Delve into dynamic Osterøy, an island where cozy villages are nestled among dramatic glacier-carved landscapes. This 127-square-mile (328-square-kilometer) island is cut off from the mainland by the Osterfjorden and Veafjorden, making it one of Northern Europe’s largest inland islands.
Visit the island’s quiet administrative center, Lonevåg, to see the birthplace of Borge Garveri, a leather-craft company that supplies the world’s highest fashion brands. Head to the larger town of Valestrandfossen to inspect the former home of Ole Bull, a famed Norwegian violinist. Most of the Osterøy’s major settlements are located on the flatlands on the west side of the island.
Discover the island’s heritage at Havråtunet or Havrå Farm. Explore this cultural memorial to see medieval farmhouses dating back to the 14th century and archeological sites that indicate that people have been living here for over 3,500 years. Journey through more living history at the Osterøy museum, an open-air museum in the pretty village of Gjerstad. Inspect 17th-century cottages and exhibits of artisanal weaving techniques passed down through generations.
Take a tour of the island’s gorgeous churches, including the 16th-century Hamre Church, with an original construction that dates back to the 11th century. Explore Hosanger Church, a stone and brick church built in 1796, to see a beautiful 17th-century silver chalice. Learn about the island’s industrial history at Herlandsfoss Kraftverk, a museum inside a former hydroelectric plant.
See the island’s dramatic scenery on the east side, where glaciers carved steep mountains and fjords during the last ice age. Hike trails above the pretty village of Bruvik or trek up Høgafjellet Mountain, Osterøy’s highest peak. Alternatively, enjoy the views as you fish for cod or catfish on the calm waters of the fjords.
Osterøy is a 1-hour drive northeast of Bergen. Get here by bus or car via the Osterøybrua Bridge, one of Norway’s longest suspension bridges.
For a historic and scenic Osterøy experience, take a sunset horseback ride along Kossdal Road. This century-old path winds through the pretty hills around Kossdal Lake.
