Hidden gems in the Stavanger region

‘Everyone’ knows Preikestolen and Kjerag. And trips to the region’s main attractions are certainly experiences we can recommend, but sometimes you might not feel like setting off on grand adventures. In that case, we can suggest some lesser-known walks to accessible destinations for the entire family. Come along and discover some of our favourite spots!

Destinations steeped in history

People have lived in our region for generations, ever since the last Ice Age. There are, therefore, countless places where those who came before us have left their mark, and different eras are reflected in a wealth of cultural and historical elements. Get to know unique places where you’ll get a bit of exciting history thrown in for good measure.

Places of excursion with historical background

Read more about these highlighted places and attractions in The Stavanger region.

Krosshaug

Krosshaug is a burial mound at Klepp but is commonly used to describe the entire site here and its several prehistoric finds.

Uburhelleren

The cave at Uburhelleren was formed by a huge boulder that slid down the mountainside. The huge slab of rock came to rest on top of other rocks so that a large hall was created naturally underneath.

Domsteinene

Whether you are into history or Outlander, you may find these stone circles interesting. If they make time travelling possible is another matter though. But what where they used for these stone circles?

Architecture in nature

Are you interested in architecture? Architecture can mean so many things. It can be more than just buildings. Take a trip to Midgardsormen, a winding wooden bridge that connects the walking areas on either side of the Frøylandsvatnet lake.

Art, in the open air

Imagine art that is completely free and accessible to everyone. You’ll occasionally find outdoor sculptures or installations in places you wouldn’t expect. The popularly named Mother Norway, also known as Steinkjerringå, is a sculpture you’ll find in the middle of Høg-Jæren, not far from Synesvarden. We also recommend taking a closer look at Konvoi at Obrestad harbour, which is easy to combine with a trip along the Kongevegen. In Undheim lies Knudaheio, Arne Garborg’s summer cottage or writing retreat. Here, on a small hill just beside the house, you’ll find a stone face of the famous author created by Hugo Wathne, named “All denne fagre utsyn”.

Nature’s own art

Sometimes it is actually nature itself that creates stunning works of art. Have you seen the stone bust at Vigdel? It’s located in a lovely hiking area right next to Vigdel Fort, not far from the beach, Vigdelstranden. A great destination when you need to motivate the kids to join the hike! A pothole shaped like a heart is also a fun touch from nature. You’ll find it just outside Egersund.

Midgardsormen

The striking bridge across lake Frøylandsvatnet connects Sandtangen and the hiking trails on the west side with the forest Njåskogen on the east side. The bridge is a unique and special archictectural feature in the middle of nature.

The hike to Mother Norway / Steinkjerringa

Mor Norge and Synesvarden

Steinkjerringa and Synesvarden: Jæren's largest heathland, reminiscent of 1800s flat-Jæren. Heather, bell heather, historic grazing area and a lady in stone!

heart shaped pothole formed by glaciers during the last Ice age. In south norway

Heart-shaped glacial pot on Eigerøy

The heart-shaped pothole is located on the island of Eigerøy, just outside Egersund, and is an impressive natural phenomenon.

Obrestad harbour

Tucked along the rugged Jæren coast, Obrestad Harbour is a small but historic gem that has sheltered fishermen for generations.

Knudaheio

This was author Arne Garborg's summer residence at Jæren, from 1899 to 1923.

Vigdel beach

Vigdelstranden beach is ideal for families with small children as it's a shallow beach. Photographers also like to visit the area, as it is varied in terms of landscape; a nice blend of flat and rocky terrain.

Recreation areas

Popular with children is the area around the Vistnestunet farm. Here, several hiking trails and paths lead through pastures of cows, goats, sheep and other farm animals. Auglend is another disused farm, which is now used as a very versatile recreation area. Did you find it exciting to walk among the old bunkers of Vigdel Fortress? Then your next trip could be to Fjøløy Fort. In case you want to go on a longer trip, we recommend going to Bukkaknuten. A nice winter area for skiing and sledging is Brekko or Stavtjørn. As soon as there is enough snow in the winter, beautiful cross-country skiing trails are prepared here.

Recreation Areas with historical background

Read more about these highlighted places and attractions in The Stavanger region.

Vistnestunet

The Vistnestunet farm is open to groups and school classes. Various activities take place throughout the year, and the surrounding area is ideal for walks.

Auglend, Vandringshavn and Brønnnesodden

At the southernmost tip of Eigerøy lies Auglend and Vandringshavn – a beautiful outdoor recreation area where the trail leads you out to the majestic Brønnesodden in the North Sea.

Fjøløy fortress and Fjøløy lighthouse

Fjøløy is a former military ground that is now a recreational area for the public.

More recreation areas

Read more about these highlighted places and attractions in The Stavanger region.

Bukkaknuten

Veraland is a large nature area with marshes, pine forests and open and bare heathland. The area is also rich in terms of bird and wildlife. You can find both deer and elk grazing here. Several long and short hiking opportunities with many nice viewing points.

Brekko lodge and recreation area

Friluftstunet Brekko is located in a hiking area that is suitable for both winter and summer activities. The area is particularly well adapted for families with children.

Stavtjørn

Stavtjørn offers outdoor activities all year round. Cross-country trails and ski resorts in the winter and in summer, enjoy swimming, fishing and hiking.

Restful vacation days in Sokndal

Lille Presteskjær fyr is a beautiful cast-iron lighthouse by the Rekefjord in Sokndal, set within the rugged rocky landscape with beautiful views of the North Sea. The lighthouse can be rented for overnight stays and groups. To get there, you follow the hiking trail from Nordfjord; alternatively, you'll need boat transportation. In Sokndal, there are many insider tips to discover; have you heard of the Nesvåghåla? Maybe the best place to start is the idyllic village of Sogndalstrand, where you can stroll along the charming wooden houses, talk to the locals and get their recommendations.