6 great mountain hikes starting from Sokn Camping

Written by Frode Steine

1. Mastravarden (154 m) – View of the archipelago

This is the closest hike from the campsite and a local favorite for a quick stroll.

  • About the hike: An easy hike that provides a fantastic 360-degree view of Mastrafjorden, Rennesøy and Boknafjorden.

  • Suitable for: Everyone, including families with young children and those who want an uncomplicated evening trip.

  • How to get here: Drive over the bridge to Mosterøy (5 min). Follow the signs to Mastravarden and park at the parking lot at the start of the trail.

2. Rennesøyhodnet (282 m) – The roof of Rennesøy

This is the highest peak on the green islands and gives a real sense of accomplishment without being too demanding.

  • About the hike: The hike goes through beautiful cultural landscape with stone fences and grazing animals. At the top it feels like you can see all of Rogaland.

  • Suitable for: Most people with normal physical fitness. The trail is clear, but has some steep sections.

  • How to get here: Drive north through the Mastrafjord Tunnel to Rennesøy (approx. 10-15 min). Park at Sel (Dalaker) or Østhusvik to start the trip.

3. Dalsnuten (323 m) – The region's most popular

If you're only going to take one walk in Sandnes, this is it. The view over Jæren and Stavanger is iconic.

  • About the trip: A very well-organized trip with a gravel path for much of the way, before a slightly more rocky section towards the end.

  • Suitable for: Families with children, exercisers and tourists. Very child-friendly.

  • How to get here: Drive E39 south through Rennfast towards Sandnes (approx. 30 min). Follow signs towards Dale and turn off towards Gramstad where there is a large parking lot.

4. Lifjell from Dale – The scenic route

Lifjell can be climbed from several sides, and the trip from Dale gives you a wonderful coastal feeling along the Gandsfjorden.

  • About the trip: A varied trip with some hilly terrain and fantastic views into the fjord towards Stavanger.

  • Suitable for: Hikers who like a slightly more technical trail with roots and rocks. Good hiking shoes are recommended.

  • How to get here: Drive to Sandnes and follow the road towards Dale (approx. 35-40 min from Sokn). Park at the old hospital by the fjord.

5. Lifjell from Li – The effective training route

This is the fastest way to the top of Lifjell for those who want to get their heart rate up quickly.

  • About the hike: A steeper and more direct route than from Dale. You quickly reach the top and are rewarded with the large telephone mast and expansive views.

  • Suitable for: Those who want a good workout or a shorter route to the top.

  • How to get here: Drive towards Hommersåk/Riska (approx. 45 min from Sokn). Follow the signs to Li and find parking in the designated residential area/trail start.

6. Bynuten (417 m) – For the mountain goats

Sandnes' highest point gives you the feeling of being on the high mountains, even though you are close to the coast.

  • About the trip: A longer day trip (3-4 hours return) in more demanding terrain with heather and brambles. Here you will get a more wild and untouched nature experience.

  • Suitable for: Experienced hikers who want a longer hike and a good physical challenge.

  • How to get here: Drive towards Lauvvik/Høle on RV13 (approx. 50-55 min from Sokn). There is a separate parking lot at Seldalsheia along the road.

Frode Steine
Next

Sokn Camping: The perfect base for your Stavanger trip