Sogndalstrand

On wild country roads - stop 2

Travel back in time

Experience Sogndalstrand, a protected small town where time seems to have stood still. Between the river and the sea, this former dockyard is a living piece of history, with weather-beaten boathouses and wooden houses preserved as they have been for generations. Look a little closer and you'll find more than cultural heritage. Galleries, small shops and local enthusiasts bring the place to life. On summer evenings, the natural amphitheatre is filled with concerts and outdoor stages, set against the backdrop of the sea and mountains.

Highlights from stop 2 - Sogndalstrand

Norwegian Scenic Route Jæren: A beautiful drive along one of Norway's 18 official national tourist routes, with dramatic coastlines, open sea and striking geological formations.
Sogndalstrand: A protected wooden house environment with buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, narrow streets, maritime history, local art and an evocative coastal atmosphere.

Jøssingfjord: A dramatic fjord landscape shaped by steep mountain walls, war history and ongoing mining. Viewpoints provide insight into the area's raw and powerful expression.
The houses under Helleren: Two iconic, roofless wooden houses from the 18th century that are naturally protected under a massive mountain overhang. One of Norway's most photographed cultural heritage sites.
Jøssingfjord Science Museum: A modern museum that conveys the history of geology, industry and everyday life in this distinctive fjord landscape.
Tunellstuo: A restored tunnel from 1921, converted into a unique picnic area with hammocks, a fire pit and views of the Migaren waterfall.
Nesvåg and the Sea and Motor Museum: A preserved coastal environment with old boathouses, maritime equipment, historic boat engines and clear traces of Sokndal's fishing traditions.
Nesvåghålo: A small sea cave with spectacular views of the North Sea and good photo opportunities.
Blåfjelldalen and Malmbanen: Former mining routes, stone bridges from the 1860s, quiet valleys, waterfalls and Northern Europe's largest pebble, Ruggesteinen.
Magma Geopark: A UNESCO Global Geopark known for its unique anorthosite landscape, often referred to as a moonscape, mining history and geological formations found almost nowhere else in the world.

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Explore more of Magma UNESCO Global Geopark here

The best experiences in Sogndalstrand

Meet a living history

Jøssingfjord Science Museum

The museum is a modern communication centre focusing on industry, geology and the people who have lived and worked in this dramatic fjord landscape. The exhibitions link nature and history, and provide insight into how the powerful landscape has shaped life in the region over generations.

The Jøssingfjord Science Museum is located in the middle of the magnificent landscape of Jøssingfjord, almost next door to the historic houses under Helleren, ready to welcome visitors from all over the world.

Helleren - the houses under the mountain

Two small houses sheltered under a large, natural rock overhang. The rock wall has been used as shelter and living space by humans for thousands of years. The slope forms a natural roof, where the overhang is so massive that the difference in height is up to 10 metres at its deepest.

Helleren in Jøssingfjord is open to the public, but please show consideration. The houses are not dimensioned for today's high visitor numbers, and the area can withstand limited loads.

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Jøssingfjord Viewpoint

A striking vantage point along the Jæren National Tourist Route, with sweeping views of the fjord, steep rock walls and clear traces of industrial history.

Tunnelstuo

Hang out and sleep in the mountains! A tunnel dating back to 1921 is now used as a distinctive accommodation option. From the light opening by the large stone table, you have a view of Jøssingfjord and the valley surrounded by steep mountainsides. Jøssingfjord is a paradise for rock climbers.

Tunnelstuo is also a rest area for cyclists and you can cycle through it. If you are travelling by car, there is a car park at Jøssingfjord Utsiktspunkt.

Nesvåghålo

A small sea cave overlooking the North Sea, offering dramatic coastal scenery and perfect photo opportunities. An adventurous hike with beautiful views of the sea, nature and the charming landscape along the trail. The trail runs along the cliffs, giving you panoramic views all the way.

No booking necessary, but be careful. In high seas and wet weather you should not go there, as it can be dangerous.

Sogndalstrand Sea rafting

Fast-paced RIB experiences along one of Norway's most dramatic coastlines.

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Sogndalstrand Kulturhotell

A historic hotel surrounded by wooden houses from the 18th and 19th centuries, known for local food, warm hospitality and cultural charm. The hotel consists of several buildings with a total of 29 rooms.

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Ruggesteinen – The rocking stone

Northern Europe's largest pebble, a 74-tonne geological curiosity in beautiful natural surroundings.

Motorcenter Norway

A modern motorsport arena offering go-karting, track driving and exciting activities with a wide view of Sokndal and the coastal landscape.

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MS Sjødis - Restored fishing vessel

Nesvåg Sea and Motor Museum offers guided tours and boat trips with the former shrimp trawler M/S Sjødis, as well as simple catering. Several times during the summer, there is an open café at this idyllic location.

MS Sjødis is a restored fishing vessel used for boat trips and provides an authentic experience of local maritime history.

Blåfjell Mines

A disused mining area with visible tunnels and remains of operations from the mid-1800s. The trip up Blåfjelldalen is 3.6 kilometres long and follows a gravel footpath and cycle path.