Uteservering (Outdoor seating)
There is no lack of outdoor seating spaces in Norway, from park picnic tables to cushion-filled café benches. When I first arrived in Norway, I was charmed by the vast sitting spaces throughout the cities, towns, and nature areas. People could be seen resting, chatting, and drinking coffee. Then there were individuals who sat quietly facing the sun, simply smiling with their eyes closed. Initially, I didn’t quite understand the ‘sun-sitting’, but after surviving the dark days of winter in Norway, I now get it. The dearth of sunshine for 4-5 months can take a toll on the physical and emotional wellness of folks. However, the sunshine quickly restores the soul and warms the spirit.
A picnic bench along the walking trail in Molde.
Sitting spaces aren’t just for basking in the sun, however. They serve as an opportunity to hvile or rest, physically and mentally. There are walking paths and trails both inside, outside, and nearby all large cities and small towns, and all have benches or picnic tables placed periodically along the routes. People stop for a coffee break or just pause to enjoy the stillness and beauty of nature.
A bench along the walking path in Molde.
Within the cities, coffee shops, bars, and restaurants all feature outdoor sitting spaces. Not only are chairs and benches available, but so are animal hides that serve as chair cushions (and insulators) and blankets. During the winter’s snowy season, the spaces may be closed, but only after the hides and blankets couldn’t accommodate the cold. Perhaps it’s a sign of spring, but outdoor seating spaces are open once again with the animal hides and blankets.
Sitting space outside of a pub in Stavanger.
Coffee shops also offer lovely little sitting spots with seasonal blankets and pillows, as well as live plants or flowers, candles, and decorations. Friends, families, and couples gather to enjoy coffee, foods such as boller (rolls) kaken (cake), and of course the fresh air. Children enjoy a kanelbolle (cinnamon roll) or kjeks (cookie) and talk with those next to them. They are engaged in conversation, not silenced with screentime.
Blankets allow customers to enjoy their coffee outside in the winter.
Another wonderful aspect of visiting these eating and meeting spaces is that there is no time limit. No one will ask you to leave to make room for the next customer. No one will ask you to order more coffee or food if you’d like to linger longer. As a customer, you are entitled to that space for as long as you want. Imagine that- time to rest, relax, and converse.
Cushions, pillows, and blankets are plentiful at this café.
Admittedly, I have difficulties sitting still for long periods of time. I have a (perhaps unhealthy) need to stay busy and productive. However, the ever-present reminders to rest and relish the moments in Norway have been extremely beneficial for me. I am learning to stop and slow down, savor the pastries and coffee, and delight in the quiet moments.
A resting bench outside a shop in Stavanger.
