Hugging the western shore of the Oslo Fjord, Vestby is a sprawling municipality in Norway’s south. It is named after a farm that once occupied the site, although archaeological evidence suggests the region has been inhabited since 2,400 BC. Modern-day Vestby encompasses the administrative hub of Vestby, as well as the villages of Hølen, Hvitsten, Garder and Son.

Things to do

One of Vestby’s most popular attractions is Ramme Gaard, a country estate and organic farm owned by the billionaire Norwegian businessman, Petter Olsen. You can stroll between the sculptures, fountains and ponds of the Baroque Garden, get up close to domesticated farm animals or dine on organic produce at the on-site restaurant. Events and performances are regularly held in the open-air amphitheatre.

If you’re after a retail fix, head to the Oslo Fashion Outlet to find around 55 brand stores offering significant discounts. You can pick up a bargain at Levi’s, Boss or Tommy Hilfiger, with everything from sportswear to lingerie and outdoor gear for sale. There are a handful of cafes and restaurants where you can dine throughout the day, including Tapaz, which features its own children’s playroom.

Visiting in the summer months? Relax on one of the picturesque beaches lining Vestby’s coastline or rent a boat to visit the nearby island of Nordre Sauholmen. You can splash around in the shallow waters of Hulvik and enjoy the diving board at Son Beach or stretch your legs on a stroll around Kjøvangen.

Getting around

Vestby is around 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of Oslo and just over an hour from Oslo Airport. Regular trains connect to the Vestby railway station and buses travel throughout the municipality. The centre of Vestby village is small enough to explore on foot.