Øygarden

Øygarden is located west of Bergen and is a great place for active, brisk and exciting experiences and learn about one of the most exiting episodes in Norway's war history.

You can enjoy accommodation with panoramic views of the sea, in a small traditional fisherman’s style rorbu or a first-class hotel. 

The fjord landscape opens up just a few minutes’ drive west of Bergen city centre. The ice retreated 10,000 years ago, leaving thousands of islands like pearls on a string. When the winter storms lash the coast, you will feel humbled by the forces of nature. Marstein Lighthouse is situated just a few kilometres from Panorama Hotell & Resort. This landmark, with its spectacular location, is truly unique. 

One of Norway's biggest war treasure troves

The area is a treasure trove for those interested in the history of the war and the occupation. The museums organised under the Museum Vest umbrella also give visitors an insight into authentic coastal culture and a glimpse of the generations who have made a living from the sea’s bounty all the way back to the Stone Age.

The incredible history of the North Sea Traffic Museum, Fjell Fortress, the Coastal Museum in Øygarden and Herdla Museum is enhanced by the beautiful surroundings – the scenery, the view, the air and the sea. Learn about one of the most well-known episodes of resistance fi ghting that culminated in the Telavåg tragedy. Walk through the exciting tunnels and the German defence fortifi cations at Fjell Fortress. At Herdla Museum, there is an exhibition on the German air base. The history of Fjell, Sund and Øygarden give the region a unique identity that you can only experience by being there. 

In the kindom of the sea eagle

From Marstein Lighthouse in the south to Hellesøy in the north of Øygarden, you can follow the horizon as you traverse the fantastic archipelago. You find yourself in the kingdom of the sea eagle, so take the opportunity to experience the world’s largest bird of prey at close range on your walks in the coastal landscape. With more than 236 different species of birds, Øygarden is one of the best places in Norway for birdwatching. In Tjeldstrømarka nature reserve alone, you can see 195 of them!

Hire a bike in Bergen and go island hopping. In summer you can bring your bike on the boat service between Hellesøy and Fedje – the community by the sea. 

With the sea as your playground!

The region west of Bergen offers a multitude of activities that make the most of the fascinating coastal landscape. Experience what it’s like to catch a whopper in the fantastic fi shing grounds off Sotra and Øygarden, which are ideal for deepsea fishing.

You can become one with the archipelago and the water in a sea kayak. Feel the forces of nature and ride the waves that crash against the shore. Seek shelter for the night, enjoy the long, light evenings and the panoramic view of the starry skies.

Walk coastal paths on Golta and enjoy views of the whole horizon. Go on a cliff walk and jump into the sea to try your hand at coasteering. Panorama Hotell & Resort offers a wide range of activities, experiences and accommodation options.

Go on a guided tour with Dive Bergen of nature’s gigantic aquarium, and dive between shoals of fish, benthic fauna, old shipwrecks and fascinating rock formations. A paradise for shell collectors, sports divers, scuba divers and wreck divers. Even the most adventurous souls will get a big kick out of Norway’s most spectacular climbing walls.

Flavours that enhance the experience

You need all of your senses to enjoy the coast to the full. On a small island in the archipelago, you can indulge your taste buds in some of the most exotic fl avours the coast has to offer. Cornelius Seafood Restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Norway, where you are served the freshest ingredients straight from the sea with a unique meteorological menu adapted to the weather and ingredients available. There are daily boat departures to Cornelius from Bryggen, and the trip takes 20 minutes. Enough time to whet your appetite ahead of your delicious meal.

Wild sheep graze on the islands along the ocean’s edge. Heather, sea salt and fresh sea air give Strilalammet lamb its delicious fl avour, and this product is fast becoming a sought after-ingredient along the Bergen coast. However, wonderful culinary experiences are not made of great ingredients alone. Enjoying a meal in the right environment enhances the experience. On fi ne days, the sliding doors are opened and light dishes are served on tables set on the quay. On rough days, we light candles in the lounges, light the fi re and serve food with stronger fl avours.