Glacier walking on Folgefonna

Folgefonna is the third largest glacier on Norway's mainland, and is said to be the safest and biggest plateau glacier in Norway. 

The glacier is up to 37 kilometres long and 16 kilometres broad - covering an area of 219 square kilometres. The ice is up to 450 metres thick and the highest point is at 1,662 metres above sea level.

Folgefonna is accessible for different kinds of tourist activities - depending on which challenge you are seeking. Together with trained authorized glacier guides, you can go for walks on the glacier, as well as climbing in cracks.

Paths lead all the way up to edge of the glacier. Others may enjoy the easy walk up to Lake Bondhus (only 189 metres above sea level) - a walk of approximately 45 minutes. You can also go skiing at Folgefonna Summer Ski Centre.

Fishing

Sunnhordland is truly an adventure for those seeking the big one. In just some hours you can move from the typical inland mountain lakes to the thrilling open sea.

In rivers and lakes you need a general licence, whilst you in some rivers also have to pay an extra 24 hours fee. Open sea fishing is free of charge. You pay the national fishing licence at the local post office and petrol station, or online at Inatur.

Many of the hotels, guesthouses and cabins offer their guests boats. Even if the weather is fine in the morning it does not mean that it will stay that way all day. Check the weather forecast or ask a local before you leave. If the clouds darken and start to gather, it is a good idea to head back. It is smart to tell someone where you are going. Remember lifejackets if you are going out in a boat.

Hiking in the mountains by the coast

Despite the fact that most people think of islands and skerries when talking about the coast, Sunnhordland also provides you with fascinating mountain experiences.

Just imagine how it is to climb up high mountain tops and enjoy the sunset over the North Sea.

All around Sunnhordland you will find routes marked with cairns and red Ts. Walking maps can be obtained from the tourist information offices.

Cycling

Sunnhordland is a varied area for cycling. Two cycling routes - The Fjord and Mountain Trip (89 kilometres) and the Coastal Trip (138 kilometres) – will surely give you great cycling experiences.

The signposted cycle route from Bergen to Stavanger, which is part of the North Sea Cycle Route, can be combined with the two routes mentioned above.