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.
The Allmannajuvet zinc mines were in operation from 1881 to 1899. During these years a total of 12,000 tonnes of zinc ore were extracted. Today, the mining area is a museum. Designed by Peter Zumthor and opened in 2016. The buildings in the gorge are designed in an industrial construction style to embody the story of the mines. The installation consists of a gallery, a café building, toilet and parking facilities, paths and stairs.
For opening hours, contact Sauda Ferie og Fritid.
Geir Grung (1926 – 1989) designed the hydro power station, which opened in 1965, housing, and the hotel, Energihotellet, which is located beside the hydro power development plant in Røldal - Suldal.
The area is one of the best-preserved examples of the functionalistic style in Norway. Park your car at Energihotellet and take a stroll down to the power station and residental area.
Høsebrua lies in the village of Sand in Suldal. The bridge is a footbridge over the Suldalslågen salmon river. It lights up beautifully on dark autumn and winter nights and leads to the recreational area across the river. The bridge won Bridge of the Year from Travel + Leisure Magazine in 2014.
Architect: Sami Rintala/ Eggertsson og Ivan Kroupa.
For more information: www.visitsuldal.no
On the north side of the Sandsfjord Bridge in Suldal, Ryfylke, there is a new spectacular rest area, Ostateidn, inspired by Lars Hertervig’s dramatic paintings of Ryfylke. A walkway leads to seating facilities facing north with a beautiful view of Sandsfjorden, or to a bench by the rock, offering natural shelter from nortwestern winds.
Architect: KAP - Kontor for Arkitektur og Plan
Loated in Ropeid, a peninsula in Suldal, Venterommet, which translates to the waiting room is a waiting room for travellers with the express boats to Sauda and Stavanger. The building has large glass panes that make for close contact with both the fjord and the mountainside. Venterommet was opened in 2004.
Architect: Jensen & Skodvin.
For more information: www.visitsuldal.no
The Svandalsfossen waterfall is a mighty spectacle when the river runs high. The 540 steps, completed in 2006, bring visitors into close proximity with the powerful waterfall and the lush, magical vegetation that characterises the area.
Architect: Haga & Grov Sivilarkitekter.
Total driving time 2 ½ -3 hours (not including time spent at stops along the route).