Centred around the administrative hub of Sandvika, Bærum is a sprawling municipality within the Greater Oslo Region. It’s considered a suburb of Oslo and is one of the Norwegian capital’s most affluent residential areas, home to a variety of recreational and cultural attractions.
Things to do in Baerum
Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a visit to the Henie Onstad Kunstsenter, an impressive art museum positioned on a headland jutting into the Oslo Fjord. It was founded by the Olympic figure skating champion Sonja Henie and her husband, Niels Onstad, based on their private collection of contemporary art. Browse the light-filled gallery spaces where works by Picasso, Matisse and Beuys are exhibited, then see Yayoi Kusama’s famous installation “Hymn of Life”.
Rock climbers can tackle the challenging routes of Kolsås, a wooded mountain ridge dominated by two steep peaks. It’s the largest rock climbing area near Oslo, with over 200 routes to explore, and is a popular destination for alpine skiing in the winter months. From the top of Kolsås, you can enjoy sweeping views across Bærum.
Visiting in the summer months? Relax on the shores of Bogstadvannet, a picturesque lake named after a manor estate on its eastern edge. It’s a popular spot for city dwellers to swim and sunbathe and is home to the Oslo Golfklubb on its southern shore. Dating back to 1924, this is the oldest golf club in Norway and was recently upgraded by the American golf course architect, Steve Forrest.
Getting around Baerum
Bærum is around 15 minutes’ drive from the centre of Oslo and 45 minutes from Oslo Airport. Regular trains connect to Sandvika railway station and buses travel throughout the municipality. Having your own vehicle is the most convenient way of exploring Bærum.