At the heart of the Norwegian Riviera is the wonderous island, Odderoya, with abundant culture and natural beauty. Being a passionate walker, I enjoyed exploring this destination very much. So, read on to learn about my discoveries on a walking tour in Odderoya and why it’s called the ‘Norwegian Riviera.’
This island is south of Kristiansand, on the southern Norway coast, dividing the eastern and western parts of the city. Granvanekanalen canal separates Odderoya from the Kristiansand. Firstly, I noticed the grandiose Kilden Performing Arts Centre, a modern architectural masterpiece for theatre and concerts. It exhibits a massive, undulating wooden canopy overhanging the harbor.
Fiskebrygga (The Fishing Wharf) is a stored fish landing with buildings used for shopping and eating. The Fish Market here is one of the biggest tourist attractions, including live shellfish, such as, oysers, shrimp, mussels and scallops. I walked through this touristy area, however, preferred exploring the peninsula paths of the abandoned military base, away from the crowds.
History – Military Base and Quarantine Station
Odderoya was the location of a fort and military base from 1667 to 1999. I took the wooded path through its grounds on the peninsula, seeing remains, such as, ramparts, a hospital, gun mounts and a fort. Also, surrounding the area are gorgeous views of the sparkling harbour on a sunny day, among the large granite boulders along the shoreline.
In addition, Odderoya was the largest Quarantine Harbour of northern Europe from 1804 -1914. Thus, crewmembers with plague from ships quarantined here. Consequently, a large stone wall still remains, that separated the quarantine station from others. The quarantine wall is in my photo below, next to Bendiksbukta Beach. Also, most of this abandoned naval base and barracks area has been refilled with artists, galleries, and shops, transforming into a thriving art scene.
Walking in the Woods and Sunning on the Boulders
I enjoyed most of my time just wandering the 3 km (1.8 m) path in the forests and shoreline. In addition, there are mammoth, granite boulders along the shoreline that I scrambled upon and basked in the sun. (Caution: do not step on the black rocks close to water’s edge as they are slippery) Others come to this recreational area to rock climb the craggy rocks and walls. I savored a sunny, summer day amidst the blue harbor, trees and sculptured boulders.
Odderoya of Norwegian Rivera
Overall, this port-of-call is teeming with intriguing history, beautiful scenery, recreational activities and a growing art scene. Consequently, the arts and entertainment refill the vacancy from the old naval base with a creative surge and events. Thus, there is a nice balance of culture and nature here to have an awesome getaway.
