Stavanger

On the trail of the Vikings

Excursion

Price from $117

Difficulty level

Level 2: Moderate - some mobility needed

Booking code

E-SVG3, HRS-SVG1

Duration

3 hours

Notes

Read practical information below

Swords in Rock Stavanger Norway HGR 146810 Shutterstock
  • Walk in the footsteps of warriors at the interactive Viking House centre 

  • Stand on the site of one of Norway’s most significant battlegrounds 

  • Pay a visit to a mystical stone circle  

Our first stop is the ground-breaking Viking House, a Virtual Reality experience that recreates the exciting world of the Vikings and explores their connection with Stavanger. Through a short VR film, you’ll learn more about King Harold and the seminal Battle of Hafrsfjord – one of the most dramatic and significant events in Norway’s history, and one that resulted in the country’s unification. 

From here, we’ll make our way back to reality and visit the Swords in Rock monument, which commemorates the epic battle. Unveiled in 1983, the three 10-metre-high bronze swords symbolise peace, unity, and freedom.  

Our final stop will be the mysterious Domsteinene, an ancient stone circle that has baffled archaeologists, historians, and locals for more than 250 years. Theories abound as to its origin – was it a sacrificial site used by the Vikings? Or does it tell a story of directions in the sky? Perhaps you will make a breakthrough discovery during your visit.  

Practical information 

  • Languages: English and German 

  • Wheelchair accessible? No