Our first port of call brought us to Haugesund, Norway, a coastal town steeped in Viking history and natural beauty. The day began with a touch of mystery—thick fog blanketed the harbor as we arrived, giving our approach an almost cinematic feel. But by the time we reached Avaldsnes, the skies had cleared, revealing the lush, green landscape that awaited us.

Our shore excursion started at the Nordvegen History Centre, where we explored the rich heritage of Norway’s Viking past. The exhibits offered a fascinating look at Avaldsnes’ role as a royal seat and trading hub during the Viking Age.

From there, we walked a scenic path to the Viking Farm, located on a small island nearby. The reconstructed village featured a longhouse, roundhouse, and several outbuildings, all designed to reflect life on a Viking farm. Guides dressed in traditional Viking attire brought the site to life with stories and demonstrations, making it easy to imagine what life was like over a thousand years ago.

Before leaving Avaldsnes, we also visited the striking St. Olav’s Church, a medieval stone church that stands as a testament to the area’s long and layered history.

Back in Haugesund, our guide dropped us off at the pedestrian street in the town center. We spent the afternoon strolling past shops and cafés, picking up a few souvenirs, and admiring local landmarks like the Fiskerne statue and City Hall.

By late afternoon, we returned to the ship, tired but inspired by our first taste of Norway. From foggy beginnings to Viking tales and sunny streets, Haugesund gave us a memorable start to our Scandinavian adventure.