Holmenkollen Ski Jump Tower, Ski Museum & Magic Activity Centre for kids

The famous statue of the late King Olav V is at Holmenkollen which has been the site for more than a century of skiing competitions.  Inside the Ski Jump is the Holmenkollen Ski Museum, the oldest of its kind in the world. The museum presents over 4,000 years of skiing history, Norwegian polar exploration artifacts and an exhibition on snowboarding and modern skiing.  Recently a new activity centre has been added for children.  Because the big events at Holmenkollen are sometimes “attacked” by fog, children can now meet the Blue gnomes and trolls who make fog – and also dispel it.  There are caves and slides to enjoy and of course the magical characters to meet.  The Blåkollen (Blue Kollen) centre is open from 10.00 to 16.00 every day.

The observation deck on top of the jump tower offers panoramic views of Oslo.   It is possible at certain times of the year, and in suitable weather conditions to buy a ticket to take the zip-line from the top to a platform at the bottom of the jump.  I have taken the zip-line myself – it was tremendous fun!  The only danger is that you might want to try it several times and thus spend all your holiday money!
The ski jump simulator next to the Jump gives a great thrill to those who dare to try that!

When you are up at Holmenkollen to visit the ski-jump or museum, you should take the opportunity to visit the famous Frognersæteren Restaurant just 5 minutes further up the road.  This restaurant is in the best Norwegian tradition for excellent food and a wonderful atmosphere – and view!  Prices are reasonable – some examples are (in NOK): soup of the day 105,- ; homemade fishcakes with vegetables and potatoes 148,- ; warm moose meat-cake with onions 105,- ; coffee and cake from 75,-