Masfjorden: Fjord Views, Mountain Trails and Coastal Culture

The Fjordblikk day-trip cabin is located on the shore at Grøttneset, between Mjanger and Kvingo in Masfjorden. Hiking trails lead to glacial potholes and sweeping fjord views; in the west, a skerry landscape offers opportunities by the water. Sandnes and Matre also have places that provide insight into architectural history, local industry and the final days of the war in 1945. This mix of scenery, outdoor activities and culture gives a trip through Masfjorden several distinct points of focus.

Hiking Trails and Mountain Views

The Stegane trail to Hummelvatnet is about 0.5 kilometres long and has an elevation gain of 250 metres. From the trail, the summit offers views of striking glacial potholes. The route thus combines specific measurements with a distinctive natural feature.

The Nonkletten trail starts behind the shop in Haugsvær. The trailhead is signposted, and the route remains easy to follow; the hike offers views across Masfjorden. The two hikes have different highlights: the glacial potholes on the Stegane trail and the fjord views from Nonkletten.

The distinctive Ådneburen stands 797 metres high. Its route passes through forest, follows an old livestock trail, climbs steps and crosses scree. From the Ådneburen route, views stretch from the Sognefjord in the north to Bergen in the south. The Fjonfjella and Matrefjella also offer rewarding mountain hiking terrain in Masfjorden.

History and Cultural Sites

Nothuset in Sandnes was built around 1880. Together with the Masfjord boats, it tells an important part of the local history of the municipality of Masfjorden; both are part of the architectural heritage of coastal culture. The rectangular wooden church, Sandnes kyrkje, was built in 1845—a further specific landmark in the municipality’s architectural history.

At the Bjørn West Museum in Matre, you can learn more about the dramatic struggle during the final days of the war in 1945. On display are weapons, equipment and personal belongings of Bjørn West soldiers and local contacts. This chapter of history is brought to life through objects associated with the people involved.

The exhibition at Kvamsdals Fargeri tells the story of 60 years of small-scale industrial activity in Sandnes, Masfjorden. The former drying loft of the Fargeri now serves as an exhibition and concert venue. Sandneskafeen serves homemade food prepared with local ingredients.

Skerry Landscape and Regional Setting

The western part of Masfjorden has a West Norwegian skerry landscape suitable for paddling, swimming and boating. The Fjon cable ferry crosses the Masfjorden. If you plan to use this ferry, check the timetable before setting off.

Beyond Masfjorden, the Stølsheimen mountain area stretches between Masfjorden in the west, the Sognefjord in the north and Voss in the east. This wider geographical setting adds a regional perspective to the local hiking and fjord themes.

Discover more destinations: Masfjordnes, Haugsvær, Hosteland, Matre, Etne, Modalen, Kvam, Bømlo.

For the main travel overview: Hordaland.