Discover Sauda

You can get to know Sauda through its industrial and working-class history, while also including marked trails and green spaces in your travel plans. Historic settlements, buildings and exhibitions offer different insights into the town’s development. For time outdoors, marked hiking trails and Andedammen Park offer other things to explore.

Industrial history and architecture

Åbøbyen was built from 1916 for workers and employees of Sauda Smelteverk. The settlement comprises around 120 houses built by the Canadian Electric Furnace Products Company LTD. It is considered one of the best-preserved workers’ settlements from the development of energy-intensive industry in Norway. Its architecture showcases examples from different periods: neoclassical forms from the 1920s, as well as functionalist and post-war architecture.

At the Industriarbeidermuseet, two furnished apartments show how workers lived in the 1920s and 1960s. The exhibition also explores the lives of smelter workers, housewives and children in Åbøbyen. This lets you discover the settlement not only through its houses, but also through the everyday lives of different groups of residents. The museum is just a few minutes’ walk from the shopping streets in Sauda.

Folkets Hus is also part of Sauda’s industrial and working-class history. The Stavanger architect Gustav Helland designed the building, which was completed in 1931. It played a central role in Sauda’s modernisation. The historic building has two halls for concerts, performances and conferences. As the programme can change, check event dates when making specific plans.

Sauda kirke was built on Øyra in 1866. The wooden long church has 350 seats. It adds another chapter to the town’s history and differs significantly in its construction period and function from the workers’ settlements and Folkets Hus.

Marked trails and finding your way around town

The Bunkersen Trail is marked from Varden, by Saudahallen in the centre of Sauda. Varden itself is a cairn between Folkets Hus and the swimming pool; signs there point to popular hiking trails and paths. You can extend the Bunkersen Trail along a marked path to Tempreidnuten and a viewpoint overlooking Sauda and the fjord. Parking along the trail is limited, and some rocky surfaces can be slippery on the descent. Conditions can vary with the weather.

Other marked hiking trails start in the centre and pass through Andedammen. A marked trail to Fløgstadåsen also starts in the centre and heads north. This gives you several routes to choose from without assuming an unverified walking time or difficulty level.

Andedammen and activities

Andedammen is a park and green space right next to the centre of Sauda, on the edge of historic Åbøbyen. It has tables, benches and barbecue facilities; a covered seating area is available in bad weather. As facilities may change, it is a good idea to check their condition before visiting. In summer, animals at Andedammen include goats, rabbits, pigs, ducks and goldfish.

A mini-golf course is located right next to Andedammen Family Park and is considered a family activity for people of all ages. If you’re looking for activities on wheels, the sports park on the opposite side of the river from the centre has a paved pump track. It is designed for bicycles, scooters, roller skates and skateboards. In the Sauda area, Mayuc Kayak also offers kayak, paddleboard and canoe rentals, as well as courses and guided tours.

Visitor information and events

Sauda’s tourist information office is centrally located at Rådhusgata 31. It offers free maps, brochures, inspiration and visitor information. For exploring the area, this information can help you find your way around, alongside the signs at Varden.

Sauda hosts the annual farmers’ market Bønder i Byn. If you want to include the market in your trip, check the dates before setting off. The combination of industrial history, marked trails, green spaces and individual leisure activities offers different ways to shape your stay in Sauda around your interests.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Utsira, Sola, Vassøy, Oanes, Randaberg, Bokn.

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