2_9_ScanMag_75_April_2015_Text_Q9_MADS_Scan Magazine 1 07/04/2015 21:42 Page 87
Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway
or exploring the woods in the forest train. Older children may want to attempt striking a hole-in-one on the 18-hole minigolf course, play bocce or football. “Children of all ages enjoy their time here, and we strive to make their time meaningful and void of all cares in the world. We realise that it’s difficult to keep all the family’s children entertained all at once, and that’s why we have brought in so many different activities in open territory – children can run around as they please, and parents don’t have to feel torn between the older and younger kids. Here, they can all have fun.”
families to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic in the grounds. “Most visitors choose to bring whatever they would like to eat, and then use one of our many grills completely free of charge. It’s a perfect way to enjoy time together as a family, in a relaxed setting, without spending a fortune on bought food,” says Helene, emphasising that the park’s encouragement to dine al fresco does not mean there are no treats available on-site. “Our strawberries are heavenly,” she muses, “and we make some really good chicken wraps. We also serve traditional Norwegian ‘rømmegrøt’, which is a hit with every age.”
The smallest rabbits and chickens
And, when the little animals, race cars and trains have you all worn out, there are theatrical plays to attend and meetand-greets with park mascot Foffa to be enjoyed. “Foffa is beyond popular,” explains Helene, adding: “Children flock
This is demonstrated by Foldvik’s great attention to animals, and their popularity among visitors. The park has been praised on numerous occasions for its animal friendliness, and the way animals are naturally incorporated into the park. “The farm animals are by far the most popular part of the park,” admits Helene, continuing: “We try and make each encounter between children and animals a meaningful one, letting children interact with animals and learn about them at the same time. The youngest kids particularly enjoy the roosters and chicks, not to mention the chicken incubator – where children can see how eggs are hatched and how chickens come into life and grow.” Helene explains that the small animals are, naturally, in demand with all visitors to the park. “Oh yes, the little rabbits are very popular… and the little goats! There is something therapeutic about them. Children become very calm in their presence, really taking in the importance of caring for the animal. We have had children with special needs come to the park and find a calm space in their everyday lives just by being around living creatures that give them something they can’t find anywhere else. For children who don’t have pets at home, it’s an especially wonderful experience.”
around him for cuddles and to get their pictures taken.” It just goes to show that Foldvik Family Park truly does live up to its motto – it’s a place where the best of memories are made.
For more information, please visit: foldvik.no
A park where good memories are made The experience of being close to nature is also reflected in the park’s backing of al fresco dining. Instead of focusing solely on purchasable food, the park encourages
The park’s many animals are very popular among all visitors – from birds and cows to the small rabbits, cats and goats.
Issue 75 | April 2015 | 87