Discover Steinstø

With the Hardanger Aquaculture Centre, Steinstø is a destination for anyone interested in aquaculture and salmon farming. The centre was established in 2007 as Norway’s first aquaculture demonstration centre.

The Hardanger Aquaculture Centre in Steinstø

The centre is housed in a floating building. On the first floor, there is an exhibition space with videos and displays about Norwegian salmon farming. Visitors can also see how salmon farming is practised. An underwater camera gives visitors a good view of life inside the fish farm enclosure; visitors can also go out onto the site to see the salmon up close.

The exhibition, camera and views of the salmon offer different ways to explore the subject: you can learn about Norwegian salmon farming in the exhibition space or observe the fish through the camera or from close up. Tastings are offered at the Hardanger Aquaculture Centre for groups. These group offerings are a separate addition to the opportunity to view the farming facilities and exhibition.

Steinstø and the views of the fjord

Steinstø is one of the settlements on the eastern side of the Fyksesund Landscape Park. The Steinstøberget rest area is nearby. From there, you can enjoy views of the Hardangerfjord and the Folgefonna Glacier. Steinstø therefore offers two distinct experiences: the Hardanger Aquaculture Centre, with its focus on salmon farming, and views of the fjord and glacier from the rest area.

More destinations in the wider destination of Kvam

Among Kvam’s natural attractions is Steinsdalsfossen, which has a 50-metre drop. Visitors can walk behind the waterfall without getting wet. Another way to combine nature and scenic views is the hike to Krokavatnet: it is 2.3 kilometres long and takes about 1.5 hours each way. The route is described as easy to access and offers views of the Hardangerfjord.

Kvam’s cultural attractions offer a range of experiences, too. In Øystese, the Kunsthuset Kabuso hosts changing exhibitions, concerts and events throughout the year. Hardanger Skyspace, a light installation by American artist James Turrell, is located right on the fjord shore in Øystese. The Ingebrigt Vik Museum houses the collection of one of Norway’s most prominent sculptors. The cultural offerings range from changing events and light art to a sculpture collection.

For another perspective on salmon farming, the Hardanger Aquaculture Centre in the wider destination of Kvam offers a RIB trip to an operational salmon farm. The trip begins at the exhibition rooms in Øystese with a visit to the interactive exhibition “Det er her vi bur” and then continues by RIB to the farm’s location in the fjord. Tour times are seasonal and subject to booking; check the times and booking details before planning your visit.

Agriculture is another subject to explore in Kvam: Spildegarden is a fourth-generation family farm that grows fruit and berries and produces apple juice and cider. Breievne Gard has a farm café and sells its own produce as well as processed specialities. Seasonal food service details may change; check them before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Norheimsund, Øystese, Tørvikbygd, Strandebarm, Omastrand

Back to the overview of the wider destination: Kvam.