Wedged between the Oslo Fjord and Vansjø lake, Rygge is a small town south of Oslo. It was named after the historic Rygge Farm that once occupied the site and is home to a stone church that has existed since the medieval period. Rygge encompasses an air station of the Royal Norwegian Air Force where F-5 Freedom Fighters and Sea King helicopters are flown.
Things to do in Ryggebyen
You can delve into the local history at the Rygge Museum, which hosts changing exhibitions throughout the year in an attractive whitewashed building. In addition to its displays of local artefacts and old photographs, it features an on-site cafe and a bookstore selling local historical literature.
In the neighbouring village of Kirkegrenda is the Rygge Kirke, which is one of the best-preserved medieval stone churches in Norway. Constructed around 1170, it features a beautifully carved facade and granite reliefs around its apse. Step inside to admire the church’s long nave and its altarpiece carved with scenes from the Bible, as well as the baptismal font dating from 1225.
Travelling with kids? They can let off some steam at the Sprett Aktivitetspark and Trampolinepark Rygge, which features fun activities for all ages. In addition to a trampoline-filled jumping court, a foam pit and “super trampolines”, there are themed climbing walls that will challenge all experience levels. Younger kids will love Playland, which has a separate area for under threes.
Getting around Ryggebyen
Rygge is a 20-minute drive from Sarpsborg and about an hour from Oslo, while Oslo Airport is 1.5 hours away. Regular trains connect from the Norwegian capital to the Rygge railway station and buses travel through the town. The centre of Rygge is compact enough to explore on foot.