Wild and beautiful

Waterfall

Photo: Terje Rakke

We will always argue that the Vikings have attained a somewhat unfair reputation event though we can’t deny the fact that they waged war, pillaged and plundered, and were generally perceived as savage and wild. Luckily, we can assure you that this is something you won’t experience in the modern home of the Vikings. Here, you will be welcomed with hospitality and friendliness and we promise that your only wild experience will be Haugalandet’s fabulous nature – for it is not only wild, it is unbelievably wild and beautiful.      

If you are arriving in Haugalandet from the east and drive down towards Fjæra – the innermost point in Åkrafjorden Fjord - you will experience some breath-taking mountain formations that stoop directly down into the fjord. The awe-inspiring views continue when, a few minutes later, Langfoss Waterfall becomes visible, cascading down the mountainside giving passing cars a cold shower.  

This is just the beginning. Continuing west, one experiences fjord after fjord, each one successively more beautiful than the other. The renowned Blond Fjords are visible in Tysvær. Named after the light granite fjord-sides that reflect brightly in the fjord, the open landscape causes the sky and clouds to reflect in a way that enhances the pervading light colours. Tysvær is the home of Lars Hertervig, one of Norway’s most renowned landscape painters.  

Any fjord and mountain landscape is experienced at its best from the mountain tops. Summit trips suitable for all levels of fitness are to be found throughout the entire region. A trip of just a half hour in duration will provide you with a fabulous view out over the fjord landscape.  

So, once you’ve driven as far west as possible, the open sea is before you. On calm days the sea is blank and inviting and perfect for finding a viewpoint on the edge of the rocks. However, on days when the wind is gusting, the same rocks are to be avoided. Teasing the waves is no game as there is little doubt that the sea is merciless should one not be careful.  

What about the weather? Be assured that here in Hauglandet the weather comes in every possible variation – sometimes even all four seasons in one day. If you like wild weather, with wind that blows and pitches you, rain that comes in from the side instead of down and maybe turns to hailstones just for good measure, then we won’t recommend a fine summer day in July or August. Have you ever stood at the mouth of a fjord and felt the full force of a storm such that you need to use your sea legs to remain standing or find something to hold tightly onto? The storms of autumn and winter should be prescribed for everyone – a more refreshing and lively experience is not to be easily found elsewhere.  

Shakespeare said; “Call not impossible that which is viewed as wild”. Around Haugalandet, the wilderness is some of the best of what we have to offer!