After the big Trolltunga hike I woke up feeling a sense of accomplishment (and a little – or more a lot – of soreness). It was time to drive 600km across the country, back to civilisation. I had one more week in Scandinavia, so I wanted to see the capital of Norway and Sweden. So let’s compare Oslo vs Stockholm. Which one is better? And how about a few relaxing days at Lake Vanern in Sweden. Well deserved, don’t you think?
Looking back now I was very happy with my planned weather and timing for the hike (let’s call it the Sunny Sunday). It was otherwise a very rainy week at the fjords.
Oslo
Driving back through the mountains of Norway wasn’t too bad. I arrived in Oslo late in the afternoon, ready to explore the city the next day. The capital of Norway is very nice. Oslo has nice and modern harbour town, sitting on the southern coast of the head of the Oslofjords. The city is not quite as big as Hamburg, but nevertheless nice to walk around. Especially when the legs are still recovering from the big mountain hike.
That is really all I have to say about Oslo. Yes, there might be more to it, and maybe there is a cultural site that I didn’t explore. However, based on what I have seen so far, for me, Oslo was nice enough.
But in regards Oslo vs Stockholm? I was keen to visit Stockholm. Would it be much different?
Stockholm
As mentioned in my previous posts, the weather plays an important part when travelling and sometimes, you get caught in the rain. Although my planning worked out well for the Trolltunga hike, karma had its revenge in Stockholm. Oh well, given the rarity of it and being able to avoid the rain most times I just had to deal with it.
I took a train into Stockholm from my hotel (it was a bit easier than driving) and when I arrived in the city it started to rain quite heavily. Unfortunately not the best time to walk around. Luck was on my site quite quickly though, when it stopped raining pretty soon, and I was good to go again. And take a few photos along the way (while the sun is out).
I walked the main inner city islands (appparently there are 14) and crossed many bridges (there are more than 50 on the extensive Baltic Sea archipelago). The old town part Gamla Stan is very cute although it was packed with people. I guess it is August und therefore tourist season already.
Stockholm is a really amazing and grand. I loved exploring it and I would love to explore it more. It has a great vibe, lots of stunning architecture and lots and lots of boats. Seems like it is a town for boats, however, after all my boating experience with my friends, I didn’t take a boat tour. Maybe next time? Instead, I decided to walk the city. And after 15km of walking I felt I covered a lot.
So, which one is better? What do you think? …
Oslo vs Stockholm
So, which one is better? I must say that Stockholm definitely looked more appealing. It is just a shame that the weather wasn’t right. I would have loved to stay a bit longer (that said I was on a schedule to get to a wedding in Poland). But Stockholm will be on my list to go back to. For sure! Unfortunately, Oslo isn’t.
Although I will definitely go back to Norway for more hiking. What an amazing country!
In the middle of nowhere – Lake Vanern
So, I did my comparison on the capitals, Oslo vs Stockholm. But before Stockholm, and just after Oslo there was the ‘well deserved’ relaxing time, in the middle of nowhere. At Säffle and Lake Vanern in Sweden. What an amazing and hidden spot.
After a few days rest in Oslo, it was time to leave Norway for good and drive back to Sweden to spend some time with more locals. Destination was Säffle and Lake Vanern (Vänern). Lake Vanern is the largest lake in Sweden and the European Union, located around the middle of Sweden. Apparently it also is a great spot for salmon fishing. Did I mention that I literally ate Salmon every day in Scandinavia? It is the best I have ever tasted. From sushimi to smoked and grilled. Love it all!
Anyway, I have met some friends who have a holiday house at Lake Vanern, so I could spend some time there. The cute little house was in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by lots of ‚golden fields’. It was a beautiful area but not sure it would be that pretty in winter. Not too keen on seeing it then either, it would be way too cold for me. In contrast, the summer season is definitely much more picturesque and photogenic in Sweden and Scandinavia.
I did as little as possible (besides a few runs and walks) and felt very relaxed. Before heading to Stockholm I made a quick stop in Strängnäs and Mariefred, both cute little Scandinavian towns. Mariefred especially is worth a visit!
Scandinavia Summary
And that was it. My time in Scandinavia was over (for now). I really enjoyed being here and although in the fight of Oslo vs Stockholm, Stockholm definitely won, I loved it all! From the flat scenery in Denmark to the mountains of Norway and the lakes and cities in Sweden. And I did it all cashless!
Now it was time to catch a cargo ferry to get to the Baltic states followed by a family wedding in Poland. Above all it will be good to get some reasonably priced accomodation and food again. Seriously! Nevertheless, I am glad I spent the 2 (expensive) weeks in Scandinavia. It is part of my journey. Next stop: Tallinn in Estonia!
