Recently i visited the beautiful Holmenkollen in Norway. It is known for is skiing background hosting multiple ski-jump events along with biathlon and cross country skiing events. It is located in Oslo area, just outside the city.
Mountain gets very busy when it comes ski season, obviously, but it is qute busy during the rest of the year as well since it offers great views and trails for walking. Inside Holmenkollen ski-jump complex is located also a Ski Museum dedicated to history of skiing in Norway.
Holmenkollen, Norge
Couple of months ago i had to go on business trips to Oslo quite often. I managed to use my down time to ride around the city and areas next to it to take pictures and explore local culture.
Here is a little photography blog and my experiences on the mountain.
The Jump
The jump has been rebuilt multiple times and last officially opened in 2010 and can be boasted as the most modern ski jump in the world. Jump is registered as 64 meters above the ground and 1000 tons of steel was used to build it.
The hill size is 134 meters and at steepest point it reaches 35,27 degrees. In addition to that the jump is located 425 meters above sea level which makes this place especially attractive when it comes the view.
Every year Holmenkollen is a host to FIS Ski Jumping World Cup where locals get huge support. Alongside to that it also is a host to one of the most exciting skiing competition BMW IBU World CUP in Biathlon.
Fun Times
This is one of the few places where they offer full tour of the jump facility. I was lucky enough to be a part of it. I was able to walk around the huge construction from the outside but also use the jumpers lift to get to te top and enjoy the view.
They even offer you to save the trouble of coming down back with the lift and offer you to take a ride hanging from the cables. This might not seem crazy from a distance but got real sketchy real fast when being at the top.
The Museum
The museum was opened in 1923 and it is world's oldest museum dedicated to skiing. Here you can witness 4000 years of ski history throughout different exhibitions.
Inside i was able to look at one of the first skis ever made from tree and other interesting items. On the other side i had an opportunity to touch the skis of famous Norwegian biathlon legend Ole Einar Bjørndalen. This certainly was exciting. The place even had a ski jump simulator.
The View
Being in the mountains and places like this are always exciting to me. Maybe because my home country doesn't have any. The hilly area of Holmenkollen did not disappoint my inner photographer and i was able to take some amazing photos.
The Restaurant
On the way back from my trip i hang around the little cafe which was pretty busy. If you think about the locations for a restaurant, it might not get any better in such an area. I believe business might be booming in ski seasons. As a waiter stated me, this is a must stop if you ever go to watch a competition. Getting a table is not as easy though.
Outside the restaurant is located the "Eternal Peace Flame" which kind of reminded me of the olympic flame. This flame is burning throughout the year and is a popular tourist photo-must here.
Tripadvisor
I don't think Holmenkollen alone should be a destination to travel to unless you are about to witness a world cup in biathlon or ski jump. That said, i find this place a must see if visiting Norway and Oslo area.
Getting there is very straightforward and everybody is very kind to show you around. I will definitely return to watch a sports event.
Photographs: Personal Archive
Ski Jump Facts: Source