Historic Avaldsnes and Viking Village

Visit beautiful Karmøy island and gain an insight into the region known as the homeland of Viking kings.

Enjoy the sights on a scenic drive that takes you through Haugesund and across the Karmsund Bridge to the idyllic and verdant island, Karmøy. When you visit St Olav’s Church, a prominent landmark for seafarers passing through the strait of Karmsund for over 750 years, be sure to check that the Virgin Mary's Sewing Needle hasn’t moved recently. Legend has it that when the leaning 24-foot standing stone touches the outside wall, doomsday will come.

At the Nordvegen History Centre, find out about the princes and kings who ruled this area for over 3,000 years. And receive a warm welcome from a ‘Viking’ at the nearby Viking farm on pretty Bukkøy island. As you explore the reconstructed houses, you’ll discover fascinating facts about the customs and lives of the people who were far more than just violent raiders.