Cycle through history and coastal charm on the scenic country roads of Karmøy.
Karmøy is located outside Haugesund and is an island known for its charming wooden houses, Viking history, rugged coastline with white beaches, and many hidden gems.
The tour starts from the pier in Haugesund. Follow the road south until you reach Karmøy Bridge after approximately 4.5 km. The bridge is quite narrow and not ideal for cycling, but it’s the only way over to Karmøy. At Visnes, you can see the Little Statue of Liberty. The copper for the original Statue of Liberty in New York comes from Visnes. The Mining Museum can be visited to learn more about the history of this unique mining community.
West on Karmøy is Åkrehamn, with strong roots in fishing and agriculture. The beaches of Karmøy are famous for their white sand and blue sea, and Åkrasanden is a long, child-friendly beach also popular with kite surfers and windsurfers. Ferkingstad Beach is another beautiful beach. Don’t miss the natural phenomenon Dueglåp, a cave with rock formations and potholes, which can be reached by a short walk.
At the southwestern side you´ll find Syreneset Fort. It’s 1.3 km on a path/good hiking trail to reach this coastal fort from World War II.
Skudeneshavn is an idyllic place with white houses, narrow streets, and a charming old town. Here, you can see signs of influences from around the world, brought home by sailors during Skudeneshavn’s heyday.
On the way back, a stop at the historic area of Avaldsnes is recommended, with the Nordvegen History Center and a reconstructed Viking farm. Avaldsnes Church is a stone church from the Middle Ages.
Since this is a long ride, some may want to do the trip in two days. There are several accomodations at Karmøy – at Sandve, Skudeneshavn and Høyevarde.
At Visnes, you can see the Little Statue of Liberty. The copper for the original Statue of Liberty in New York comes from Visnes.
