Hjelmeland: Fjord landscapes and cultural heritage

Fjord landscapes and striking landmarks

An unusual landmark in Hjelmelandsvågen is the world’s largest Jærstol chair. About 4.5 metres tall, it stands near the river mouth. The landscape around the Jøsenfjorden also defines the destination. The fjord extends into Hjelmeland municipality, and the rock formation Skomakarnibbå rises 700 metres above it. Here, very different scales meet beside the fjord: a chair that stands out from afar and a rock formation high above the water.

The hike to Skomakarnibbå takes about five to six hours for the round trip from the car park. Allow a substantial block of time in your day for the hike; conditions may vary. Another geological feature is Ritlandskrateret: the meteorite crater is about 2.7 kilometres in diameter. The hike starts at the car park in Kleivaland in Vormedalen and follows mostly a tractor road through easy terrain with a firm surface. Trail conditions may vary here too.

In eastern Hjelmeland lies the Lusaheia protected landscape area, which extends to the border with Agder county. On Jøsneset, Gunlanuten is the highest point at 829 metres; it lies between the Jøsenfjorden, Ombofjorden and Erfjord. These details offer two different landmarks in the landscape: a protected area in the east and a high point between three fjords.

Hiking trails and different time commitments

Two hikes with stated round-trip times can help with planning: the hike to Skomakarnibbå takes about five to six hours, while the marked Prestavegen trail from Årdal to Eggjabø takes approximately two hours. The hikes therefore require very different amounts of time. The Fisterbu day cabin is on Fisterfjellet and offers views across Ryfylke. The Eventyrskogen sensory trail is in Bønardalen in Årdal.

Cultural sites and history

Spinneriet is an industrial building dating from 1873 that has been restored for cultural purposes. An exhibition and summer café are open there during the summer season. As both are seasonal, it is advisable to check the latest opening details before travelling. Hjelmeland Tourist Information is also located in Spinneriet. It offers brochures and tips on accommodation, activities and short hikes in the area; opening arrangements may change.

A walking path in Hjelmelandsvågen takes you past old and new architecture. Skulp-Turen is also a walking path in Hjelmelandsvågen, featuring various sculptures. Those interested in architectural styles can enjoy both a look at the village’s architecture and a path that focuses on its sculptures.

Årdal gamle kyrkje is a wooden Renaissance church; its oldest part dates back to 1619. The old farmstead Vigatunet offers another way to explore history: written records trace its history back to the 16th century. The farm was taken over as a museum farm in 1970. During its summer opening, visitors can tour the various buildings, learn about farming and experience what life on the farm was like. Check the latest visiting arrangements before your visit.

Visits, transport and local produce

Trodla-Tysdal lies at the innermost end of Øvre Tysdalsvatnet, where a sheep farm and a tourism business operate. Day visitors can walk along the farm grounds into the valley, picnic on the beach or swim in Øvre Tysdalsvatnet. These options suit different interests: a walk into the valley, a break on the beach or time by the lake. Check the latest visiting arrangements before travelling.

Public transport in Hjelmeland includes bus services, express boats and ferries; check current timetables separately. A fjord cruise on the Jøsenfjorden goes as far as Førrebotn. It runs seasonally, so it is advisable to check the latest departures before travelling. For local information, Hjelmeland Tourist Information may be helpful, with brochures and tips on activities and short hikes.

Various farm shops in Hjelmeland sell local berries, fruit, vegetables, cheese, yoghurt, honey, eggs, apple juice and cider. Participating producers and available products may change, so check what is currently on offer locally.

Discover more destinations: Nessa, Jøsenfjorden, Hjelmeland, Fister, Årdal I Ryfylke, Skiftun, Forsand, Rennesøy.

See the main travel overview: Rogaland.