Austevoll: Island Nature Between Rock and Sea

Austevoll is an island realm consisting of 667 islands, with rocky shores, straits, heathland, and pine forests. If you are looking for a hotel for a trip here, you can first consider which landscapes and activities you want to shape your stay: geological features, hiking, coastal culture, or experiences on and under the water. The islands offer a range of starting points, from marked trails to exposed waters.

Geology, Coastline, and Cultural Landscape

Raugholmen in Bekkjarvik is home to red rocks of peridotite, harzburgite, and olivine. They formed in the transition zone between the Earth's mantle and the oceanic crust. On the western edge of Møkster lies the coastal landscape of Røyrvikeskaget. There, granite dikes have intruded into marble and quartzite. The two locations showcase different geological features: red rocks on Raugholmen and granite dikes in marble and quartzite at Røyrvikeskaget.

Access to Røyrvikeskaget by ferry or private boat depends on the weather. Kayaking is possible there, but the waters are very exposed. The Old Norse wild sheep have grazed along Austevoll's coast for more than a thousand years and are an important part of the cultural landscape. The coast is therefore where distinctive rock formations meet a long tradition of grazing.

Hiking and Cycling in the Island Realm

Marked hiking trails pass through forest and heathland to mountain peaks overlooking the island realm. Popular routes can be found on Stolmen, Selbjørn, Hundvåkøy, and Storekalsøy. If hiking is a priority, compare the different trails and check their conditions locally. The landscape combines forest sections with open heathland and mountain views. There is also a day cabin near the summit of Loddo, with panoramic views.

Cycling routes follow scenic roads and coastal paths through gently rolling terrain. Hiking and cycling therefore offer different perspectives on Austevoll: marked trails pass through forest and heathland to the peaks, while cycling routes take in roads and coastal paths.

Activities on and by the Water

For sea kayaking, Havstril Padleklubb provides information and activities for beginners and experienced paddlers. Austevoll also has dive sites accessible from shore and by boat. The underwater terrain is described as varied, and the water as clear. Check locally how equipment and facilities for filling breathing-air cylinders are arranged.

Olaskjeret offers guided sea eagle safaris as well as organised boat trips, fishing trips in a sloop, and RIB safaris. If you plan to include one of these trips in your itinerary, confirm dates and availability with the provider in advance. Alongside independent activities such as cycling and hiking, you can also choose guided experiences and boat trips.

Swimming spots in Austevoll offer clear water, sheltered coves, and rocky shores. Some are child-friendly and easy to access, but conditions vary from one swimming spot to another. In Storebø, Austevollbadet has swimming lanes, a children's pool, and Wibit play areas. Check opening times before travelling if you are planning a visit. You can consider coastal swimming spots and the facilities at Austevollbadet as different options for your trip.

Culture and Other Attractions

Nothengja in Bekkjarvik was built to dry cotton fishing nets and is now a cultural venue with a stage. Guided tours of the old trading post and the fisheries museum are also offered in Bekkjarvik; arrange dates with Austevoll reiselivslag. The building's former purpose and its current cultural use offer different insights into the area.

Austevollhallen also has a climbing wall that is open year-round. Together with the hiking trails, cycling, and activities on the water, it offers a range of activities to consider when planning your trip.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Stolmen, Bekkjarvik, Kalve, Kolbeinsvik, Storebø, Bakkasund, Vestre Vinnesvåg, Torangsvåg, Litlakalsøy, Våge.

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