Excursion Homeland of the vikings tour at Haugesund

Travel back in time to experience the place in Norway that was first ice-free area, Avaldsnes, the site is also home to the first king - Harald Fair-haired.

Nordvegen History Center

Depart the pier by coach for a scenic sightseeing tour of the city. At the Nordvegen History Center you will be given the history with modern instruments, where the senses are stimulated to enhance the overall experience. With both audio, lights, images and movie - Harald Fair-haired himself will guide us on a journey through 3,500 years.

St. Olav's Church

Outside the history centre is St. Olav's Church, built by king Haakon Hakonson around 1250 AD. Visit inside the church to learn more about how important this church is to Norway. Norway's power was then at its greatest and the church therefore can be seen as a symbol of the unification of the Norwegian Kingdom completed by Håkon Håkonson.

An interesting standing obelisk is located behind the Church, it's the sewing needle of Virgin Mary which is the only one remaining of several monumental stones which once stood around the church area. The stone leans in towards the church wall and a saga tells that "the day of Judgement will come when the stone comes into contact with the church wall"

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Haugesund, Avaldsnes, Nordvegen History Centre, St. Olav's Church, Virgin Mary Monument

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking .3 mile (500 metres) on uneven grounds and 57 steps however an elevator is available. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and those guests who utilise a wheelchair. The St. Olav Church can close on short notice due to funerals. A visit of the exterior will then be made. The order of sights may vary. Local currency is required for restroom facilities. Local vehicles are utilised; coaches may not be equipped with air-conditioned cooling.