The coastal town of Haugesund is considered the birthplace of Norway. The Haraldshaugen Monument marks its unification into one kingdom in 872 and is said to be where the first king of Norway was buried. All the typical characteristics of a seaside Norwegian town are here: rustic timber houses, stunning sea views from the quays and magnificent vistas of fjords from the Steinsfjellet viewpoint. The region’s cultural heritage is inextricably linked to the sea; built on the herring industry, surrounding charming towns have thrived on its success and continue to do so today.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
Panoramic Haugesund
Discover the rich history of Norway’s scenic coastal town that lays claim as the birthplace of Norway.
Skudeneshavn: The Town That Herrings Built
Gain insight into the 19th-century lives of people who built this coastal region on the herring fishing industry.
Viking History Center & St. Olav's Church
Gain unrivaled insight into the Viking culture that thrived here.
At Home in Haugesund
Be welcomed into the beautiful home of Anne and Leif Bjarte, garden designer and landscape architect.
Haugesund in Wartime
Learn about the efforts of local Norwegians to resist the World War II Nazi occupation on an eye-opening excursion.
Homeland of the Viking Kings
Travel back in time and meet the first Viking king of Norway: Harald Fairhair.
Highlights of Åkrafjorden
Cruise a fjord to see Langfoss Waterfall up close—voted by CNN as one of the world’s 10 most beautiful waterfalls.
Remote Røvaer Island by RIB Boat
Enjoy a thrilling trip by sea to a remote island off the coast of Haugesund.
Hike to Langfoss Waterfall
Be invigorated on this hiking tour along the old mountain pathway that runs from Eljarvik farm to Langfoss Støl.
