Norwegians like to see themselves as sporty, outdoor types – hardly surprisingly for a people who are surrounded by forests and mountains in every direction.
Eight out of ten Norwegians claim that they regularly go hiking; four out of ten enjoy skiing. In fact, we spend most of our weekends – and especially Sundays – in the open air. Here’s a recipe for a typical Norwegian Sunday:
After a whole week in the office, many Norwegians are keen for some fresh air. This takes the form of training, light exercise or simply being out of doors. Generations have grown up believing that outdoor life is an essential part of being Norwegian. The Sunday Walk is part of our identity. What’s more, surveys show a rising trend, with young people and the highly educated being most active.
Background
The tradition for hiking goes back at least a century. Part of the honour for its popularity may be attributed to the Norwegian pioneer, pole explorer and scientist, Fridtjof Nansen. Inspired by Nansen’s arctic expeditions, people in Olso began hiking in their leisure time. Today, Norwegians head for the countryside primarily to unwind from the stress and strain of daily life.
The typical Norwegian Sunday for a typical Norwegian starts early. If you want to make the most of a day in the country, it’s no good snoozing in bed. In and around large towns, Sunday excursions are so popular that you’ve got to be quick off the mark to find a parking space! In the Røros region, however, we are fortunate to have unlimited space and great hiking trails on our doorstep, the whole year round.
Preparation and Packing
The Norwegians have a saying – ‘You can’t be a hero on an empty stomach’. A good, solid Sunday breakfast will give you the strength and energy to face the challenges of the great outdoors. A proper Sunday breakfast should include cooked egg, bread, cheese, caviar, jam and, of course, coffee and a glass of cold milk.
If you want to be like a real Norwegian, you must have a backpack. Put in some extra clothes (because you never know which way the weather will turn in the Norwegian countryside – you may leave in sunshine and come home in a snowstorm) and a packed lunch. A couple of slices of bread and goat’s cheese, and a couple with salami, will provide both sweet and savoury. Naturally, you’ll take a thermos of coffee or a storm kettle – and don’t forget a map and compass.
Off you go!
Now you are almost ready for your Sunday outing. All that remains is the outfit. Other Europeans dress nicely and visit cafes and bars; Norwegians pull on outdoor clothes or sports gear, preferably a comfy old anorak or modern water- and windproof trousers and a bright-coloured jacket. You should invest in a solid pair of walking boots and top it off with a cheerful hat.
So now you are all ready and equipped like a true Norwegian! Pick a good nearby destination and get ready to discover how that Sunday hike will invigorate you with surplus energy for a whole new week. Put this authentic travel experience at the top of your wish list. We are waiting for you, with open expanses of countryside and a big heart.
Norwegian style cosiness
Norwegians relax best when they feel they have deserved a reward for hard work. After a good tiring Sunday outing, Norwegians – and you – deserve waffles or pancakes. Here is a recipe for cosiness, Norwegian style:
Pancakes for 4
2 eggs
2.5 dl milk
1 dl flour
½ tsp sugar
½ tsp salt
In Norway, pancakes are considered a dinner.
Mix together the flour, sugar and salt. Add roughly half the milk and whisk to a smooth, thick batter. Add the rest of the milk, whisk in the eggs and let the mixture swell for at least half an hour or overnight.
Melt some butter in a warm frying pan. Pour some of the batter into the pan and tip to coat it evenly. Turn the pancake when it has set on the top and is golden brown underneath.
Add the filling of your choice. Norwegians prefer blueberry jam and bacon. Mmm!
Waffles for 4
2 eggs
0.5 l milk
120 g crème fraiche
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp vanilla essence
1 tsp bicarb of soda
2 dl porridge oats
Approx. 4 dl flour
Whisk the eggs and sugar lightly, then mix in the dry and wet ingredients alternately. Add enough flour to mix to a smooth batter. Let this stand and swell for at least half an hour before ladling into a preheated waffle iron.
Use a topping of your choice. Norwegians’ favourite is jam and crème fraiche or soured cream and (brown) goat’s cheese. Enjoy, Norwegians have voted these the best waffles in the world!
