Skovly naturistsenter

Norway's oldest naturist centre, bought by organised naturists in 1968: about five hectares of woodland and large meadows on the shore of Lake Femsjøen, a few kilometres north-east of Halden, near the Swedish border. You sleep in the main house from 1905, with six rooms upstairs and a shared kitchen and living room, in a cabin by the lake or in a tent on the meadow; there is also room for a few motorhomes and small caravans. It is a deliberately basic place: no mains electricity, lighting from solar panels, well water and outdoor toilets. On the lakeshore there are jetties, a shallow beach suitable for children, the wood-fired sauna and a wood-heated hot shower; canoes can be borrowed and there is fishing. In the evening people gather around the big barbecue. The centre is a members' cooperative: in summer there are families acting as hosts, and everyone is asked to do a bit of work for the community. Dogs are allowed, provided they are kept under control. Access is reserved for members of naturist federations, and nudity is welcome everywhere when the weather allows. Regulars speak of peace, nature and a family atmosphere, and mention a somewhat demanding access along a dirt road.