Sauda - Fjord Norway

Sauda – a sanctuary between Preikestolen and Trolltunga

Sauda is a hidden gem at the innermost part of Ryfylke, perfectly located between iconic attractions like Preikestolen and Trolltunga, along the National Tourist Route Ryfylke. Here, you’ll find the perfect blend of urban comfort and spectacular nature. In the town center, you can enjoy great dining, visit the cinema, take a dip in the heated outdoor pool, or try the climbing wall at the new modern climbing hall (opening summer 2025). Surrounded by majestic mountains, Sauda is an ideal base for outdoor adventures year-round.

A town close to nature

Nestled by the fjord and surrounded by towering mountains, lush valleys, and powerful waterfalls – including the impressive Svandalsfossen – Sauda offers a charming mix of cozy cafés, unique boutique shops, and a variety of activities for the whole family. The town center is compact and walkable, with short distances between the outdoor pool, the cinema, the climbing hall, and the shopping streets.

Historic Åbøbyen, one of Sauda’s most unique neighborhoods, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. This architect-designed wooden housing area was originally built for the workers and officials of Sauda Smelteverk and consists of about 120 distinctive houses constructed over a 60-year period. Nearby, you’ll also find the family-friendly Andedammen and Sauda Minigolf, perfect stops for adventurers big and small.

Culture in Sauda – festivals and vibrant traditions

Sauda boasts a rich cultural life with festivals, concerts, and theater performances throughout the year. Folkets Hus, Sauda’s cultural center, is a vibrant venue that brings locals and visitors together for shows, concerts, and events.

Every year, on the last weekend of May, Sauda transforms into a lively celebration during the Saudadagane festival. The event celebrates the local community’s diversity with music, markets, entertainment, and activities for the whole family.

Allmannajuvet – spectacular architecture and industrial history

Allmannajuvet is one of Sauda’s most unique attractions, where dramatic nature meets groundbreaking architecture. From 1881 to 1899, the site was home to zinc mining operations, and today, visitors can explore this remarkable ravine and the architectural structures designed by renowned Swiss architect Peter Zumthor — and even join a guided mine expedition.

The area features a gallery, a café, and a mining exhibition that offers a glimpse into the harsh everyday life of the miners. The narrow road leading into the ravine takes you through a spectacular landscape showcasing the wild and untouched beauty of Sauda.

Skiing joy with a fjord view – Sauda Ski Center

Sauda enjoys snow-sure winters, with excellent conditions from New Year’s to Easter. Just 15 minutes from the town center, Sauda Ski Center is known for its unique fjord views straight from the slopes. With well-groomed runs for alpine skiing and snowboarding, child-friendly areas, and a modern lift system, it is one of the most popular ski resorts on the west coast of Norway.

For cross-country enthusiasts, over 100 km of prepared trails and two lighted tracks offer excellent opportunities for both classic and skate skiing.

Mountains and outdoor life – a paradise for adventurers

Sauda is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique combination of fjord, mountains, and waterfalls with endless adventure opportunities all year round. In summer, you can hike to iconic peaks like Hovlandsnuten (931 meters above sea level) and Skaulen (1,558 meters above sea level), explore hidden valleys, or paddle a kayak on serene fjords.

For families with children, Eventyrskogen (The Fairytale Forest) is a magical hiking destination, where a forest trail filled with wooden sculptures inspired by Norwegian folktales creates a truly special experience. If you seek a break with panoramic views of fjords and mountains, the day-trip cabin in Saudasjøen is a perfect resting spot.

Whether you're looking for adrenaline-pumping adventures or peaceful moments in beautiful nature, Sauda is an outdoor paradise you won’t want to miss.

Explore Sauda and the surrounding area

A taster of all the great attractions in the follows below.

Sauda Municipality – Spectacular Nature and Industrial History

The town of Sauda is surrounded by fjords, mountains, and rich opportunities for outdoor activities. Here, you'll find iconic attractions such as Svandalsfossen, a powerful waterfall along the National Tourist Route Ryfylke, and Allmannajuvet, where architecture and mining history come together.

En dame som kikker utover Lysefjorden fra utsiktspunktet på Høllesli.

Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke

The Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke through Ryfylke is one of the longest of Norway's 18 Scenic Routes. The route through Ryfylke, from Oanes by Lysefjorden to Hårå in Røldal, is 260 kilometres long and travels Rv. 13, Fv. 523 and Fv. 520.

See all attractions in Ryfylke

Travel inspiration

Here you will find a selection of articles that give you further insight in our region. Enjoy pages of inspiration and tailor the perfect trip for you.

Et ufo-formet bygg med en foss i bakgrunnen.

Experience world class modern and historic architecture in Ryfylke

The Architectural Route is part of the Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke, and is the only tourist route in Norway highlighting both modern and historic architecture in a day trip format. Along the route you are driving through a spectacular landscape over mountains and along fjords, rivers and lakes in Suldal, Sauda and Røldal.

Unike bord og stoler som minner om klynger av sopper.

Explore Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke

The drive along Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke is a journey of contrasts. You will experience everything from fertile hillsides, steep mountains and deep fjords to industrial history, architecture and local culinary traditions.

Create amazing summer memories with the whole family

A summer holiday is family time, and there are so many wonderful things to do in Haugesund and Ryfylke – for children and adults alike. Spend your holiday here and we guarantee a family holiday you won’t forget in a hurry!

En person som ligger i en seng med store vinduer og panoramautsikt over Lysefjorden.

Accommodation close to nature in Ryfylke

Travel slowly, stay in great accommodation and sample what Ryfylke has to offer. Whether you prefer campsites or hotels, whether you want to stay high up in the sky or down by the fjord, Ryfylke has accommodation to suit all tastes, occasions and price classes.

Activities near Sauda

There are lots of fun things to do in the beautiful area around the cozy town.

Sauda Ski Centre

Sauda Ski Centre Svandalen is situated approx. 8 km from Sauda town centre in Ryfylke.

Guided tours Allmannajuvet, Sauda

Join a guided tour in Allmannajuvet in Sauda, Ryfylke. It will be daily guiding throughout the summer season. Listen to the story of the mining adventure and get a taste of how life inside the mines was in the late 1800's.

Hovlandsnuten - hike in Sauda

Hovlandsnuten in Sauda, Ryfylke, is an easily accessible hike suitable for most people. Highlights are Eventyrskogen, the Sherpa steps and the cabin at the top.

Nordag - hiking trail along war memorials in Saudasjøen

Discover the fascinating history of Sauda during World War II! The trail takes you through the historical tracks and war memorials.

Marked ski trails in Sauda

In Sauda, Ryfylke, there are over 100 km of marked ski trails in eight valleys. Sauda is a popular destination for cross-country skiing, randonee and slalom.

Mining gallery in Allmannajuvet in Sauda

The Allmannajuvet zinc mines are located along the Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke in Sauda. The famous Swiss architect Peter Zumthor has designed the facility.

Industrial Workers Museum and Åbøbyen in Sauda (Ryfylkemuseet)

Åbøbyen in Sauda in Ryfylke, is one of the best-preserved residential areas for industrial and office workers built during the establishment of energy-intensive industry in Norway.

Round the Åbødalen valley in Sauda

Around the Åbødalen valley in Sauda, Ryfylke, is a marked and prepared cross-country ski trail. It is child-friendly, but has some steep climbs and descents.

Maldal

Nice round walk in lush cultural landscape. View of the fjord and the mountains. Past a series of barns and sheds, each with its own unique history.

Jonestølen in Sauda

The hike to the idyllic Jonestølen in Sauda is moderate and around three kilometers.

Bike rental at Sauda Ski Centre

Sauda ski centre rents out six electric bikes. The ski centre is located in Svandalen, about 8 km from the centre of Sauda in Ryfylke.

Rundehaugen - hike

From Rundehaugen (480 masl) you can see the most of Sauda in Ryfylke. At the top there is a cabin, bench, book and a map.

All activities related to Sauda

Things to do in Sauda

Here is a list of things to do in Sauda, today or in the coming days.

How to get there

Are you travelling by car or public transport? Wondering how to get there? We can help you!

Getting to and around Ryfylke See the map

Dining and accommodation near Sauda

Here is an overview of restaurants and accommodation near Sauda.

Historical Sauda Klubb in Sauda

Sauda Klubb is a historical building located centrally in Åbøbyen in Sauda, Ryfylke. You can rent the unique house can for small and large gatherings.

Sauda Fjord Camping

Sauda Fjord Camping is located by the Saudafjord in Ryfylke. The campsite is open all year, but in winter you have to book in advance.

Kløver Hotel, Sauda

Kløver Hotel is ideal for your fjord holiday in Ryfylke. The hotel is situated in the heart of Sauda, a town at the head of the Saudafjord.

Sauda guest harbour

Sauda Motorboat Association in Sauda, Ryfylke, has a harbour with 20 guest berths and 30 motorhome spaces.

Glamping at Handeland Lodge in Sauda

Along Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke at Handeland Lodge in Sauda, you can spend the night in a dome with panoramic views of Saudafjellet.

Minnehaugen Turisthytte in Sauda

Minnehaugen Turisthytte is located in Slettedalen, half an hour's drive from Sauda town centre, towards Røldal and Hellandbygd. The cabin has 18 beds.

All accommodations related to Sauda

Upcoming events

You may also be interested in

Allmannajuvet

As part of the establishment of the Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke, renowned Swiss architect Peter Zumthor designed new facilities at Allmannajuvet gorge in Sauda in Ryfylke.

Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke

Sand

Sand in Suldal, beautifully situated on the Sandsfjord, has preserved much of its historic character, with clusters of charming, white wooden houses. The Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke passes through Sand.