Experience Norways’ national treasures by car

The Viking Farm – where Vikings reigned for hundreds of years

Travel back in time and learn about Norway’s Viking history at the Viking Farm in Avaldsnes. It was here that King Harald Fairhair and his successors had their royal seat for almost 500 years. The Vikings left traces of towering burial mounds, standing stones and rich historical finds. The Nordvegen History Centre, the Viking Farm on Bukkøy and the medieval St Olav’s Church are incredible gems that you simply must experience! Combine a visit to Avaldsnes with a trip to Haugesund town centre and the Viking Planet for a digital dive into fascinating history.

Haraldshaugen – Norway's only national monument

The national monument Haraldshaugen is located close to the centre of Haugesund and was erected to commemorate the unification of Norway into one kingdom by Harald Fairhair in 872. A thousand years later, the monument was erected on the spot where, according to the saga, Norway was united into one kingdom.

The Rising Tide – horse sculptures in Kvalsvik

'The Rising Tide' by Jason DeCaires Taylor was originally exhibited on the Thames in London, but today the exhibition with the four horse sculptures can be seen near Kvalsvik in Haugesund. It’s perfect to combine with a walk along the coastal path and a refreshing swim in Kvalsvik.

Smedasundet strait and Indre kai quay – can be enjoyed from the land or sea

Smedasundet strait and Indre kai quay are situated in the heart of Haugesund. The town, best known for festivals such as Sildajazz and the Norwegian Film Festival, has a bustling urban centre, restaurants, bars and hotels. It’s the perfect place to stop for a break on a car holiday, boat trip or for a stay at the marina in Smedasundet strait.

Skudeneshavn – the charming town on the southern tip of the island of Karmøy

At the southern tip of Karmøy lies the charming, white-painted sailing ship town of Skudeneshavn. The well preserved old town dates back to the herring fisheries of the early 19th century. Old Skudeneshavn is one of Norway’s best preserved coastal towns and is listed in the Directorate for Cultural Heritage’s exclusive list of protected cultural environments. It's lovely to wander the streets, visit Skudeneshavn Museum, enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes, and walk up to the park to admire the view.

Langfoss – one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world

The Åkrafjord is a beautiful yet lesser-known fjord with steep mountainsides and a lush cultural landscape. The biggest attraction on the fjord is undoubtedly the mighty Langfoss waterfall with its fall of 612 metres. Don't forget to take a trip to Åkrafjordtunet, where you’ll find a café, different accommodation options and a good selection of local foods on sale.

Explore the fjords

Rødne Fjord Cruise offers a fjord cruise into the Lysefjord. Their boats have panoramic windows and large decks, perfect for enjoying the magical fjord landscape. You’ll get close to Fantahålå cave and Hengjanefoss waterfall, and taste the fresh mountain water. The highlight is of course seeing Preikestolen Pulpit Rock towering high above the fjord. In the summer, you can also take a fjord cruise to the roadless village of Flørli, midway along the Lysefjord, and experience the little-known gems Jøsenfjord and Hylsfjord.

The spectacular Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke

Explore the Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke – one of Norway’s eighteen national scenic routes. The 260 kilometre stretch of road between Oanes on the Lysefjord and Hårå in Røldal is just full of contrasts. It offers everything from industrial history, architecture and local food traditions to unique stopping places with stunning views of the fjord and mountains.

Modern and historical architecture

The northern part of the Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke is known as the Architectural Roundtrip. The roundtrip is the only scenic route where you get to experience both modern and historical architecture in the course of a single day, through the spectacular scenery of Suldal, Sauda and Røldal.

Flor & Fjære – exotic flower park

Flor & Fjære on the island of Sør-Hidle in Ryfylke offers an exotic experience with colourful flowers, palm trees, carp, small waterfalls and white beaches. The visit combines a fjord cruise from Stavanger, a guided tour of the garden and tasty dishes made from local ingredients.

Taste local quality products

In Ryfylke you can enjoy world-class local produce. Join us on a guided tour and tasting among the apple trees and grape vines, see how smoked salmon is made and visit farm shops with untravelled cheese, eggs and meat.

Regardless of the time of year you visit the region, you will find places to eat serving the most delicious dishes made from local ingredients.