Stord: Nature, Culture and Hiking
Accommodation in Stord
Stord is an island of mountains, sea, fjords, lakes, small islands and forests. Experiences range from nature areas and coastal paths to mountain hikes, museums and reminders of industrial history. This makes it easy to shape your trip around your interests: spend time outdoors, visit collections and historical sites, or combine both.
Landscape and hiking
Hystadmarkjo is a nature reserve known for its rare black alder forest. It is also a coastal walking trail, suitable for fishing and swimming. Beach conditions vary by season; bear this in mind if you plan to swim there.
At 724 metres, Kattnakken is the second-highest point on Stord. The hike to the summit takes about one to two hours; access conditions may vary seasonally. Another hike leads to Utsletteslottet at Utslettefjellet in Sagvåg. The day cabin is located on the mountain, and the walk from the car park takes about an hour. For comparison, these are two different destinations, with estimated walking times of about one to two hours and about one hour, respectively. The mountain hike at Utslettefjellet also offers views of the islands of Stord and Bømlo.
Museums and history
Sunnhordlandstunet in Vidstenparken on Stord is the visitor and administrative centre of the Sunnhordland Museum. Eleven buildings from different parts of the Sunnhordland region have been brought together on the museum grounds. Visitors can explore the exhibitions in the main building. As the programme may change, check the current exhibitions before your visit.
The gardens at Rommetveit have a focus of their own: they feature more than 150 tree species from Scandinavia and more exotic regions of the world. Stord Church was built in 1857 on the foundations of a stone church dating from the 14th century. Together, they offer two different historical perspectives: a collection of buildings from the region and a church with a medieval predecessor.
Another reminder of industrial history can be found in Litlabø. Visitors can ride the mine railway into the dark mine tunnels. Guided activities include railway trips to Høgåsen and walking tours through the tunnels. Visitor activities are seasonal; check dates and booking requirements before travelling. Stord’s industrial history includes the sulphur mine in Litlabø, which employed up to 400 people there from 1865 to 1968.
Art and getting around Leirvik
Storddøra is a sculpture on Leirvik’s harbour promenade. In the same town, Stord Church is within walking distance of the centre, while Leirvik marina is close to the centre. These landmarks complement the nature and museum experiences with public art and a view of the harbour area.
For the main travel overview: Stord.
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