Sandnes

Sandnes is a lively Norwegian city tucked just south of Stavanger, where fjord views and fresh sea air make it feel like somewhere truly special. For generations, the city built its reputation through skilled craftwork — shaping clay and firing bricks that helped construct buildings across the region. Today it has reinvented itself as one of Norway’s most forward-thinking places, where cycling isn’t just a hobby but a whole way of life. Smooth cycle paths crisscross the city, and you’re just as likely to spot a grandparent on a bike as a kid your age.

There’s plenty to explore beyond two wheels. Just outside the city, three giant Viking swords stand dramatically planted in coastal rock, marking the spot where Norway became a single unified kingdom over a thousand years ago. Back in the centre, the waterfront is perfect for a lazy stroll, while theatre shows, football matches, and visits to a real historic farm mean there’s always something exciting happening in Sandnes.