Things To Do
in Ringsaker
Ringsaker is a scenic municipality bordering Lake Mjøsa in Innlandet, combining lakeside towns with rolling farmland and forested hills. It hosts a striking mix of modern architecture, notably the Mjøstårnet tower in Brumunddal, and traditional rural life. The landscape invites outdoor activities year-round, from peaceful promenades along the lake to forest trails and winter sports.
Proximity to Hamar and Lillehammer makes Ringsaker a convenient base for exploring Eastern Norway while retaining a quiet, small-town atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by arriving in Ringsaker and settling into your lakeside accommodation near Mjøsa. Stretch your legs with a leisurely stroll along the shores, breathing in the crisp Norwegian air and admiring the gentle ripples on the water. Pause at a cozy café for a warm beverage and a sweet pastry while gazing across the lake toward the distant mountains.
Head to Moelv or Brumunddal to explore the local waterfront parks and sculpture trails. Rent a bicycle or embark on a relaxed e-bike ride along the marked paths winding through willow-lined shores and blooming meadows. Stop at an outdoor market to sample fresh berries, local cheeses, and artisanal breads.
Return to your accommodation as the sky softens into shades of pink and gold, catching the first glimmers of sunset over the lake. Enjoy a traditional Norwegian dinner featuring locally caught char or reindeer stew by a roaring fireplace. Finish the evening with a serene lakeside walk under a canopy of stars, listening to the gentle lapping of water against the docks.
Begin your cultural immersion at Ringsaker Church, one of Norway’s oldest wooden churches, as the morning light filters through its ancient windows. Join a guided tour to uncover fascinating Viking-era carvings and medieval frescoes that adorn the interior walls. Reflect in the peaceful churchyard, where centuries of local history lie in stone markers and weathered gravestones.
Travel to the nearby Hamar region for a visit to the open-air museum, Kulturminnesamlinga, showcasing traditional farmsteads and historical buildings. Chat with reenactors dressed in period clothing to learn about old farming methods, blacksmithing, and local folklore. Wander among heritage barns and discover seasonal crafts demonstrations in the museum barns.
Dine in a local inn offering homestyle Norwegian cooking and hearty, wood-fired dishes like lapskaus (stew). As dusk deepens, attend a folk music performance or storytelling session highlighting regional sagas. Unwind by an open stove with a steaming cup of herbal tea, absorbing the warm glow of oil lamps.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way) | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $70-120 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $60-110 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic lake-and-forest setting with easy access to outdoor activities
- Unique architecture like Mjøstårnet and a strong local food scene
- Smaller town amenities compared with larger cities
- Limited nightlife within Ringsaker itself; requires travel to Hamar/Lillehammer
- "Hei" - Hello
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Hvor mye koster det?" - How much does it cost?
- "Unnskyld" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Kan jeg få regningen, takk?" - May I have the bill, please?
- "Snakkes senere" - Talk to you later
Places to Visit in Ringsaker
Visit one of these nice places.
The world’s tallest wooden building provides striking architectural lines; shoot from the lakeside promenade or nearby public squares for dramatic captures.
Wide, tranquil lake views with piers and reflections, ideal for golden-hour landscape photography.
Historic rural church with a classic Nordic setting; great for architecture and seasonal outdoor shots.
A modern structure framing water reflections and surrounding hills, excellent for night and daytime shots.
Food in Ringsaker
Ringsaker Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cured salmon served with a tangy mustard-dill sauce, a refined starter often found in lakeside eateries.
Must-Try!
A thick porridge made from sour cream, typically served with sugar, cinnamon, and cured meat on the side.
Creamy fish soup featuring local whitefish and salmon, with vegetables and herbs.
Norwegian meatcakes served with potatoes, gravy, and lingonberries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls with locally grown produce, dairy, and handmade goods.
Casual stalls and food stalls along the lakeshore during the warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time and queued orderliness is valued; push to the front is generally discouraged.
Direct but polite; maintain a respectful tone in conversations.
Stay on marked trails, avoid littering, and respect wildlife and private property.
Safety
Tipping in Ringsaker
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not required in Norway, but rounding up a bill or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated in tourist areas.
Card payments (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments are common. Some smaller vendors may accept cash in NOK.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with mild to warm temperatures; outdoor events around Mjøsa, vibrant markets, and excellent light for photography and outdoor activities.
Colorful foliage and cooler days; ideal for landscape photography with golds and reds and harvest-season produce.
Snowy landscapes and shorter days; crisp light creates magical scenes, but be prepared for icy conditions.
Mild temperatures and blooming countryside; great for hikes and early-season photography with fresh greenery.
Ringsaker at Night
Hiking in Ringsaker
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic lakeside walking path along Brumunddal and Moelv with views of the water and surrounding hills.
A network of forested trails offering panoramic valley views and seasonal wildlife spotting.
Moderate loop through pine forests close to the lake, suitable for families and beginners.
Airports
How to reach Ringsaker by plane.
Main international hub; rail and road connections to Ringsaker via Hamar and the E6.
Serves northern routes and connections to central Norway; longer travel time to Ringsaker.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are local families and commuters to Hamar and Lillehammer.
Tourists and short-term visitors populate lakeside areas in summer.
Agricultural workers and rural residents form a strong part of the community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely enjoyed on well-groomed winter trails around Ringsaker.
Local clubs and casual games on community fields.
Angling on Lake Mjøsa and nearby rivers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ringsaker.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; look for salads, seasonal vegetables, and cheese-based dishes. When in doubt, ask for meat-free preparations or stock alternatives.