Excursion Stavanger highlights tour at Stavanger

Stavanger and the surrounding areas have for centuries played a leading part in Norway's maritime history, from the time when the Viking Kings battled in Hafrsfjord, through the period of the "white sails" and the steamships up to modern super-tankers. Stavanger is also the most important "oil-city" in Norway due to its geographical position.

Ullandhaug

This tour will show you much of the city's history. Board the coach for a 30 minute drive to the Iron Age Farm. We start by driving through the center towards the outskirts, passing fertile land on the way to Ullandhaug where we shall visit the reconstructed farmhouses from the Iron Age. In one of the low houses with turf roof you will learn more about the living conditions around the year 500 A.D. A local guide will demonstrate how they made flour, wove their clothes and many other things. From Ullandhaug viewpoint, observe the fertile farmland of Jaeren with the Ryfylke Mountains as a backdrop. To the West have a magnificent view over Hafrsfjord, where the Viking-King Harald Haarfagre (the Fair-haired) in 872 defeated the last of the regional princes and united the 29 small kingdoms under one crown. A monument was recently raised to commemorate this event, called "Sword in Rock". There are three Viking swords more than 30 feet (9 metres) high and forced into the ground.

Petroleum Museum

Next board the bus for a short ride to visit to the Petroleum Museum which opened in 1999. The striking building is situated on a small island in the middle of the harbour and the museum enables you to get a glimpse of "offshore" life in the North Sea!

On the way back to the ship, you have the option to walk on foot through "Old Stavanger". The picturesque, well-preserved wooden houses are in narrow lanes, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The houses were mostly built for seafaring people, craftsmen or businessmen. This particular area is today considered to be unique and the city's most important rehabilitation project. It is situated only minutes away from where your ship is docked.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Stavanger, North Sea, Ullandhaug, Iron Age Farmhouse, Jaeren, Ryfylke Mountains, Hafrsfjord, Sword in Rock Monument, Petroleum Museum, Old Stavanger

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking on grass, gravel, mud paths and uneven grounds. It is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair, or guests with limited mobility. It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing that can get soiled. The order of sights may vary. Local currency is required for restroom facilities. Local vehicles are utilised; coaches may not be equipped with air-conditioned cooling.