Østensjøvannet is a small lake in the southeastern part of Oslo, and it is a surprisingly rich nature reserve in the middle of the suburbs. As many as 200 different bird species have been observed here, many of them on the Norwegian red list of endangered species. There are also eight bat species, over 1,800 types of insects, and the lake has the largest variety of water and swamp plants in Oslo.
A flat path loops around the entire lake, taking roughly an hour and a half at a relaxed pace. The landscape alternates between open meadows, marshland, patches of forest and waterfront stretches with views across the reeds. It is a calm, quiet walk that feels far removed from the city, even though apartment blocks are visible on the hillsides around it.
This is not a classic tourist attraction, and you will mostly meet local dog walkers and birdwatchers. But if you are interested in nature and want a break from museums and buildings, it is an enjoyable excursion. You reach Østensjøvannet by taking bus 70 to Bogerudmyra.
A flat path loops around the entire lake, taking roughly an hour and a half at a relaxed pace. The landscape alternates between open meadows, marshland, patches of forest and waterfront stretches with views across the reeds. It is a calm, quiet walk that feels far removed from the city, even though apartment blocks are visible on the hillsides around it.
This is not a classic tourist attraction, and you will mostly meet local dog walkers and birdwatchers. But if you are interested in nature and want a break from museums and buildings, it is an enjoyable excursion. You reach Østensjøvannet by taking bus 70 to Bogerudmyra.