Moss, a municipality in Ostfold County, Norway, is perhaps best known for its burgeoning art scene. Various museums and galleries line its streets and are constantly filled with countless works by Norway’s young and upcoming contemporary visual artists, as well as those by established names in the Norwegian art world.
However, Moss has a lot more to offer than just its art. Here, one may also get a glimpse of its industrial heritage. Having served as one of Norway’s earliest and most important industrial centers in the late 1800s, Moss’s numerous paper mills and metalwork factories still stand to this day, serving as wonderful examples of Norwegian architecture.
Located along a coastline, one may also find numerous beaches in and around Moss – nearly 50 of them, in fact! Protected by its local government, Moss’s beaches boast crystal clear waters. With a variety of landscapes - from rocky beaches to sand and grass covered ones - visitors are free to enjoy a plethora of water activities, such as surfing, fishing, water skiing, and even camping by the beach.
If you’re looking to visit this charming and exciting city, here are five of the best things to enjoy in Moss, Norway.
1. Galleri F15
Established in 1966, Galleri F15 is known to be one of the oldest and most esteemed art institutions in all of Norway. Galleri F15 largely features works by contemporary Norwegian artists. The location of the gallery itself is also quite a sight to behold. Located right next to a beach and surrounded by a lush woodland, one may also opt to take a quiet afternoon walk or swim right before coming to see the gallery.
After enjoying the art, you could visit the gallery shop at the ground floor, where visitors can choose from a wide variety of souvenirs such as art prints, bags, art books, and other design products. You may also stop for a quick bite at the Alby Kafé F15, the museum’s café. The Alby Kafe F15 arguably attracts just as many tourists with their bestselling local pastry, the Albikringle or Alby pastry. Visitors have called this sticky-sweet Danish pastry “addictive” and “the best pastry imaginable,” so it is sure to be something you wouldn’t want to miss out on.
Galleri F15
Address: Alby Gård, Biørn Biørnstadsveg, 1519 Moss, Norway
Facebook: Galleri F15
2. Galleri Henrik Gerner
Galleri Henrik Gerner is one of Norway’s largest private galleries and finest art exhibition spaces. Located at the Kong Carl building along Henrik Gerner Street, this picturesque gallery is actually one of the oldest brick houses in Moss, built in the early 1800s.
The Galleri Henrik Gerner does not feature a permanent collection, although it typically features about 10 main exhibitions a year. The gallery features works by the most prolific artists in Norway, as well as some international Nordic artists. Although the gallery’s focus is on the visual arts, it aims to strike a balance between two and three-dimensional fine arts and the tradition of handcrafted work. One may expect to find paintings and sculptures, as well as various handcrafted works here.
Galleri Henrik Gerner
Address: Henrich Gerners gate 7, 1530 Moss, Norway
Website: Galleri Henrik Gerner (in Norwegian)
3. Hotell Refsnes Gods
Originally built in the 18th-century as a country house, the Hotell Refsnes Gods has housed countless notable guests over the years, including artists like Edvard Munch and Hans Gude, writer Camilla Collett, and even King Oscar II.
Besides its colorful history, the Hotell Refsnes Gods is best known for its extensive art collection. With nearly 500 works of art gracing its walls, the Hotel Refsnes Gods has also become known among locals as the “contemporary art hotel.” The Hotel Refsnes Gods’ public areas and guest rooms are all filled with works by local and international artists alike, including Andy Warhol, Edvard Munch, Ørnulf Opdahl, and Carl Nesjar, among many others. Guided tours of the hotel may also be given to visitors, upon request.
In addition, the Hotell Refesnes Gods is also known for its exquisite cuisine and its cellar, full of the finest wines. It is also located near the Oslofjord, and has its own jetty for its guests. During their stay, visitors may enjoy not only the art, but also the food, drink, and even the view of the sea.
Hotell Refsnes Gods
Address: Godset 5, 1518 Moss, Norway
Website: Hotell Refsnes Gods
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Galleri Kraft og Metallum
Also called the Kraft Galery, the Galleri Kraft og Metallum is actually two different galleries under the same roof. Found in Mollebyen, one of Norway’s earliest and most productive industrial centers, Galleri Kraft og Metallum is housed in a charming, old-style building conveniently located next to the Amfi Shopping Centre.
Galleri Kraft og Metallum features numerous exhibitions on the industries in Moss, including jewelry, ceramics, glass, handmade knives, and textiles. The gallery also features various crafts from Sweden and Denmark. Visitors may even request for personalized crafts from their goldsmith workshop for modern jewelry, which is known for their excellent service.
Galleri Kraft og Metallum
Address: Th. Petersons gate 6, Moss 1530, Norway
5. Sjobadet Beach
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Although Moss has nearly 50 different beaches to choose from, Sjobadet Beach stands out as the first to have been awarded the distinction of “blue flag” status, for meeting its stringent environmental standards and quality standards. Located on the island of Jeloy, Sjobadet Beach is known for its soft, yellow sand and clear blue waters. Visitors may go for a swim or go fishing for free. The surrounding park is also quite lovely and is perfect for a nice stroll.
Located by the harbor, Sjobadet Beach is also easily accessible. Nearby establishments include a supermarket and some small cafes. Walkways from the beach to the other parts of the island also make it easy for visitors to navigate their way through the beach.
Sjobadet
Address: Sjoegata 11, Moss 1516, Norway (Formerly Sjøbadet - Moss sentrum)
Something for everyone
Although its museums and galleries remain to be the city’s main attractions, there is still much to enjoy in Moss. Whether you’re a history buff looking to learn more about the role of the city as an industrial center, or a nature lover looking to spend some time in the waves and under the sun, there is surely something for you to love at Moss, Norway.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Top 10 Things To Do At Night In Oslo, NorwayRae Marielle -
Create an account to