Hotels in Førde

Located where the River Jølstra meets the Førdefjorden, Førde is a picturesque town centred around the industrial waterfront neighbourhood of Øyrane. It’s famed for its giant salmon sculpture and annual folk music festival and is surrounded by photogenic waterfalls and traditional Norwegian farms.

Things to do in Førde

A short walk from the centre of Førde is one of the town’s most iconic landmarks - a 65-metre-long salmon sculpture that’s been crafted from stone. It was designed by Jørn Rønnau and is positioned on the banks of the River Jølstra. It’s not far from the regional cultural centre, Førdehuset, where live concerts, exhibitions and events are held throughout the year.

Discover the region’s spectacular natural beauty during a scenic drive on Norwegian County Road 13, which is one of 18 National Tourist Roads in Norway. Drive through quintessential farming communities and down dramatic hairpin bends that lead to the shores of Vetlefjorden. There are several waterfalls to see along the way, including the 90-metre-tall Huldefossen that cascades into a lush valley below.

Learn about 19th-century rural life at the open-air Sunnfjord Museum, which comprises around 25 historic buildings that have been transported from throughout the district. After admiring the vintage tools, clothes and textiles on display, you can stretch your legs on the Mostien or Dyreløypa hiking trails that depart from the museum. Both are dotted with interpretive panels detailing the region’s natural and cultural history.

Getting around Førde

Førde Airport is a 20-minute drive from the town centre and has regular flights to Oslo, Bergen and Sandane or the larger Bergen Airport is a 3.5-hour drive away. Buses connect Førde with towns and cities throughout Norway while the centre is compact enough to explore on foot.