Haugesund city and the surrounding region dates back to Viking times. When Norway was united as a kingdom for the first time, it was Harald the Fairhair from Avaldsnes (10 minutes from Haugesund) who established Norway’s first royal seat. As kings ruled Norway from this destination for more than 500 years, the destination has developed products for the meetings industry based on strong historical and authentic experiences. Now you really can feel the spirit of the Viking Kings.
Today Haugesund is one of Norway’s most intimate cities for conferences and meetings. Over 800 hotel rooms, state of the art conference venues, numerous restaurants and bars and good selection of leisure offers can be found within a radius of only 790 metres.
Due to the city's involvement in the oil, shipping and offshore industry the amenities, facilities and attractions far exceed what one would expect from a city of its size. As hosts for Haugesund International Jazz Festival and the Norwegian International Film Festival, Haugesund has also proven to be a city for major events.
With Haugesund as your base, it is only a short distance to great activities and attractions during both summer and winter. Many of these are based on the region’s beautiful landscape, ranging from a vast and wild coastline to snow-capped mountains with cascading waterfalls melting in to the fjords. The scenery here is guaranteed to provide a truly memorable setting.
For customers that seek those special venues, experiences and activities, Haugesund and the surrounding region should be your next destination of choice. Experience Langfoss, one of Norway’s highest waterfalls, plunging down into the no less spectacular Åkra Fjord. Travel to the islands of Røvær and Utsira and explore small island communities. Visit one of its lighthouses for an unconventional meeting or a dinner with panoramic sea-views.
Test your limits with rock-climbing, glacier walking and sea rafting or enjoy hiking trails through scenic terrain. Discover crystal clear lakes and rivers, or fish in one of the best salmon and trout rivers in Norway. Why not try Haugesund's world famous salmon-safari?
Explore the picturesque 19th-century maritime port of Skudeneshavn – one of Norway’s best-preserved small towns. Enjoy the tranquility and sit with a fishing rod alongside a stream or on board a traditional wooden sailboat on the open sea with a glass of sparkling wine.
Visit Nordvegen History Centre, a stone church from the medieval period, or the reconstructed Viking Village and inhale the Viking Spirit!