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Let us start with the name, Døss (dus). Dysse is similar to lull, as you do with a restless baby to comfort and soothe it down. The verb dysse becomes Døss. Local historians tell me this place was a graveyard during the Stone Age. As you walk into the woods behind the house, you see only moss grown stone fences, but you may feel the spirit world too, in all the peaceful greenery!
It is therefore no coincidence that Døss presents itself with some deep felt Peace that our visitors find comforting and soothing! This is the place to finish reading your book, buy another one (Tvedestrand also carries the name The Book Town) and climb into an easy chair for late hours - preferably outdoors, - while the sun is setting a spectacular scene for your intermissions. Except for the sun, early risers are a rarity. You will sleep well here!
Borøy is connected to the mainland by a bridge, with a fabulous view to the ocean and islands. A trip to Tvedestrand town takes about 15 minutes. The only road, leading to the bridge, has many narrow turns, so we urge you to drive slowly. There are people on Borøy that drive according to the bus schedule, - to avoid meeting the monster! All other transportation is by foot or boat. We often shop groceries by boat, for the charm and freedom of it all.
Come join us!
Seasons change and we love it that way! What is The Best Time? Depending on your preferences, here are some observations to help you make a better decision for your vacation weeks in Norway :
MAY 17th in Oslo is spectacular. Norway celebrates National (Independence) Day, - and most people, all ages are in their national costumes or "Sunday clothes". There is no age limit to carrying a small flag and hurraying! The school children walk in a procession along the main road, Karl Johan to greet King Harald and his family that are waving from the balcony of their castle. Most Norwegians feel close and proud of their monarchy.
On Borøy, the little community is walking along the shore, on a narrow path, stopping to sing, cheer and honor the National Day, including 7 cannon shots. Then we gather in our community house for coffee, waffles, ice cream and sodas. You are welcome to join us!
The weather in May is shifting, so bring warm and water proof clothes and shoes, as well as sunscreen. The air is clear and you are far north on the globe.
JUNE is a quiet time, before the tourists are swarming around. Some mountain roads are still closed by snow, but those open are phenomenal. Ask us or any tourist office for advice. Prices rise around June 20th for 2 months, it is vacation time and The "Market sets the Price"!
June is the start of new life, wild flowers are budding and bringing hopeful smiles to our people. We made it through another winter. It is time to ski in the high altitudes and get a deep tan. Or hike from hut to hut with a key in your pocket to self serve cabins in any mountain area. Lofoten is one of my favorites, as is Jotunheimen. Sunnmørsalpene has a high rating with my son. Norway offers an abundance of spectacular trips for the outdoorsy type!
June is a fine month to boat around the islands, - to enjoy the well kept summer cabins and the very old sailor homes. Some Norwegians cut wooden frames to their doors and windows, called it Carpenter’s Joy. Probably due to restless energy during the long winter months!
For boating there are ferries, and besides, here at Døss, we have a boat that takes up to 5 persons, for a reasonable price.
Fishing is free on the coastline.
JULY is the busiest time, for many reasons. The weather is usually at its best. So traditionally, most industry rest during in July, and people swarm the coastline. In Southern Europe this is true for August. Plan accordingly, if you go there as well. Hit or beat the crowd, according to your wishes and economy.
The best thing to do in July is to watch Natures Abundance, and enjoy the berries and early fruit in the market or in the wild. Strawberries, raspberries, cherries, and much more. Fishing picks up late July and when the mackerel is here, everybody is out there!
AUGUST brings shorter days so sleeping without a mask is soon possible. The blackberries and apples tempt us, and in the woods you may find lingonberries and wild mushrooms. Beware of the moose! They will not hurt you, and are stately, silent kings of the many forested areas. You will very likely see both moose and sheep, even cows trodding along the roads if you pass into the mountains, - so drive carefully and use your eyes. (Reindeer further north). Good moose weather is the dawn and dusk times along dirt roads or fields.
Around here, we still enjoy island trips, even staying there overnight. We bring some fire wood, food and friends to follow the sun below the horizon before you hit the sack. Always bring a cap or hood and maybe protection against humidity if out there on tiny islands in the ocean. We recommend the sky as your cover, not a tent.
Driving to the fjords may be just your thing! We have several suggestions for trips to Oslo, Bergen, Jotunheimen, Norwegian Alps, Lofoten and more!
SEPTEMBER has some spectacular skies at night. Maybe we appreciate clouds into the darkness more, - since the sky has been light for so many months! This is the time for hikes in the mountains and chats in front of the fire place afterwards. Be sure to buy (pick) local fruit, apples, plums, pears etc. Bring some warmer clothes and take ferries or other trips where the crisp fall wind caresses your face. Even now, sun glasses are useful.
Hopefully you will find your way to Døss, where you will be greeted as an old friend! We have already met, right? |