Haugesund Panorama

Haugesund's story begins in 1217, as noted in the Norse Sagas, but it became an official town in 1854 under King Oscar I. Today, with 35,000 residents, it thrives as a regional hub between Boknafjord and Hardangerfjord. Once flourishing with the 19th-century herring boom, Haugesund offers a blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery. Visit the iconic pastel-pink Town Hall (1931), a gift from a local shipowner, and Haraldshaugen, a monument honoring King Harald Fairhair's unification of Norway after the Battle of Hafrsfjord. Don't miss Steinsfjellet viewpoint, a local favorite, standing 227 meters above sea level, with sweeping views of the town and surrounding fjords. Haugesund's charm, history, and breathtaking landscapes await you.