unique water experience, why not try camping near a lake? Wake up to beautiful sunrise views and nature sounds before taking a swim and having breakfast onshore.
Enjoy water fun for everyone with easy access points all around Ringerike!
Feel the thrill of cycling tours in Ringerike, but prepare yourself – the hills are full of panting!
Cycling Tours
Hop on two wheels and discover the magnificent outdoors around Ringerike! Embark on a two-wheeled journey through peaceful countryside, winding roads and delightful villages. Inhale the fresh air and be astounded by the captivating views while getting a good workout.
- Pedal past Hadeland Glassverk, home to Norway’s most renowned glass factory.
- Cycle around Randsfjorden lake, with its marvelous views of the nearby hills.
- Check out Kistefos Museum, a unique industrial museum with awe-inspiring art pieces and sculptures.
- Tackle the Hønefoss trails on a mountain bike, for novices to experts.
- Spin along small side roads to observe local farms, ancient sites and scenery.
If you’re after something alternative, consider renting an e-bike or joining a guided cycling tour. There are multiple routes to suit every cycling skill.
Did you know that Ringerike has hosted multiple major cycling events? In 2018 it was chosen to host the UCI Road World Championships and in 2020 it was the venue for Norway’s national road race championship. You can join the ranks of top cyclists who have enjoyed the beauty of our area by bike.
Get your Viking gear on and prepare for a legendary night at the Ringerike Festival – just don’t blame Odin if you have a pounding headache the following morning.
Festivals and Events in Ringerike
To explore the festivals and events in Ringerike, immerse yourself in the local culture and indulge in the festivities. Ringerike Days, Hønefoss Market Day, and Hadeland Glassworks Christmas Market are some of the popular events that bring people from all walks of life together.
Ringerike Days
Every year, people flock to Ringerike to join the celebrations! It’s a time full of excitement and fun activities, like live music and gourmet food tastings.
You can get involved in cultural events, such as outdoor markets and art exhibitions. Local businesses set up booths too, so you can explore their products and services. Hear stories and go on guided tours to learn about the region’s history and traditions.
Nature trails and kayaking excursions along the river await. If you prefer something more relaxed, try hot air balloon rides for amazing views of Norway’s countryside.
Taste some traditional Norwegian dishes like Lefse (potato-flatbread) and Krumkake (thin waffles with whipped cream). Not only is it a great experience, but you’ll be helping local businesses too!
Come and join the Ringerike Days – it’s a cultural experience that you won’t forget. And don’t miss the Hønefoss Market Day – it’s a great way to save money!
Hønefoss Market Day
Every year, Hønefoss Market Day brings together a wide range of products and services. It draws visitors and locals to its vibrant atmosphere.
There are plenty of opportunities to buy fresh produce, handcrafted items, and unique gifts. Plus, enjoy performances by local musicians, delicious food, and activities like face painting and balloon twisting.
Free parking services make it easy to get there with no stress. Thousands of visitors come, bringing economic and social benefits to the Ringerike region. (Source: VisitRingerike)
Come to Hønefoss Market Day! Buy fresh produce, handcrafted items, and unique gifts at great prices. Have fun with live music, food, and activities. And don’t forget the free parking!
Hadeland Glassworks Christmas Market
The Christmas Market at Hadeland Glassworks is a festive extravaganza. Enjoy traditional Norwegian crafts, beautiful glassware, woollen sweaters, and homemade jams, with a warming gløgg!
Walk around the marketplace, decorated with twinkling lights. Scent the Christmas spices in the air. Meet local artisans and listen to live music. Admire the Christmas ornaments, made by skilled glassblowers.
For a unique experience, join a workshop. Create a one-of-a-kind piece of glass art, guided by glassblowing masters. This family-friendly activity is perfect for couples too!
Book early – this popular event draws visitors from near and far. Spend a winter’s day at the Hadeland Glassworks Christmas Market and embrace the Christmas spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Ringerike?
A: Ringerike is a region located in Norway, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Q: How do I get to Ringerike?
A: The easiest way to get to Ringerike is by taking a train or bus from Oslo, which is about a one-hour journey.
Q: What are some popular attractions in Ringerike?
A: Some popular attractions in Ringerike include Hadeland Glassverk, Ringerikes Museum, and the historical town of Hønefoss.
Q: When is the best time to visit Ringerike?
A: The best time to visit Ringerike is during the summer months from June to August, when the weather is mild and sunny.
Q: What are some outdoor activities to do in Ringerike?
A: There are plenty of outdoor activities to do in Ringerike, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing in the winter months.
Q: Where should I stay in Ringerike?
A: There are many options for accommodations in Ringerike, from hotels to guesthouses and cabins. It’s recommended to stay in the city center of Hønefoss or near the popular attractions for ease of travel.
