Although Drøbak’s narrow streets still have a long way to go when it comes to facilitation and universal design, much has improved in recent years.
Wheelchair user and Drøbak enthusiast Nicho Arnesen has compiled some of the best travel tips to Frogn and Drøbak for people with various disabilities, with a special focus on wheelchair users.
What’s the best thing about living in Drøbak?
The best thing about living here is the people and that it’s a bit rural. There’s not much that beats the summer town of Drøbak. I love big cities, but to live in, Drøbak is absolutely perfect. A short distance to Oslo is also nice, but it’s nice not to live completely away from the bustle of the big city.
Which places and attractions in Drøbak and Frogn are well adapted for wheelchair users?
Bølgen bath and activity centre, Reenskaug Hotel, Drøbak Aquarium and the shopping centre AMFi Drøbak City are probably the places that are almost 100% adapted for wheelchair users. But I manage pretty much okay everywhere in Drøbak. The park has also become very good in recent years.
But in winter there may be days when Drøbak city centre in particular is a little poorly shoveled.
How is Oscarsborg Fortress organised?
The ferry ride over to the island is very good, as is getting on board and going ashore. In the summer there are many trails you can walk on, so this is also positive.
Are there any restaurants that you would recommend?
The restaurant at Reenskaug Hotel “The Lobby” is probably the best of all and they have many exciting dishes that should be tried. I also recommend Kumlegaarden, which has delicious food and generous portions, they have an edge that I can get up, but they also provide a ramp if you wish. Cafe Sjøstjernen is also well organised. One of my favourites in Drøbak is also Galleri Cafe Teskje, even though the room is a bit cramped in some places, this is something that must be experienced. The pizza at Handelshuset is also very good, but the entrance can present challenges for many.
What does a perfect Sunday in Drøbak look like for you?
In the summer, the park and life in the city centre is absolutely magical.
Visiting the garden of Galleri Cafe Teskje, for example, and savouring some of the tasty food that owner Benjamin makes.
What can the attractions in Frogn do to be better?
Many of the shops and eateries should have made sure to make the entrance easier for people in wheelchairs. With simple small fixed ramps, which you do not have to ask for help would have been the optimum.
I think the square street from the intersection and over to Drøbak square should be a pedestrian street, so that the offers located there could make entrances that are better adapted for people in wheelchairs.