Våler in Østfold can be explored through very different themes: Bergtunet and Våler kirke lead to historic buildings and memorabilia, while Vansjø offers opportunities for paddling and fishing. There is also the Middagsåsen sportssenter for alpine skiing and snowboarding, as well as swimming spots and a hike with views over the lake. Which side takes centre stage depends on your interests and the time of year you travel.
Farm history and a medieval church
Bergtunet is a former district governor’s residence with eight buildings. These include a main building and a stabbur, a traditional storehouse, dating from the 1830s; the complex also comprises a collection of older houses and objects, as well as a defence museum with memorabilia from the Second World War. The buildings and collections give the place several historical points of interest, rather than focusing attention on a single structure.
The Våler hjemmefrontmuseum is also located at Bergtunet and is run by Forsvarsforeningen i Våler. It complements the collection of houses and objects with memorabilia from the Second World War. Those interested in this period can therefore explore the museum alongside the historic farm complex.
Våler kirke represents a different period: the stone church was built around 1190 and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Its approximate date places it in a much earlier historical context than the stabbur from the 1830s. In Våler, the history of the medieval church and that of the former district governor’s residence and its collections thus sit side by side.
The Bygdedagene are held at Bergtunet every year in June. If you want to plan your visit around them, check the specific date, as it may change from year to year.
Winter sports and seasonal dates
Middagsåsen sportssenter is an alpine sports centre in Våler for alpine skiers and snowboarders. It has three runs: a children’s slope, a family slope and a slope dedicated to the park. The three types of runs are therefore distinguished by their names. Since operating details can change between winter seasons, it is a good idea to check the latest information before your visit.
The Bygdedagene in June and winter sports at Middagsåsen provide two different seasonal reference points for planning. The event date is not the same every year, and the sports centre’s operating details may change from one winter season to the next. Plan accordingly, using the relevant dates and seasonal information.
At Vansjø: paddle, fish and swim
Vansjø stretches through large parts of Våler. You can paddle a canoe or kayak between the lake’s many islands and bays; check water conditions locally. Fishing is also possible: pike, perch and trout can be caught in Vansjø. Paddling between islands and bays and fishing for three different species are two distinct ways to experience the lake.
For a swimming stop, there is Rødssund at Rødsbrua, among other places. This swimming spot in Våler has a large beach and a large grassy area. The ferry landing area at Dillingøy is also a swimming spot; it has a grassy area and some shade from trees. When comparing the locations, the beach and grassy area at Rødssund and the grass and tree shade at Dillingøy are the specific differences. Facilities at public recreation areas may change seasonally; check conditions before your visit.
Another way to combine water and scenery is to hike to Brønnerødtjernet in Våler. There are opportunities to swim there, and some of the rises along the water offer views over the lake. Routes and swimming conditions may vary; check the situation locally before planning your visit.
On foot and by bike
A walking and cycling connection is another local feature: in 2025, Våler got a path running from Augerød via Moss and Våler business park to the junction for Såner on Fylkesvei 1026. The path adds another focus for trip planning alongside the historic sites, winter sports and activities by the water.
You can shape your visit to Våler around your interests: Bergtunet and the church offer different historical points of interest, Middagsåsen is for alpine skiing and snowboarding, and Vansjø is all about paddling, fishing and swimming spots. For practical planning, the key considerations are seasonal operating details, the dates of the Bygdedagene, and local water and trail conditions.
Discover more destinations: Sperrebotn, Aremark, Rakkestad, Trøgstad, Sarpsborg, Hobøl, Råde, Hvaler.
Return to the main travel overview: Østfold.
