Outdoor Ice Skating in Norway 2024-2025

Norway, renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes and winter activities, offers a remarkable experience for outdoor ice skating enthusiasts. With frozen lakes, rivers, and specially maintained rinks in urban and rural areas, the country provides diverse options for skating.

Ice Skating in Oslo

Oslo, Norway’s capital, blends urban charm with easy access to nature. The city boasts several outdoor ice skating venues that cater to both locals and visitors during the winter months.

Spikersuppa Ice Rink

Located in the heart of Oslo, Spikersuppa Ice Rink is a popular choice for skating enthusiasts. Open from late November to early March, it offers free access to the ice. Skates can be rented on-site, with prices starting at approximately 150 Norwegian Krones (NOK) per session.

The rink is surrounded by cafes, shops, and other attractions, making it a convenient stop during a day out in the city. Opening hours typically run from 3 pm to 9 pm on weekdays, with extended hours on weekends.

Frogner Stadium Ice Rink

Frogner Stadium transforms into a large outdoor skating rink during the winter. Suitable for both casual skaters and those looking to practice speed skating, it charges an entry fee of around 50 NOK. Skate rentals are available for an additional cost. The rink’s proximity to Frogner Park allows visitors to enjoy a walk in the scenic park before or after skating.

Skating on Natural Ice in Oslo

For a more adventurous experience, Oslo's surrounding forests (Oslomarka) offer lakes like Sognsvann, Bogstadvannet, Nøklevann, Østensjøvannet, and Maridalsvannet that freeze over during winter, perfect for natural ice skating. Ensure the ice is at least 4 inches (10 cm) thick and check local safety updates as conditions vary. These locations often lack amenities, so plan accordingly with warm clothing, gloves, and safety equipment.

Ice Skating in Bergen

Bergen, known for its picturesque fjords and historic charm, also offers a variety of ice skating opportunities. The city is passionate about ice skating, having hosted major championships and fostering Olympic champions. Even if you’re not competing at the highest level, spending an afternoon on the ice can be great fun.

Slåtthaug

Bergen boasts an artificial outdoor ice rink with comprehensive amenities for skaters of all ages. The rink is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 am to 10 pm, Tuesday and Thursday from 9 am to 3:30 pm, Saturday from 12 pm to 5 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm to 8 pm.

Skate rentals are available at a cost of 80 NOK. Ice preparation occurs at scheduled times, and safety guidelines are enforced, including the use of helmets. The rink accommodates school classes with prior arrangements.

Skansedammen

When the weather is cold enough, Skansedammen becomes a charming outdoor skating rink, offering a quintessential winter experience in the heart of the city. Skating here is free, but keep in mind that heavy snowfall can sometimes make it impossible to use the rink.

Ice Skating in Tromsø

Situated above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø offers a unique skating experience under the northern lights.

Prestvannet Lake

One of the prime locations for natural ice skating is Prestvannet Lake, which transforms into a serene skating venue during the colder months. While there are no rental facilities on-site, the natural setting is perfect for experienced skaters. Skating here is free, but always check local ice conditions for safety.

Tromsdalen Speed Skating Track

Another exciting option is the Tromsdalen Speed Skating Track, the world's northernmost outdoor speed skating track. The local skating club runs a café where you can rent skates, helmets, and supports for smaller children.

The track is open from early November to the end of February, with operating hours on Wednesdays from 5:15 pm to 8 pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm. Keep in mind that, being an outdoor facility, it may close on short notice due to weather conditions.

Ice Skating in Trondheim

From November until March, Trondheim transforms several outdoor spaces into delightful ice skating rinks. Popular spots include Solsiden, located in the heart of an old shipyard next to modern shopping centers and cafes; Finalebanen, near St. Olavs Hospital, where a basketball court turns into a night-lit ice rink; and Ilaparken, where the soccer field becomes an ice rink lit until 10 PM.

For those seeking a larger rink, Leangen Idrettspark offers an artificial ice rink with rental services and amenities for families. Rosenborg Ballplass near Kristiansten Fortress and various lakes in the Bymarka Nature Reserve also offer natural skating experiences, maintained by volunteers. Remember to check the ice conditions and bring your own skates where necessary, as not all locations have rental facilities.

Solsiden

Solsiden, situated in the heart of a former shipyard, offers a free ice-skating rink open throughout the winter season. With festive lights and music creating a cozy atmosphere, the rink provides fun for visitors of all ages. Adjacent to modern shopping centers and restaurants, it’s an ideal spot for a day of shopping, dining, and skating. Operating hours vary, with extended times from Monday to Thursday (10 am–8 pm) and slightly shorter hours on weekends.