Our history

Fossen Friluft was founded in 2012 by David Breien and Espen Sparstad, with Vertikal AS from Hemsedal also joining as part-owners. We started as a niche outdoor life store in Hønefoss, but the goal was always to share nature experiences with everyone. In particular, we wanted to provide outdoor adventures for children and young people with special needs, as well as others who had fallen a bit outside of society. The early years were tough, but through hard work, we slowly but surely made progress.

After some time, Kristoffer Nikolaisen also joined as a co-owner. Gradually, we managed to focus more on taking people out into nature. In 2013, our idea for an alternative respite care service came to life. This was to be an outdoor offering that showcased the grandeur of nature in every season, focusing on mastery, cooperation, joy, and new experiences.

In 2014, we were contacted by then-mayor of Ringerike, Kjell B. Hansen, who asked us to take over the operation of Ringkollstua. It didn’t take us long to say yes – Ringkollstua fit perfectly into our plans. We packed up the store in Hønefoss and moved into the woods. Now we could focus on what we were truly passionate about: sharing experiences in nature!

In 2016, both Kristoffer and David stepped away from the company, leaving Espen Sparstad to run the business.

Over the past five years, Fossen Friluft has continued to grow and develop, now operating through three main pillars:

Nature-based tourism – trips and experiences for the private market.
Corporate events and team-building – tailored for businesses.
Social entrepreneurship – offering alternative educational arenas and respite care services.