elusive moose » Rakkestad

As spotted on the way to Linnekleppen

admin — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 10:41:47 +0000

Top 5: Things to do around Rakkestad

admin — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 10:33:53 +0000

- Rudskogen Motor Park: Norway’s largest motor-racing circuit, partly owned by Michael Schumacher, hosts big events throughout the summer, and attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year. More info at www.rudskogen.no (Norwegian only)

- Lannem Pottery: One of Norway’s oldest, using local clay exclusively. Their products are on sale through many outlets in Norway, including at Gardermoen Airport and on the Hurtigruen, as well as in the shop here. More info at http://www.elusivemoose.eu/2010/03/11/

- Hiking: The area around Rakkestad is great for hiking. The walk to Linnekleppen fire watch-tower is a popular one, but the whole of the Rakkestadfjella is worth exploring. More info at http://www.elusivemoose.eu/2009/11/18/

- Fishing: There are myriads of lakes of all sizes in the area, making this a great destination for fishing. Two of the largest ones are Frønesjøen and Kløsa, both easily accessible.

- Buer bakkene (Os): A lovely spot along Varteigveien, and a great stretch of road to cycle or go for a drive. Particularly lovely in early summer when wild flowers line the roadside and the ripening crops in the surrounding fields lend colour to this already beautiful landscape.

Supporting local artisans

admin — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:45:15 +0000

Lannem Pottery

admin — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:42:27 +0000

Established for over 50 years, Lannem Pottery, located just outside Rakkestad in Indre-Østfold, is one of the oldest in Norway. Here you can watch the local potter at work in the studio, shaping the clay on his wheel, before browsing the big showroom for the finished product – an extensive range of Lannem earthenware and ceramics are on sale, with a range of colours and models to choose from. Bargain hunters should look out for the second grade products (products with minor flaws, yet fully usable) not retailing in other shops, but available at a good price at Lannem. Østfoldstua, the onsite cafe, is a cosy place if you fancy a hot drink or a waffle, and there are picnic tables outside should you visit on a sunny summer day.

Along Rv22, 4km north of Rakkestad. Tel: 69 22 20 12, www.lannem.no. Opening times: Mon-Fri 1000-1630 (Thur until 1800), Sat 1000-1400. Closed Sundays.

Rakkestadfjella, Indre Østfold

admin — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:30:52 +0000

Rakkestadfjella is the largest continous forested area in Indre Østfold. With over 80km of marked trails and 70km of cross-country skiing trails, it’s a great recreation area right in the middle of the wilderness, used by locals in both summer and winter. Pine forests dominate the landscape, which is dotted with ponds, lakes and marshes. You can swim and fish in many lakes in summer, and ice-skate and go cross-country skiing in winter.

One of the easiest ways to access Rakkestadfjella is to drive to Skrabberud, from which trails lead in various directions. Follow road 124 from Rakkestad – you’ll see a sign on your left after about 6.5km, then follow the dirt road for another 7km. There is a 20kr toll on the way.

South of Rakkestadfjella lies Linnekleppen, one of the best viewpoints in Østfold. On a clear day, and armed with a good pair of binoculars, you can make out Gaustatoppen at Rjukan on the other side of the Oslo Fjord. See separate entry on this blog at http://www.elusivemoose.eu/2009/10/walk-linnekleppen/

Østfold in Pictures: Hageholttjern, Marker

admin — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 17:01:52 +0000

Walking in Østfold: Linnekleppen, Rakkestad

admin — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 16:49:45 +0000

Like walking? There is no shortage of places to explore in Østfold, but one of my all time favourite walks around here is the one going to Linnekleppen, northern Europe’s only remaining manned fire watchtower. From the starting point in the Marker municipality, 17km southeast of Rakkestad on Rv105, the walk is clearly marked, and takes about an hour each way. The panorama from the top of the 17m high tower is breathtaking, with forest stretching as far as the eye can see. Pack a picnic (there are picnic tables at the tower) and don’t forget your camera!