Check out this inspiration guide and let us show you why Haugesund and Ryfylke are a great choice for your next holiday!
Both CNN and Lonely Plant have ranked Preikestolen as the most beautiful viewpoint in the world. The BBC described it as ‘so magical it almost doesn’t seem real’. The spectacular view from the 25x25 meter mountain plateau, 604 meters above the Lysefjord, is simply breathtaking. For a magical experience without the crowds, take a sunrise hike to Preikestolen.
While we’re on the subject of magical experiences, a drive from Åkrehamn to Skudeneshavn will take you past mile upon mile of sandy beaches to your left. One of the most beautiful and perhaps most hidden of these beaches is Sandvesanden, just a five-minute drive from the summer town of Skudeneshavn. Sandvesanden beach is a popular haunt among local surfers and is great for sunbathing, playing volleyball, barbecues, lovely evening walks as the sun sets, or for experiencing the bracing weather of Western Norway.
Sometimes a Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) cabin is not quite what you imagined. That's certainly the case for the Flokehyttene cabins. The cabins are small, but their design draws the landscape in. The cabins are 18 square metres and can sleep five, and they have a kitchen, living area and toilet. (One of the cabins is twice this size, can sleep ten and is wheelchair friendly). All the cabins have a fireplace, where you can sit snug inside while you watch (preferably) the weather rage outside (works well in good weather too) .
Most of these cabins are unfortunately fully booked for months in advance, but if you’re lucky there may be a cancellation. So be ready to jump at the chance!
A huge rock wedged between a massive cleft in the mountain, 1,084 metres above the Lysefjord. This is Kjeragbolten, a summit trip in the same area as Preikestolen. The hike is more demanding than Preikestolen, but the panoramic view of the fjord is worth all the effort.
Kjerag is considered the majesty of the Lysefjord, and deserves to belong on any bucket list.
Would you like to experience life in an authentic island community with a population of barely 200? Then head for Utsira. There is something very special about this place. Quiet, but nonetheless industrious. Reserved, but nonetheless proud and resolute. The island offers accommodation, activities and delicious culinary experiences. For example, have you heard of Daniella and Hans and their seafood restaurant Dahmsgaard? Dahmsgaard is happy to open its doors and kitchen to visitors travelling alone or in groups (remember to book in advance). Utsira is also known for its impressive street art!
The world-renowned Swiss architect Peter Zumthor has designed a facility at the abandoned zinc mines in Allmannajuvet gorge in Sauda in Ryfylke. The unique facility consists of a toilet building, café and a gallery that conveys and allows you to experience mining history.
In the summer, you can join a guided mining tour, check out the gallery or enjoy a simple meal with great views from the café.
If you’re still in any doubt – Ryfylke and Haugalandet offer amazing experiences!