Nature

Iconic hikes

On the edge, thrillingly high above the fjord. Waterfalls drop down steep mountainsides with great power. When the wind is blowing, and the sea is rough; that’s when true beauty comes to life. It’s waterful.

1 Preikestolen VII/C5

– the most iconic of them all.

If Norway had been designed by landscape architects, Preikestolen would have been an award-winning work of genius. No other mountain better sums up the thrilling beauty that is the hallmark of Norwegian nature. Such a famous trek creates high expectations. Is Preikestolen really that good? It might be sunny or rainy, windy, or foggy – but that is part of the charm. You know when you approach the end of the steep trail through the birch forest: The landscape opens up and you sense the depth around Preikestolen’s surprisingly small plateau. 8 km, 4 hours return.

• Starting point: Preikestolen Basecamp (parking fee),

Refså marina by boat from Stavanger, Lauvvik or

Forsand • Season: April–October (winter season with guide) • Drive through the tunnel Ryfast from Stavanger, in the direction of Jørpeland, then follow the signposting • Express buses by Pulpit Rock Tours and Go Fjords to the starting point of the hike. Several daily departures in the main season • Ferry and bus tickets are sold at the tourist office

2 Kjerag VII/D5

– the big brother of attractions.

It is not just higher than Preikestolen, it also has a grand finale with the boulder, Kjeragbolten: the large, round boulder stuck high up in the air in between two mountainsides. Nature must have been feeling playful when it wedged the boulder into the crack. Kjerag attracts the daring. Even though you can’t see the edge when you first arrive, you sense the abyss that awaits you. Perhaps it’s the way it towers over the fjord? 1,000 meters of vertical granite does something to us humans. Kjerag is a demanding trip, with an unbelievable view offering memories for a lifetime. Do a bit of preparation in advance and make sure you have a safe hike to Kjerag. 10 km, 6 hours return.

• Starting point: Øygardstøl • Season: June–September (winter season with guide) • Drive FV45 via Sirdal towards Lysebotn, take a ferry to

Lysebotn • Note: winter closed road • Ferry and bus tickets are sold at the tourist office

The Flørli stairs © Flørli 4444

3 Flørli VII/C5

– the world’s longest wooden staircase

Let’s get some action in the 4444 steps up the mountainside! The wooden staircase follows the watergates supplying the hydropower station at the marina in the Lysefjord. This is where hydropower history meets muscle power! While you’re sweating away up the steps, contemplate how it was to live and work here in the first half of the century. At the top, you’ll see why the muscle ache was worthwhile. In addition to the 4444 steps, there are many opportunities for longer stays. With Flørli as your holiday base, you can do several distances per day. 9.7 km, 4,5 hours return.

• Starting point: Stavanger, Lauvvik, Forsand or Lysebotn • Season: All year (The Flørli stairs June–October) • Tickets for ferries and cruises to Flørli are sold at the tourist office

4 Dalsnuten VII/C5

– an easy hike with views of cities, fjords and mountains

At 324 m.a.s.l., you have splendid views, both of Stavanger and Sandnes, as well as of the mountainous area facing east. The easiest hike to Dalsnuten is on a path passing lake Gramstadtjørn and through a small forest with available shelters. Pram-friendly hiking trails from Gramstad (charging facilities for electric bikes) to Kubbetjørn and lake Revholstjørn. 3.8 km, 1½ hour return.

• Starting point: Gramstad • Season: All year • Bus no. 29 to Gramstad (1,5 km to the starting point for the hike)

Trollpikken © Mattias Fredriksson

5 Trollpikken VII/C7

– a potent rock formation

Be amused by Trollpikken, a phallus-shaped rock formation that has become the most light-hearted symbol of the potency of Norwegian nature. In June 2017, somebody destroyed Trollpikken by cutting it off with heavy tools. The local people worked hard to put it back in place with lifts, steel rods and epoxy. The landscape that surrounds Trollpikken resembles a scene from a Tolkien book with rolling hills, small mountains, rocks and shifting cloud cover. The last ice age carved out Trollpikken 10,000 years ago. 4,2 km, 2 hours return.

• Starting point: Parking at the FV62, follow the road

Kjervallveien up the hill Kjervallbakken 900 m • Season: all year (weather conditions permitting) • Make turn from FV42 to F62 (Sletteidveien), follow to the parking Magma Geopark and Egersund Taxi

Månafossen © Brian Tallman Photography

6 Månafossen VII/C5

– a world-class waterfall!

From the path up to Rogaland’s highest waterfall, it is about 30 minutes to walk. There are several vantage points along the way, find yourself a place to observe the spectacular waterfall. From here, you can return to the car park or choose to continue to farm Mån in the Fidjadalen valley. The walk is quite steep, but there are stairs and chains to help you. Open heated shelter by the farm. Accommodation possible (booking in advance). 2,6 km, 2 hours return

• Starting point: Månafossen parking (fee) at Eikeskog • Season: All year

7 Ramnstoknuten VII/C5

– the new Instagram favourite!

The hike to Ramnstoknuten is signposted from the Dirdal marina. The summit is at 562 m.a.s.l. The actual hike is not that far in length, however, there are some altitude metres to climb! You’ll need to cross the river Dirdalsåna via a footbridge. After the bridge, it’s signposted to the top. Along the way, you’ll have two alternatives for the hike; Via Skaret or Via Padlane. Via Skaret is the shortest, but also the steepest route. After the first climb, you are rewarded with a view of the Høgsfjord, where the two fjords Frafjord and Høgsfjord meet. 6.5 km, 5 hours return.

• Starting point: Dirdal marina • Season: All year

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Vanskelighetsgrad vandring:

Easy hike

Medium hike

Demanding hike

Expert hike

What to wear and how to act in Norwegian nature?

© outdoorlifenorway.com

You can hike in all kinds of weather; however, it is crucial to plan ahead in terms of weather conditions, equipment, physical shape, experience and local knowledge. Hikes to top attractions such as Preikestolen, Langfoss, Trolltunga and Kjerag might be too demanding for some people, nevertheless there are numerous other easy hikes to destinations in less dangerous landscapes.

Hike on well-marked paths, listen to experienced mountain hikers and follow advice on signposts and information boards along the way.

The Mountain Code (Fjellvettreglene)

1. Plan the hike ahead and report to someone where you are going 2. Adjust the hike according to ability and conditions 3. Take weather and avalanche conditions into consideration 4. Be prepared for bad and cold weather, even on short hikes 5. Bring necessary equipment in case of having to help yourself or others 6. Make safe route choices. Recognize terrain endangered for avalanches and insecure ice 7. Use a map and a compass. Always know where you are 8. Turn back in time. There is no shame in going back 9. Save your energy levels, and seek shelter if necessary

Equipment

Be prepared for all types of weather in the mountains, even in summer. This is why you must bring clothing and equipment apt for sunny and nice weather but account also for snow, rain and heavy wind. The weather can change rapidly.

• Preferably wool clothing closest to the body, then fleece and then windproof jacket. Bring rain-proof clothing, a hat, gloves and spare change. A reflective vest is a good idea as it makes you easy to find should you need help • It is important to have sturdy footwear – use hiking/mountain boots • Pack enough food and drink adapted to the length of your hike • First aid kit • Map, compass, GPS and flashlight • Bring your phone, but remember that you might not have phone reception at all times • Wind sack makes the mountains safer. A sack big enough for you to get inside and get shelter from wind and weather. Cheap life insurance!

The right to roam (Allemannsretten)

Is fundamental for all outdoor activities in Norway. These rights come with responsibilities to preserve this valuable part of the nature law. • People have the right to roam freely by foot or on skis in nature • Do not walk on cultivated fields/cropland or meadows • Close gates behind you and do not ruin fences • The use of fire and lighting of bonfires in the forest and fields are forbidden from 15 April to 15 September • Always remember that dogs must be kept on a leash – be considerate of grazing animals • Take your litter/garbage back with you, do not leave it in nature • Motorised vehicles are normally forbidden in nature • Do not disturb animals and birds, including nests/baby birds/animals

Eigerøy © Sven Erik Knoff

Hiking

We offer grand nature with tall mountains and deep fjords. From outer reefs to sheltered villages, and from steep viewing points to green valleys. Find inspiration from a selection of hikes here.

In the Stavanger region, the hiking possibilities are endless, from easy day hikes to demanding multi-day trips. Some areas are free from snow all year, others only in summer. With rich plant and animal life, some landscapes are protected.

Walking on the “moon”?

Magma UNESCO Global Geopark is in the south of our region and is an exciting area with unique geology and cultural history. You hike on anorthosite, the same rock type as on the moon. The area offers great walks and special rock formations, Syngjarsteinen at Skåra or the 74-ton block of stone at Indre Åmodt, Ruggesteinen, the largest moving block in Northern Europe. Not far from Byrkjedalstunet is Gloppedalsura, Northern Europe’s largest stone scree with landslide boulders on top of an end moraine. VII/B-D6-7

1 Kongevegen

Kongevegen partly follows the old riding path over Jæren and continues along the coast from Kvassheim to Hå gamle prestegard. Parking at Varhaug old cemetery, Grødalandstunet and Hå gamle prestegard. 8,4 km, 3 hours. VII/B6

2 Lifjell

From the top, enjoy magnificent views of cities Stavanger and Sandnes, the Gandsfjord, the North Sea and Ryfylke. Going up from Hommersåk also gives amazing views of Riska and Strandalandet. There is a winding road towards the top suitable for prams and bikes. 4,5 km, 1,5 hours return Starting point: Likaiveien, Hommersåk. Season: All year. VII/B5

3 Randabergfjellet

A perfect destination with a view of both the North Sea and the islands – not far from the city and easily accessible. Even though the mountain is only 70 m.a.s.l. you’re rewarded with a 360-degree view. 1.4 km, 20 minutes return. Season: All year. VII/B5

Lifjell, Sandnes © Daniel Møller, uti-sandnes.no

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Kongevegen © Terje Rakke

Rennesøyhodnet © Lene Lunde

4 Rennesøyhodnet

At 234 m.a.s.l. Provides an amazing view in all directions. There is altogether 20 km of marked trails in the highest areas of Rennesøy. Starting points: Vikevåg, Sel, Dale or Østhusvik. 5.6 km, 3 hours return. Season: All year. VII/B4

5 Solaturen

memorials and war memories in wonderful nature. An easy stroll in the open cultural landscape. 8.4 km, 2 hours return. Season: All year. VII/B5

6 Synesvarden

The area surrounding Synesvarden is the largest remaining heathlands at Jæren. This is what the rest of the flatland at Jæren looked like before the agriculture changed Jæren in the last part of the 1800s. Roundtrip from Holmavatn to Synesvarden and further to the monument Mor Norge. 7.6 km, 2 hours return. Season: All year. VII/B6

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Kvitsøy © Moxey

7 The hiking area west at Kvitsøy

The hike starts from the Ydstebø marina. Continue to Håland, and from there, take the hiking trail along reefs and old bunkers back to Kvitsøy lighthouse. At the lighthouse, you get a good view of the sea, Skudenes, Karmøy and Bokn. Experience rough coastal landscapes with waves and reefs. The trip goes over pastures with many fence splitters, so stick to the marked path. You can also see old bunkers from the war on the route, from when Kvitsøy was under German occupation. In very bad weather this trip is not recommended. 2.6 km, 1-hour return. Season: All year. VII/4A

8 Vigdel–Bore

Hike in the open and flat beach landscape. Follow the coastline southwards, passing Sele harbour and continue towards Bore beach. Parking at Vigdel and Bore. 9 km, 2–3 hours. VII/B5

9 Hellersheia

This hike in moonlike landscapes starts near the famous two houses at Helleren. The two houses are built sheltered underneath the mountainside and are the oldest settlement in Sokndal. Follow the steep path up to the picnic area off the FV44. Cross the road and follow the marked trail into a forest area. On the way to the top (315 m.a.s.l.), you’ll get the chance to enjoy the ocean and fjord views of the Jøssingfjord with its hairpin roads. 5.9 km, 2 ½ hours return. Season: March–October. Parking at Helleren. VII/C7

10 Hilleknuten

At 1209 m.a.s.l. gives a free view in all directions. The hike follows the ski lift for a while before making a turn to the left and passing lake Svartopstjødna. Season: May–October. Return 4–5 hours, 12 km. VII/E5

11 Vinjakula

Is at 907 m.a.s.l. the highest peak in Magma UNESCO Global Geopark and offers a grand view. Find more on hiking in Bjerkreim at destinasjonbjerkreim.no. Starting point: Veen. 4–5 hours, 13.4 km. Season: All year. VII/C6

Islands

Close to the elements, straight into the ocean. Feel the forces of nature!

The islands Ryfylkeøyene (VII/B4–C4) offer fascinating coastal landscapes; with views of fjords, straits and lush islands. Numerous prehistoric signs tell the story of a long settlement history that has put a stamp on the landscape. The climate is maritime, mild and humid, and the islands here are green almost year-round.

The islands Rennesøy, Mosterøy, Bru, Fjøløy, Klosterøy, Vestre Åmøy, Sokn og Brimse are known as the green islands. Finnøy with islands Talgje, Fogn, Fisterøyene, Sjernarøyane and Ombo have long traditions of agriculture, and nearly 40 % of Norway’s tomato production is cultivated here.

Bridges, ferries and speed boats connect most islands together. Perfect for a bike trip!

Island hopping Stavanger – Lindøy – Langøy – Stavanger. Experience one of the most popular recreational areas in the archipelagos outside of Stavanger. Easy access by passenger boats. The boats leave from Stavanger boat terminal (Fiskepirterminalen). VII/B4 Eigerøy just outside Egersund is connected to the mainland by a bridge. At Midbrødøya outside Nordre Eigerøya, lies Eigerøy lighthouse. Nice hiking area. Eigerøy is almost split in two by the bay Lundarviga, Nordre Eigerøya and Søre Eigerøya. VII/B7

Kvitsøy – the ocean gem that gives you a small taste of the good life among 365 islets and reefs. Impeccable in all types of weather, with glimmering bliss when the sun is out and with heavenly astonishment when the weather is rough. Kvitsøy suits those who aim to spend a holiday relaxing. One day on the island of Kvitsøy could consist of a swim at the Sandrenna bay, a stroll or a bike tour alongside well-kept and abundant gardens in Ydstebøhavn where most of the locals live, a boat trip, some water activities or exploring cultural landscapes. VII/A-B4-5

City islands, Stavanger © NLE Film/Grim Berge

Fishing

Most rivers and several freshwater lakes in the region are actively used for fishing, and often, a fishing permit is required. Find fishing spots here:

Lysefjorden © NLE Film/Grim Berge

Fjords

“Fjord” is one of the few Norwegian words that has become international, stemming from the Norse fjorðr. A fjord is a deep, narrow and long-stretched sea channel with steep land on three sides. The mouth of the fjord towards the sea is often shallow. Fjords were created by gigantic tongues of glaciers through several ice ages that have formed the landscape. In western Norway, the fjords are often surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes, and they often have more calm waters than the open sea, and act as natural harbours.

The Høgsfjord seen from Ramnstoknuten © Henrik Susort

The most famous fjord is the Lysefjord, a 40-km-long fjord with icons such as Preikestolen, Kjerag and Flørli. Flørli is most known for having one of the longest and steepest wooden stairs in the world, with 4444 steps from the fjord up the mountain. The Lysefjord itself can be experienced all year on fjord cruises. VII/C5

The Jøssingfjord is known for Helleren; the two small houses from the 1800s that are protected by the mountain forming a natural shelter. The fjord is along the North Sea Road (FV44). VII/D7

Hafrsfjord is historically important, as it is the alleged site of a large Viking battle led by the Viking king Harald Fairhair. Harald and his men fought against several Viking kings in the battle and won. He then became the first king of Norway, uniting Norway into one kingdom. The area is nice for hikes and biking tours, as well as a popular swimming area in summer. The large memorial Swords in rock towers over the landscape in commemoration of the Viking battle. In 2022, we celebrate the fact that it is 1150 years since the unification of Norway at Hafrsfjord. VII/B5

Frafjord stretches from Dirdal and into the village of Frafjord. The fjord has steep and narrow sides, and near the village of Frafjord, the river Frafjordåna runs into the fjord. VII/C5

Gandsfjorden lies in the distinction between the flat “Jæren” landscape to the west and the heathlands towards the inland. See the fjord on a train ride between Sandnes and Stavanger. VII/B5

Ørsdalsvatnet is an inland fjord that can be experienced on a boat trip with M/K Ørsdølen every Sunday during the summer.

VII/C6

Bonus fjords – lakes can also be fjords. In the extension of the fjords, there are often lakes that were once separated from the fjord. These are often called inland fjords (in principle enclosed fjords).

Hafrsfjord © Brian Tallman Photography

Frafjord © Aldente/Moxey

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The Jæren beaches © Anita Hamremoen

Beaches

Along the entire southwestern coastline are wide-stretched sandy and pebblestone beaches.

Most of the time, you experience wind and roaring waves, making it fun to fly a kite, do sailboarding, kiting or surf. On warm summer days, you could be lucky enough to experience almost a Mediterranean atmosphere. To the south are the beaches of Jæren (VII/B5-6), stretching over 70 km along the coast, and is Norway’s longest stretch of sandy beaches. This entire coastal area is extraordinary, and parts are protected landscape areas as well as plant and bird protection areas.

Refnesstranden © Aldente/Moxey

Refsnesstranden (6), Ogna (7), Brusand beach (8), Ølberstranden (9) and Vistestranden (10).

Some favourites are Skadbergstranden (1), Solastranden (2), Hellestø (3), Borestranden (4), Orrestranden (5) (Blue flag), The beaches are nice to visit in all types of weather, all year.

For more tips on nice beaches as well as indoor swimming facilities to visit, please contact the local tourist office in the area you are travelling to.

Swimming areas

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Møllebukta

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Bråsteinsvatnet

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Vannbassengane

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Kanalparken

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Sandrenna, Kvitsøy

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Sjøbadet Myklebust

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Vaulen, Stavanger

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Linepollen, Sokndal

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1. Møllebukta © Lene Lunde, 2. Bråsteinsvatnet, Melsheia © Inger-Sigrun Slagstad Vik, 3. Vannbassengan, Eigersund © Fotografen AS, 4. Kanalparken, Ålgård © Sven Olav Jensen, 5. Sandrenna, Kvitsøy © Moxey, 6. Sjøbadet Myklebust, Sola © Elisabeth Tønnesen, 7. Vaulen, Stavanger © Stavanger kommune, 8. Linepollen, Sokndal © Nils Jacobsen

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Solastranden © Tom Haga

Active holiday

On top of the waves, with surf in your heart and sea water in your hair. Splashes of snow and a beating heart at the bottom of the alpine slopes. Thoroughly sweaty after the bike ride along the roaring North Sea: It’s waterful.

Water sports

There are good conditions for surfing in summer and early autumn, especially for beginners, with warm water and relatively small wave size. Well suited for beginners are the beaches at Sola, Hellestø, Bore (VII/B5) and Brusand (VII/B6). Book surfing lessons at Bore Surf Senter or Boretunet. Other water activities are coasteering, SUP, canoeing, and kay-

Coasteering/diving, Mosterøy © Coastal Adventures

aking. You can try this at Nordic Paddling (VII/C5), Coastal Adventures (VII/ B4–5, C7), Klostergarden (VII/B4) and Sirdal Resort (VII/D5). At Mo Laksegard, you can go on a river salmon expedition on the Suldaslågen river (VII/C3).

It’s possible to rent canoes and kayaks at Frilager.no, Kronen Gaard Hotell (VII/B5), Sandrenna (VII/B5) and at the Bjerkreimselva river

(VII/C6).

Climbing and adrenaline rush

There are several climbing facilities in the region. We recommend Sørmarka (VII/B5), Air by Bolder (VII/B5) and Eigersundshallen (VII/C7). The climbing club Bratte Rogalands Venner has published a climbing guide in Rogaland, see brv.no.

At Preikestolen Mountain Lodge (VII/C5), there are different climbing walls, and skilful activity leaders will safely instruct you up the mountainside. Try climbing parks Høyt & Lavt at Sirdal (VII/D5) or Skogsprett at Melsheia in Sandnes (VII/B5).

Via Ferrata is another climbing activity, try it at Månafossen (VII/C5). Rent equipment at the farm in Eikeskog. Migaren via ferrata (VII/C7) is an airy and unique experience overlooking the fantastic Jøssingjord.

Biking

Take your family on a bike tour! Bike rental is possible, check with your local tourist office.

North Sea Cycle Route – let the wheels take control, find the rhythm and pedal away on paved and gravelled roads. The North Sea Route on a bike is a fantastic way of experiencing the southwestern part of the country. The North Sea Cycle Route in Rogaland passes through the southern part of the country to Egersund. From there, the bike route goes along the old main road to Ogna, where you meet the first of Jæren’s many sandy beaches. Follow further the ancient King’s road (Kongevegen) along the coastline via Brusand and Vigrestad to Hå old cemetery. Further north, you’ll find breathtaking beaches as pearls on a string. From Sola, you have the alternative to continue inland towards Sandnes and along the Gandsfjord further onto Stavanger or you can follow the coastline through Sola and Tungenes lighthouse. From Stavanger, travel by passenger boat to Nedstrand and bike from here further to Haugesund.

Islands Finnøy & Sjernarøyene (VII/B4) by bike. Go to the islands by speed boats that can accommodate up to 10 bikes, book at kolumbus.no. Buy tomatoes straight from the greenhouse, visit Handelsstedet Ramsvig’s open summer café or jump into the sea for a swim.

Migaren via ferrata, Jøssingfjord © Magma Geopark

Take the ferry to Kvitsøy (VII/A-B4-5) and bring your bike. This small, picturesque island offers cycling in gorgeous surroundings. Ideal for families with young children as it is easy to bike on the island. Several nice places to stop on the way; the lighthouse and the lobster museum to mention some. You can go on a war bunker hunt or simply enjoy beach life in the Sandrenna bay or at the guest harbour area at Grøningen.

Vestlandske hovedvei (VII/B7) is the former main road between Christiania and Stavanger. We recommend the stretch from Ogna to Hegrestad (7 km).

Rail tricycle at Ålgårdbanen (VII/B5-6) is a 6 km-return trip along the salmon river Figgjo.

For more bike route suggestions, visit regionstavanger.com and bikemap.com. Several bike routes in the region are marked with bike signposts.

Let the kids decide!

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Kick off your holidays in Sandnes! Exciting activities. Experiences in nature. Sandnes has so much to offer for every season! Give the kids a vacation to remember.

uti-sandnes.no

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photo: Marie Von Krogh/Vinterfilm

photo: Daniel Møller/Vinterfilm 4

photo: Flørli 4444

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photo: Marie Von Krogh/Vinterfilm Photo: Marie Von Krogh/Vinterfilm

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photo: Marie Von Krogh/Vinterfilm

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photo: Daniel Møller/Vinterfilm

photo: Daniel Møller/Vinterfilm

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photo: Marie Von Krogh/Vinterfilm

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photo: Therese Hauger/Sandnes kommune

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Sandnes is packed with hikes; from easy to more demanding – for the whole family! Lysefjorden is one of Norway’s most beautiful fjords. Jump off the boat in Flørli. Take the 4444 steps in the world's longest wooden staircase.

Stroll along one of Norway's longest shopping streets, Langgata. Should your blood sugar get too low from all the shopping, there are “rescue” stations on every corner. Food trucks, cafes and restaurants await you.

Crazy about horses, anyone? Horse riding at Tryggvi Islandshestgård. Guided riding tours, riding school and intensive riding lessons are some of the offers. Can you hear the happy neigh?

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Sandnes – the best Christmas town of the year in 2021! Winterland in Sandnes is fun – on the ice, with a Ferris wheel and happy faces.

Rutenparken right in the centre. Run, skate, bike, jump, slide - and chill. Also lots of fun activities during summer.

Vitenfabrikken – A Science Factory with a Tesla coil, a planetarium, interactive exhibitions and fun activities for kids to play and experiment in.

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Canoeing is worth doing! Rent canoes at Alsvik where you can do some fishing, camping, swimming and barbecuing. What’s not to love?

Skogsprett climbing park is tough and exciting. Believe us – 13 m above the ground gives you tingles!

SkulpTUR is one of our cultural walks. Bamse, the bear sculpture, is waiting for small, eager hands and curious looks.