Herøysund – Beach, Hiking Trails and History

A beach by the marina, the Gråskallen hiking trail, and a historic route through outer Kvinnherad reveal different sides of Herøysund. For planning your trip, destinations in the wider Kvinnherad area are also relevant.

Herøysund locally

The name Herøysund refers to its location on a strait within the small island of Herøy. A beach lies next to Herøysund marina. Beach access and facilities may change; check both before your visit.

The bare ridge of Gråskallen lies between Husnes and Herøysund. A large stone cairn stands at the summit. From there, panoramic views extend across the islands and fjord landscape on the western and northern sides of the Hardangerfjord, from Varaldsøy to Halsnøy and out to sea.

The Gråskallen hiking trail is marked with the T symbol and signposted from the waterworks. A signposted and marked circular route around Hellvikvatnet is also recommended from the starting point of the Gråskallen hike in Herøysund. Check the route markings and trail conditions on site.

Historically, the route through outer Kvinnherad ran from Helvik in Herøysund via Husnes, Teigen, Valen, and Sandvoll to Ølfernes. For current hiking suggestions across Kvinnherad, Kvinnherad Turlag collects tour information; individual routes may change.

Culture and nature in the wider Kvinnherad area

Baroniet Rosendal, Norway’s only barony and Scandinavia’s smallest castle, is located in Rosendal. The estate includes a castle dating from 1665 and a garden with 300 years of garden history. Rosendal Havecafé serves lunch dishes made with ingredients from the kitchen and herb gardens, as well as coffee and cake. The café is seasonal; check its opening dates before visiting.

The history of Halsnøy Kloster dates back to 1163. The complex includes the ruins of the 14th-century monastery, a residence dating from 1841, and gardens. Guided tours, exhibitions, talks, and concerts take place there throughout the year. In Rosendal, Steinparken is also a visitor attraction of Folgefonna National Park. It showcases different types of rock from the region and exhibitions on prehistoric themes; stories focus on life on Earth, climate change, and fossils.

Bondhusvatnet near Sundal in the municipality of Kvinnherad is a popular hiking destination. The route there is short and easy and can be walked almost all year round; winter conditions can nevertheless affect access. Another hike leads to Malmangernuten: it can start in the centre of Rosendal at Rosendal Fjordhotel, takes about four hours in total, and reaches a summit 890 metres high. From there, views extend across Rosendal, the neighbouring towns, and the Hardangerfjord. Weather and trail conditions may vary.

Discover more destinations: Løfallstrand, Sæbøvik, Uskedalen, Åkra, Fjelberg, Hatlestrand, Mauranger, Sunde.

View the wider travel guide: Kvinnherad.