OVERVIEW

Hike to the summit of the rock formation Himakana and enjoy sweeping views that will only get better the higher you climb. The well-maintained trail begins in the village of Nedstrand, which is tucked away near the confluence of two fjords. Although the gravel trail is steep at times, it is still quite manageable, even for novice hikers. Its relative ease to climb is the reason that Himakana is nicknamed the “mini Trolltunga,” as ascending Trolltunga – a similar but much larger rock formation – is considerably more challenging. Trolltunga may be three times higher, but it isn’t three times more scenic, another reason Himakana is such a popular hike. Chances are, you will spot plenty of other nature lovers on the trail, especially at the summit, which overlooks Lysevatnet Lake. Before descending, you will enjoy a light snack and a bar of Kvikk Lunsj, a chocolate-covered wafer known as the “hiking chocolate.”

HIGHLIGHTS

• Hike up Himakana, a rock formation that juts out high above Lysevatnet Lake.
• Appreciate that the trail is relatively easy to climb, even though steep in areas.
• Enjoy spectacular views the entire way, but especially from the summit.
• Snack at the top of Himakana before starting the descent.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Discover the highlights of Skudeneshavn, a fishing town that was established in the 19th century and has retained its historical atmosphere through preservation.

Enjoy a picturesque drive to Ferkingstad, a village on the western shore of the island of Karmøy. Near the harbor, you will pause for photos of the memorial that commemorates the island's fishermen that lost their lives at sea.

Then it's on to the Mælandgården Museum in Skudeneshavn. It is located in a meticulously kept wooden house that a prosperous merchant built in the 19th century. The museum is decorated with period furnishings and objects that provide an accurate picture of life during a time when herring was king.

Follow your guide on a walk through the town’s narrow streets. More than 200 homes and boathouses from that time still remain, lending Skudeneshavn a wonderfully authentic atmosphere. You will also enjoy some free time to further explore on your own. The main street, Søragada, is a great starting point, as it's lined with boutiques and restaurants. Fresh seafood is always an excellent choice if you stop for a snack.

The return to Haugesund will be along the island's eastern side, an extraordinarily scenic area with few villages. Nature rules here and the coastal views are truly stunning.

Immerse yourself in Norway's intriguing past by visiting Avaldsnes, where the country's first king lived in the 9th century, and a reconstructed Viking farm.

A scenic drive across Karmsund Sound takes you to Karmøy Island, where you will soon reach the village of Avaldsnes. The past comes alive here, as you will discover at the Nordvegen History Centre, an attraction located where King Harald Fairhair lived after unifying Norway in 872. While browsing the exhibits, you will learn about Norway's early kings and warriors, who have been immortalized in Norse sagas and songs. Archaeological digs have added even more insight, giving you a clear picture of Norway's fascinating history.

Stop to visit St. Olav's Church, which was constructed of stone in the 13th century. Outside, you will see an obelisk known as Virgin Mary's Sewing Needle because according to one legend, it is the needle she lost while sewing in heaven. Another legend claims the obelisk is a petrified magician, while still another claims that the apocalypse will occur if the leaning obelisk ever touches the church. It's dangerously close.

A short walk from the church will bring you to a replica Viking farm with several buildings constructed based on various archaeological finds in Rogaland County and using original techniques. There is a longhouse, granary and boathouse; all of which show how the Vikings lived more than a thousand years ago. Costumed Viking hosts will welcome you and offer further understanding of Norway's past.