THE ISLAND HORN
PRIVATE HIKE
Short summary
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Set off on an invigorating hike that begins with a peaceful stroll to a scenic lake, where a dam crossing adds to the charm. As the trail gently ascends, it meanders through soft, marshy sections and the last remaining coastal heaths, shaped by centuries of grazing and controlled burning.
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Leaving the forest near The Island Horn, we pause at a carefully chosen viewpoint to soak in the sweeping panoramas. The final ascent to the 234-meter summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree view, showcasing much of Rogaland. Our return journey winds through a magical forest, transitioning into open landscapes before following a well-maintained gravel road. The last stretch leads us back through a picturesque cultural landscape, with wooden planks guiding the way across wetter terrain.
HIKERS:
Max 4 persons
Minimum age: 10
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DURATION:
Minimum:
6 hours
LENGTH:
Approximately:
6 km
DIFFICULTY:
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Hike Description
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A 40-minute drive from the pick-up point, including a journey 292 meters beneath the fjord from Stavanger, brings us to the trailhead. Upon arrival, we conduct an equipment check and make any necessary adjustments. A brief safety briefing follows, covering trail details, expected conditions, and essential hiking tips before we set off on today’s adventure.
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The hike begins along a cart track leading to Dalestemmen, a tranquil lake where we cross the dam. Beyond the lake, the trail gently ascends—often perceived as flat, yet featuring soft, marshy sections that highlight the importance of wearing ankle-high hiking boots.
As we make our way toward the summit, we pass through some of the region’s last remaining coastal heaths. Shaped over generations by burning, grazing, and heather cutting, these landscapes blend open terrain, dense coniferous forests, and diverse vegetation.
While Rennesøy was likely deforested and covered in heather 4,000 years ago, much of its heathland has gradually transitioned into grassy pastures over the past 30 years. Along the route, we encounter distinctive stone-post fences—iconic features that add to the area's historical charm.
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Emerging from the forest, the landscape opens up, bringing us closer to The Island Horn. Before tackling the final ascent, we pause at a scenic resting spot, enjoying a well-earned break with refreshments while taking in the already breathtaking views.
The final ascent is often windy due to its exposed position in Boknafjorden, but the reward is a spectacular, unobstructed 360-degree view.
From the 234-meter summit, you can see as far as Haugalandet and Karmøy in the north, deep into Ryfylke, and southward toward Jæren. The landscape unfolds beneath you, with well-kept farms and gracefully curving heaths adding to the scenery.
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The descent begins through a dense coniferous forest, creating a mysterious atmosphere, especially on overcast days. As we step back into open terrain, a well-established gravel road leads us for much of the return journey. The final stretch follows a familiar cultural landscape, with a well-maintained trail and wooden planks guiding us across the wettest areas.
Organisasjonsnummer: NO 832 127 922
Email: stavangeradventure@gmail.com​​
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