This summer’s road trip takes you from Skudeneshavn and Haugesund, past architectural highlights along the Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke and to Lysefjorden – a journey you won’t want to miss.
The journey begins along the coast of Karmøy before the landscape gradually changes from small-town life and open sea to fjords, waterfalls and mountain passes through Ryfylke towards Preikestolen and Lysefjorden. Along the way, Viking history, local culinary experiences, architecture and both well-known attractions and hidden gems in Fjord Norway await.
This is a road trip where the driving itself is a major part of the experience – and one you’ll wish could last a little longer.
At the southern tip of Karmøy lies Skudeneshavn, one of Norway’s best-preserved old towns and the first stop on this trip. The town is known for its well-preserved white wooden buildings, narrow streets and the bustling harbour life. The town flourished during the herring and maritime era of the 19th century, and much of its maritime history still characterises the centre.
Set aside some time to stroll through the old town and the area around Søragadå. Among the white wooden houses, you’ll find small cafés, restaurants and local shops. If you’d like to learn more about the town’s history, the Skudeneshavn Museum is a natural stop along the way. There is free parking in marked parking spaces in the town centre, and the village is best explored on foot.
You’ll find several accommodation options in the town centre, including Havn Hotell, Gamlekaien and Norneshuset. If you’d prefer to stay just outside the town centre, the Panoramahyttene is about a ten-minute drive away.
If you have some extra time before continuing your journey towards Haugesund and Ryfylke, a guided SUP tour with Saltråk is a great way to experience Skudeneshavn from the water.
The journey continues north towards Haugesund, about a 50-minute drive from Skudeneshavn. On the way, we recommend a stop at Åkrasanden, known for its light-coloured sandy landscape and the shallow waters along the coast. Åkrasanden is a popular spot for swimming, picnics and short breaks, and the stop offers a relaxing encounter with the open coastal landscape before the journey continues towards city life and Viking history.
Before you reach Haugesund city center, it is also worth stopping off at Avaldsnes, a site considered one of the most important centres of power from the Viking Age in Norway. Here you can visit the Nordvegen History Centre, St Olav’s Church and the Viking farm to learn more about the place where several Viking kings once resided.
In Haugesund, the journey shifts from open coastal landscapes to city life and urban experiences. Quality Hotel Maritim is a great base for the rest of your stay, situated along Smedasundet and within walking distance of restaurants, shops and cultural attractions. Spend the afternoon in the niche shops in Haraldsgata, and join a guided boat tour with Viking Adventures’ “Hyke” to experience Haugesund from the sea.
When evening falls, enjoy dinner at Naustet, Sabi Sushi, Lothes Mat og Vinhus or To Glass. Along Smedasundet, there are also several options for sauna and sea bathing before the day comes to an end.
After a quiet morning in Haugesund, the journey continues from the coastal landscape further inland, where the scenery changes as the kilometres pass. On the way to Allmannajuvet, a stop at Åkrafjorden and Langfoss is recommended. The waterfall plunges straight down into the fjord from steep mountain sides and is considered one of Norway’s most beautiful waterfalls.
If you have the opportunity, consider adding an extra day to your itinerary. Åkrafjorden is well worth a longer stay. Here you’ll find both activities and accommodation close to nature.
From Åkrafjorden, the journey continues inland towards Ryfylke. As you approach Håra, exit the E134 and follow the Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke over Saudafjellet. The narrow mountain pass winds its way from open highland terrain at 900 metres above sea level, through steep mountain slopes and green valleys dotted with small ponds, down towards Allmannajuvet.
From 1881 to 1899, the zinc mines were a hive of activity. The historic site is well preserved and you can join a guided tour into the mines. The architectural buildings house a café, gallery and toilets. The complex was designed by the world-renowned Swiss architect Peter Zumthor, and is one of the ten major attractions along Norway’s Scenic Routes.
Fancy a different kind of accommodation? Then you can glamp on Saudafjellet, just a short drive from Allmannajuvet.
Around 20 minutes away, Sauda offers several places to stay and restaurants. You can stroll through the historic town of Åbøbyen, hike the Hovlandsnuten or enjoy the heated outdoor pool.
On the way south, you’ll pass the roaring waterfall at Svandalsfossen. You can stop by the roadside and climb the 552 steps to the top. Here you’ll really get a sense of the forces of nature! The Corten steel steps are one of several architectural gems along the Architectural Route.
The journey continues and is a dream for all foodies! The further south you go, the more farm shops you’ll find along the road. You can visit several local producers – and something as rare as a vineyard. Right in the heart of this culinary treasure trove is the restaurant Smaken av Ryfylke. Here you can treat yourself to dishes made from local produce whilst enjoying the fjord views.
Once you’ve finished your meal, it’s time to drive on, through forested mountains and past sparkling waters to Jørpeland. The town closest to Preikestolen and Lysefjorden has a good selection of shops and eateries, not to mention a bakery with fresh baked goods for your packed lunch. Do take a stroll around Jørpelandsholmen before continuing your road trip.
Feel free to tick Preikestolen off your bucket list! But if you’d rather discover a hidden gem, Lysefjord Panorama Trail is a great alternative. You’ll walk close to Lysefjorden, past deep gorges and magnificent viewpoints, almost entirely on your own. The eternal pool Fantapytten is the highlight for many – you must set aside time for a selfie or two here!
If mountain hikes aren’t your thing, you can pop by the Høllesli viewpoint and enjoy the fjord landscape without burning a single calorie. By boat and kayak, you might be lucky enough to see sea eagles and porpoises up close.
Would you like to soar above Lysefjorden? Then a night at The Bolder is highly recommended!
The drive ends in Lysebotn, at the head of Lysefjorden. Lysefjord Scenic Car Ferry departs from Forsand quay, passing Hengjanefossen fall, Preikestolen, Flørli and Kjerag. The boat trip between the sheer mountain walls is an experience in itself. Once you arrive, you can stay overnight and have dinner at Lysefjorden Turisthytte, which is covered in colourful street art. If you have extra time, you can go on the hike to Kjerag or hire activity equipment from SBK Base.
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