A string of bucket list experiences

Pulpit Rock – ranked the world’s most spectacular viewpoint

Both CNN and Lonely Plant have ranked Pulpit Rock the most beautiful viewpoint in the world. The BBC described it as ‘so magical it almost doesn’t seem real’. The superlatives abound when you try to describe Pulpit Rock, and with good reason. It towers 604 metres above the Lysefjord, culminating in a 25 x 25 metre plateau. The view is simply breathtaking. A small tip: If you want to do the trip with as few other people as possible, take a sunrise trip – before the sun and most people have got up! It’s worth the effort, and guaranteed to be a magical experience.

Sandvesanden beach – a hidden gem in the west

And while we’re on the subject of magical experiences, Karmøy is known far and wide for its many white sandy beaches along its outer coast. 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, a five-minute drive from the summer town, Skudeneshavn. Sandvesanden is a popular haunt among local surfers, and for sunbathing, playing volleyball, having barbecues, going on lovely evening walks as the sun sets or to experience the bracing weather of Western Norway. Recommended!

Flokehyttene cabins – if you’re lucky, you may be able to rent one soon

Sometimes a Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) cabin is not quite what you imagined. That's certainly the case for the Flokehyttene cabins. DNT launched these cabins in 2020, and they were all fully booked for months ahead within just a few days.

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 ahead, but you may be lucky and get a cancellation. So be ready to jump at the chance!

Kjeragbolten – the majesty of the Lysefjord

You will definitely have seen people posing on the Kjeragbolten rock formation in social media. 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 Pulpit Rock. The hike is considered slightly more challenging than that to Pulpit Rock, and is estimated to take around six hours.

If you’re not afraid of heights, you can walk out onto the rock itself and capture the moment in the mind-blowing landscape forever. Others may be happy to admire the spectacular phenomenon from a distance. Kjerag is considered the majesty of the Lysefjord, and belongs on any bucket list.

Utsira – Norway’s smallest municipality

Would you like to experience life in an authentic island community with a population of just over 200? And that is Norway’s smallest municipality to boot? Then head for Utsira.

There is something very special about this place. Quiet, but nonetheless hardworking. 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 Dahmsgård? They’re happy to open their doors and kitchen to visitors travelling alone or in groups (remember to book in advance). Utsira is also known for impressive street art!

Kleppa Gard og Glamping – Dome at the edge of the sea

You can spend the night in a luxury tent (known as a dome) at Kleppa Gard & Glamping in a lovely little inlet beside a sandy beach. Wake to the sound of waves lapping the shore and go for a refreshing dip in the sea – before enjoying your coffee in the beautiful surroundings. The perfect place for peace and wellbeing or to go for a hike or hire a SUP. And, if that’s not enough, the sunsets here are nothing short of magical!

And if you’re still in doubt – head for Ryfylke and Haugalandet for great experiences!