STAVANGER, NORWAY

From Ullandhaug we can enjoy a magnificent view (weather permitting) over Hafrsfjord, where the Viking King Harald Harfagre (Fairhair) defeated the last of the regional princes and united the 29 small kingdoms under one crown, in 872. A visit will be made to the monument ‘Three Swords in the Rock’, where three majestic swords are planted in the mountain as a memorial to King Harald.

Leaving the pier by coach, we will pass rich agricultural countryside before arriving at Ullandhaug, with its reconstructed Iron Age farmhouses (we do not have time for a visit). From Ullandhaug we can enjoy a magnificent view (weather permitting) over Hafrsfjord, where the Viking King Harald Harfagre (Fairhair) defeated the last of the regional princes and united the 29 small kingdoms under one crown, in 872. A visit will be made to the monument ‘Three Swords in the Rock’, where three majestic swords are planted in the mountain as a memorial to King Harald. We then proceed to the Norwegian Petrol Museum presenting the Norwegian oil story. The Museum has a location by the sea in the centre of Stavanger, with a view of the fjord and mountains – at the heart of the city’s maritime environment. The Norwegian Petrol Museum is a living museum with interactive experiences and a modern design. We can walk through the history of Norwegian oil and learn about the geology of the North Sea, the great technological milestones and the effect of oil on society. The installations in the sea give us a feeling of being taken out to the oilfields, to get a glimpse of the offshore life. Passing through old and new sections of Stavanger, we arrive at the Cathedral. It was built around 1125 by Bishop Reinald of Winchester with the aid of some British craftsmen. St Swithin is the patron saint. Of all the Norwegian churches built during the Middle Ages, Stavanger Cathedral is the only one that has retained its original features. On the way back to our ship we will have the option to walk through Old Stavanger, with its narrow lanes and picturesque wooden houses. The 18th and 19th century houses were built mainly for seafarers, craftsmen and businessmen. This particular area is today considered to be unique, and the city’s most important preservation project.

A moderate amount of walking is involved (possibly including a rather long walk to/from the tour bus, depending on our ship’s berth), however, the approximate 20 minute walk through Old Stavanger back to the ship (which includes cobblestones and a steep lane or steps) is optional, and passengers can return by bus to the pier. Places of interest may be visited in a different order than that described.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 NORWAY CRUISES