Discover Sarpsborg

Sarpsborg combines city history by the Sarpsfossen waterfall with the green recreation area Kulåsparken and trails through the cultural landscape. Historic sites in the city centre sit alongside opportunities for hiking and cycling. If you are looking for a hotel in Sarpsborg, it helps to plan your stay around these different interests.

City history by the Sarpsfossen waterfall

The Sarpsfossen waterfall is a landmark of Sarpsborg and is closely associated with the city’s industrial development. It formed about 4,000 years ago, where the water broke through the Raet moraine ridge. Its water power drove mills in the Middle Ages; sawmills were added from the 16th century onwards. This site offers a way to trace both the formation of the landscape and the earlier use of water power.

King Olav Haraldsson founded the city of Borg on the west bank of the Sarpsfossen waterfall in 1016. To mark Sarpsborg’s 900th anniversary, the Olavsmonumentet was unveiled on 29 July 1916. The dates highlight the difference between the city’s founding and its later commemoration: Borg was established in the Middle Ages, while the monument is part of the anniversary history of the 20th century.

Museum, church and Kulåsparken

The Borgarsyssel Museum is the regional museum of Østfold and is located near the site where Saint Olav founded his city in 1016. This connects the local founding story with a museum whose role extends beyond Sarpsborg to Østfold. Sarpsborg Church stands in the city centre; the present church building was completed in 1863. Its stained glass works are by Karl Kristiansen, Rolf Klemetsrud and Victor Smith.

Kulåsparken offers another perspective on the city: it is a green recreation area in the centre and contains more than 40 Iron Age burial mounds. The oldest date from around the time of Christ’s birth. The park also has a large amphitheatre that is used for concerts and other events. If you would like to plan your visit around a particular event, check the dates in advance.

Getting around on foot and by bike

The Tusenårsstien is a hiking trail through the history of Sarpsborg. It passes through the cultural landscape on both sides of the Sarpsfossen waterfall; signs with QR codes provide historical information that visitors can access on their mobile phones. As you walk, the focus is not only on the route but also on the city’s history.

For longer hikes, the Borgleden is another option. The 189-kilometre pilgrimage route runs from Halden via Sarpsborg and Ås to Oslo. The Pilgrimssenter Borgleden is located in Sarpsborg and advises visitors about hiking the route. Before setting out on a longer hike, check the route information; if you plan to visit the centre, it is a good idea to check the current visitor arrangements in advance.

The Glommastien is a way to explore the area by bike: this circular cycling route passes close to the cultural landscape on both sides of the Glomma in Sarpsborg and Fredrikstad. It offers a different way to explore the region from the hiking trails. Check the route information before setting off, as the route extends across both cities.

Plan your stay around your interests

Historic sites in the city centre, a trail through the cultural landscape or a longer tour all lend themselves to different day plans. Check route information before longer hikes and cycling trips; for advice about hiking the Borgleden, contact the Pilgrimssenter Borgleden in Sarpsborg.

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