The area of Haugesund as a settlement dates back to at least 1217, when it was mentioned in the Norse Sagas. However, it wasn’t until 1854 that town rights were awarded by King Oscar I of Sweden and Norway. Today the town has a population of approximately 38,000 and is the natural ‘capital’ of the region, situated between the Boknafjord, north of Stavanger and south of the Hardangerfjord. Haugesund is inseparably linked to the sea and owes its prosperity to the successful herring industry, which thrived throughout the 19th century. Drive through the central parts of the town, past the pastel pink Town Hall, built in 1931 as a gift from a local ship owner and his wife. Continue towards ‘Haraldshaugen’, raised in 1872 as a national monument commemorating The Battle of Hafrsfjord where King Harald Fairhair won over the chieftains of 29 historic counties and gathered Norway into one kingdom. The monument is believed to be the site where King Harald Fairhair is buried. Proceed towards the Steinsfjellet viewpoint, a well-loved area of the locals and known as a picturesque starting point for nature walks and hikes. The viewpoint lies 227 metres above sea level, with impressive panoramic views of Haugesund and the surrounding areas.