Norway's oldest seat of Kings
It was the kith and kin of the early princes who ensured that the base of power for the Viking Harald the Fairhaired was to be at Haugalandet when he united Norway into one kingdom. Harald fought for ten years and finally, in 872 AD, he won his final decisive battle at Hafrsfjord and declared Avaldsnes as the seat of kingdom. In 1872 the Norwegian Monument was erected at Haraldshaugen as a memorial for the united kingdom of Norway established by Harald the Fairhaired.
Interested in following in the footsteps of King Harald the Fairhaired and discover the rich history of the Vikings? Be a Viking for a day, dress, eat and act like they did for more than 1,000 years ago. Karmøy Kulturopplevelser AS takes you to a Viking farm, a stone church from the Middle Ages, a modern history centre, ancient burial mounds and stone monuments.
See this video from Haugesund:
Excursion to Åkrafjord and Langfoss Waterfall
There are exiting excursions to Åkrafjord and Langfoss Waterfall. Åkrafjord is located at the innermost part of Haugalandet, close to the Hardangerfjord, and is a narrow fjord with steep mountains on each side. Langfoss Waterfall is the fifth highest in Norway and has been nominated as one of the 10 most beautiful waterfalls in the world. The excursions are operated by Åkrafjorden Adventure.
Experience fjord sightseeing, tractor safaris, hiking trips and local cuisine. Combine farm visits with wandering in the wild and untamed nature along the ancient tracks at the untouched side of the fjord.
Hiking and biking
With its long coastline, white sandy beaches, heather uplands, mountains, fjords and valleys – Haugesund and Haugalandet can provide numerous possibilities for fantastic hiking and biking trips.
Haugesund and Karmøy are part of the North Sea Cycle Route.
Experience the old town of Skudeneshavn
The charming town of Skudeneshavn is situated at the tip of the island Karmøy. The history of the town can be traced back to the 1800s when the herring-fishing period created a hectic industry, and the old town with its 125 houses and sailors' cottages were built. Here, you can relive the era, stroll through the small streets, visit the local museum, and conclude the day with a meal in one of the town's cosy restaurants. Experience the real atmosphere of Skudeneshavn - one of the best preserved small towns in Norway.
Visit the lighthouses of Ryvarden and Geitungen
Ryvarden Lighthouse is beautifully situated by the sea just north of Haugesund, and Geitungen Lighthouse lies on a small and exotic island near Skudeneshavn. Facilities are accommodation, fishing, café and gallery. The sea will be either completely still or crashing in waves far up onto the shore, both creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Island hopping to Røvær and Utsira
The idyllic islands of Røvær and Utsira are just a short trip by boat from Haugesund. Take a break from everyday routines, breathe in the fresh air, enjoy the stillness and silence, and let life unfold at a much slower pace than usual. Boat trips, fishing, hiking and fresh seafood at the local hotel are experiences not to be missed. Enjoy the exotic nature, the charming coastal culture and the local people of Utsira.