Stavanger region, Norway – Lysefjord, Sola beach, Preikestolen

The city of natural highs

Breathtaking surroundings with beautiful fjords, mountains, and long, white beaches. As a former European Capital of Culture, Stavanger and the neighbouring city of Sandnes also boast an impressive assortment of museums and cultural events.

The Stavanger region has many scenic attractions, among them the Lysefjord, Sola beach and the world famous Preikestolen (“the Pulpit Rock”). Preikestolen is located 604 metres above sea level and is the most visited attraction in the county of Rogaland. Lonely Planet named it the number one most breathtaking viewing platform in the world.

Stavanger is a university city and home to a number of institutions of higher education and research. This is reflected in the city’s urban and lively atmosphere, and in the varied assortment of shopping and dining opportunities. In 2008 Stavanger and Sandnes were designated European Capital of Culture, a testimony to the variety and wide range of cultural events and activities in the region. The Gladmat Food Festival, usually held at the end of July, is a large happening in the region and attracts around 250,000 visitors every year.

In 1969 the first oil field was discovered at Ekofisk south in the North Sea, which made the Stavanger Region a key player in the Norwegian economy.

Today, Stavanger and Sandnes is Europe’s oil and energy capital and the main source of income for the locals comes from working in the petroleum sector. This industry attracts different nationalities to the region, making it a highly international destination. Today, there are several options for getting to Stavanger and around.

The city centre of Stavanger is quite compact, which makes it easy to reach most attractions on foot. Old Stavanger offers Europe’s best preserved wooden house settlement, consisting of more than 170 white wooden houses. On your walk you can easily stop by some of the city’s many museums, such as the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, Stavanger Art Museum and the Norwegian Canning museum.

Find more inspiration on Stavanger and Ryfylke’s official website.

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