Top 9 Hiking Trails in Sandnes, Western Norway

From Varlivarden, 386 m, you have a panorama in all directions, overlooking mixed woodlands and deciduous forest contrasting with open areas. There are several starting points for the paths in the area, but if you arrive by car, the best parking is at ovre Hetland, at Myrland and at Maudland. The distance between ovre Hetland and Varlivarden is around 5 km. Many round trips are possible in the district. A round trip from Myrland takes about 1 1/2 hrs. whilst from ovre Hetland about 3 hours. The paths can be both rocky and marshy and therefore unsuitable for prams, pushchairs or wheel-chairs. (Sandnes)

Manafossen is Rogaland's biggest waterfall and Norway's ninth tallest free fall waterfall. From the parking area you proceed on foot along the southeast bank of the river. The path up to Manafossen is steep and rugged in places. The steepest spots have steps and chains that you can hold on to as you climb. From the path you have a fine view over Manafossen, which has a free fall of 92 metres. The waterfall is protected and is one of Rogaland's biggest tourist attractions. You can continue your trip into Mandal and visit Man farm. This was the first farm that was cleared in Fidjadalen valley - probably already in the early Middle Ages. On the lush grassy slopes around the main building there are numerous remnants of the mountain farm that was in use until 1915. Today the restored farmhouse is the only remaining original building. A new building sleeps 34 persons. In the basement you'll find an exhibition featuring the mountain farm's history, the conservation area Frafjordheiene and the work of the Jaeren Recreational Council. The basement also serves as a heated shelter, where you're welcome to warm up while you eat your lunch when visiting Man farm. Access: Follow the signs from the turnoff at E39 by algard, in the direction of Byrkjedal. Parking fee NOK 20. Season: Apr-oct Duration: 2hrs

From Kristiansand in the south to Haugesund in the north, this renowned coastal route treats you to magnificent and varied views of the North Sea. After leaving the town of Kristiansand, head northwest. You will soon leave behind the gentle landscape of Southern Norway and enter into Fjord Norway proper. The North Sea Road climbs as it winds its way past the dramatic Jossingfjord. It continues to Egersund, a major fisheries and ferry port. Further northwards are miles and miles of rough-hewn terrain that finally yield to the wide expanses of Jaeren. Here, as far as your eye can see, are cultivated fields and sand dunes, and beaches covered with sand or pebbles. The North Sea Road continues into lively Stavanger, European City of Culture in 2008. You can continue by ferry to the charming fishing village of Skudeneshavn on Karmoy. A little further, at the end of the journey, lies Haugesund, with a memorial to Harald Fairhair, who in 872 gathered Norway into one kingdom.

A family-friendly bicycle trail in Sandnes. Marked round trip that offers scenic and cultural experiences. A large part of the trip follows a vehicle-fee road in lush green surroundings on paths/bicycle paths. The bicycle route is ideal for family trips, relaxed rides and exercise trips. Start at the cultural centre, via Skeianetunet, then on through Sandvedparken to Ganddal, around Stokkelandsvatn lake to Tronsholen, along algardsveien to Austratt skole and continue on the bicycle path on the south side of the school to Iglemyr, then down through Gravarslia via Havnegata to the cultural centre. Distance 14 km. Separate map available from tourist information office in Sandnes.