Discover Hellvik: Railway Routes and Nature

Get to know Hellvik through its railway connections, historic railway structures, archaeological traces and paths through the landscape. The various attractions and routes appeal to different interests.

Railway Connections and Historic Routes

Hellvik station is on the Sørlandsbanen. Trains run from there towards Stavanger and Egersund. Den Gamle Jærbanen is a separate route: this continuous walking and cycling trail runs from Hellvik to Egersund and largely follows the route of the old Jærbanen. There are numerous rest areas, stops and detours along the route.

The railway’s construction history also shapes the surrounding area. The section between Hellvik and Egersund was built from 1874 to 1878 as part of the Jærbanen between Egersund and Stavanger. Between Hellvik and Launessundet are railway-related stone structures, including walls, tunnels and cuttings. Those following the route will encounter various traces of the former railway line, while the station marks today’s train connection.

The Hellvik folkesti follows the existing path between Hellvik bedehus and Maurholen station. It offers a separate way to navigate between these two named points; it should not be confused with the entire Den Gamle Jærbanen route.

Rock Formations and Views

Hellvik Geita is a striking rock formation. The walk there offers views of Hellviksvatnet and, farther on, the coast. The path to Hellvik Geita is easy to follow and well marked. Those interested in the landscape and geology can combine the rock formation with views of the water and coast, without needing to set aside a specific amount of walking time.

The highest points along the route between Hellvik and Egersund also offer views across Eigerøya and Norda Sundet. These viewpoints complement the views of Hellviksvatnet and the coast on the walk to Hellvik Geita. The routes described can thus be distinguished by the directions in which they offer views.

Archaeological Traces in Hellvik

The archaeological field near Hellvik dates to the Iron Age. It comprises four round burial mounds and a house foundation. An automatically protected archaeological heritage site is located in the area of Hellvik skole. These traces add another dimension to the history of the area: alongside the later remains of the railway, archaeological evidence is also part of Hellvik’s story.

It helps to distinguish between the different periods represented. The railway line has a specifically documented construction period in the 19th century; the archaeological structures date to the Iron Age. Together with the railway-related stone structures, these sites offer traces from different eras in various locations.

Activities by the Water and in the Surrounding Area

Hellvikvatnet and nearby paths are suitable for swimming, fishing, hiking and relaxing. The bathing area at Hellvikvatnet has a diving tower and a swimming jetty, and is considered family-friendly. As individual facilities may change, check their status before planning a visit.

Another specific activity is available at Maurholen Golf Park in Hellvik. It has a 9-hole course and is run by Egersund Golf Club. As course details may change, it is advisable to check them before visiting. When choosing where to stay, you can therefore choose between walking and cycling routes, landscape and history, activities by the lake, and golf.

Discover more destinations: Eigersund, Helleland.

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