Ola Flytt – Haugesund's most famous boatman
Ola Flytt is Haugesund's most famous boatman and you’ll find a statue in his honour on Risøy island. Before there were bridges, it was the boatmen’s job to transport people from the town islands (Risøy and Hasseløy) to the town centre. You’ll have trouble finding a local who can't sing a few lines from the song about Ola Flytt: 'Ongane på Risøynå'.
Indre Kai quay
Herring fisheries were an important industry for Haugesund in the 1840s and formed the basis for the town’s growth and status. Indre Kai was considered a safe and good port for fishermen, and was extensively utilised for unloading and processing fish. In recent years, the quay has in many ways become the very symbol of the town of Haugesund.
Baardsen on the quay
Chr. Baardsen & Søn, situated in the quay, has characterised the townscape for more than 80 years and is considered a bit of an institution. They sell everything you might need for fishing and boating, including sailing gear and other accessories.
The fishermen on the quay
The fishermen standing on the dock looking across the strait are the very symbol of Haugesund's rich shipping and fishing history. The statue was unveiled in 1920 and was donated by the shipping company Stolt-Nielsen. The sculpture was created by the artist Sofus Madsen.
K-fisk – a fish shop in Haugesund town centre
Pay a visit to K-fisk in Haraldsgata and check out their large range of fish products, fresh fish and shellfish. They have a wide variety of ocean delicacies at the counter, as well as a number of hot dishes. How about taking a delicious warm fish cake with you as you carry on exploring?
Karmsund Folk Museum
The tour then continues to Karmsund Folk Museum, where you can take a deep dive into the town's history. Combine a summer visit to Haugesund with a visit to Dokken Museum on Hasseløy island (known locally as Bakarøy island), where you can experience what Haugesund was like 150 years ago.
Staalehuset – an iconic building that’s worth the detour
The name Staalehuset derives from what was once Norway's largest exporter of herring – the ‘King of Herring’ Steffen Staalesen. The building was completed in 1919. At that time, it was Northern Europe's largest concrete Art Nouveau building. Nowadays, Staalehuset is used as a venue for theatre, parties, conferences, fairs and concerts etc.
Enjoy a fish dinner at Naustet Restaurant
Naustet Restaurant serves the most delicious fish dishes and is situated right next to Smedasundet strait at Quality Hotel Maritim.
