Haugesund is a young and vibrant town with roots dating back to Viking times.
The city of Haugesund by air
The Kvalen Lighthouse, Haugesund
Haugesund
Haugesund is a young and vibrant town with roots dating back to Viking times. The Viking, Harald Hårfagre, united Norway as a kingdom here. To commemorate his achievement, Norway’s National Unity Monument, Haraldshaugen, was erected just north of Haugesund. As with the Vikings, seafaring and trade symbolise this coastal region. The plentiful shoals of herring along the rugged coastline allowed Haugesund to develop into an important hub for fish export and, later, as Norway’s leading shipbuilding centre. Today, Haugesund is home to approximately 33 000 inhabitants but as the main regional centre of Haugalandet it serves over 100 000 people and is Norway’s leading commercial centre.
Culture
Haugesund hosts festivals for all age groups throughout the entire year. The two largest festivals are held in the month of August: the Sildajazz Festival and The Norwegian Film Festival. You will also find: Harbour Days, the World’s Longest Herring Table, the Salty Seas Race Weekend. Other large festivals taking place in Haugesund include: Safe as Milk Festival, Rockfest Haugesund, Night of Culture, Fartein Valen Festival, and Children are Best Festival. Haugesund has a rich cultural life and can provide exciting cultural experiences that appeal to all kinds of interests. Town walks guided by mobile phone are available all year. Your mobile phone acts as a private guide that recounts exciting tales about Haugesund.
The Inner Quay
Teeming with life day and night, Smedasundet Sound is at the very heart of Haugesund. Cafés, restaurants and pubs stretch the length of the decoratively paved promenade. Stroll along the quayside and take in the fresh sea air or stop for a coffee, a bite to eat or purchase fresh prawns and crab from local fishermen. Haugesund is a popular guest harbour - you can sail right into the heart of the town, while remaining only a few minutes from the wild and scenic countryside.
HAUGESUND MUNICIPALITY
Coastline: 16 km
Area: 72 km2
Inhabitants: 33.000
Main industries: Trade, services, off shore industry, shipping and maritime industry. Highest point: Klauv – 246 metres above sea level.
Røvær Island
Røvær is an unforgettable island which will provide you with peace and quiet. Experience the genuine hospitality of the car-free island of Rovær, a short 20-minute boat trip from Haugesund.