On tour Norway recommends: Top 5 Hiking tips on Askøy

Askøy, just a quarter of an hour from Bergen, offers an impressive selection of beautiful hikes with views over fjord, mountains, and sea.

Here you will find both family-friendly short hikes and longer routes that provide real hiking experiences in the coastal landscape. The island stretches from green forest areas in the south to the open nature reserve at Herdla in the north. Below you will find our five best recommendations for you who are planning   Hiking tips on Askøy, whether you want a quick afternoon hike or a full-day walk.

1. Askøy along (35.9 km) – the classic across the whole island

Askøy along is an iconic long hike that is organized every year in May, but you can also walk it on your own. The hike goes from Kleppestø in the south to Herdla in the north and covers the entire island – a total of 35.9 km. It can be divided into four stages for those who wish to take it over several days. Along the route, you walk on paths equipped with long wooden bridges. Varied terrain with marsh, forest paths, and viewpoints with panoramic views.

Read more about the hike Askøy along

2. Kolbeinsvarden (231 m) from Bergheim – Askøy's highest peak

Kolbeinsvarden is Askøy's highest point and one of the island's most popular hiking destinations. From Bergheim, you follow the path marked 'Askøy along'. It goes through the forest and over wooden bridges, further past Kvilebuen and up towards Langafjellstjørna. The path is well-prepared, and the wooden bridges make it accessible year-round. At the top stands the cairn and a small cabin where you can seek shelter. The view is vast – you can see both Bergen, Sotra, and Herdla in clear weather.

Read more about the hike to Kolbeinsvarden

3. The Queen (190 m) from Ravnanger

Askøy's second most visited peak. From Ravnanger center, you follow a paved road before it turns into a forest road and path. It is easy to find your way – the path is good, and at one point there is a rope for safety. Once at the top of The Queen, you get a view towards Hjeltefjorden, Sotra, and Herdla. At the top, there is also a shelter where you can seek refuge from the rain.

Learn more about the trip to Dronningen

4. Hiking tour around Herdla - nature, birdlife and war history

Far north on Askøy you will find Herdla - a nature reserve with rich bird life, historical cultural monuments, and beautiful coastal nature. The tour around the island is easy to walk and suitable for all ages. Here you can explore the remains of German forts from World War II, visit the Herdla museum, and enjoy sandy beaches and rocky shores out towards the sea. There are also marked trails and viewpoints along the entire route. Allow 2-3 hours at a leisurely pace.

Learn more about the hiking tour on Herdla

5. Folleseåsen (166 m) - short and with panoramic views

A quick and popular trip on southern Askøy with great views over both Sotra and the Askøy Bridge. From the parking lot, follow the paved road to the left, then a path up into open terrain. The trip is short and in some places there is a bit of easy climbing. At the top, there is a bench, a fire pit, and panoramic views towards Hanøytangen. Return the same way!

Learn more about the trip to Folleseåsen

These are five of the best hiking tips on Askøy - from fjord-close viewpoints to coastal walks and long hikes across the entire island. Whether you are looking for short or longer hikes on Askøy, the island offers varied terrain.