Leirvik

Leirvik is a small town on Stord Island, connected to the Norwegian mainland by the Trekantsambandet road system. The port is compact, and the town sits against a backdrop of rolling green hills and the waters of the Hardangerfjord. There isn't a lot of tourist infrastructure here, which is part of the appeal. The waterfront is quiet, and the town centre is walkable in under 20 minutes. Stord has hiking trails through open moorland and along the coastline, with views across to the surrounding islands. The Sunnhordland Museum covers local history and traditional building techniques. A ferry from Leirvik runs to Kvinnherad on the mainland side of the fjord. The Hardangerfjord region is known for apple orchards and cider production. Norwegian krone is the currency, and prices are high. English is spoken widely. Bring layers since the weather shifts quickly.