Sola is a gateway to the Stavanger Peninsula, a picturesque corner of Norway with sandy beaches, historic villages and fascinating World War II sites. The municipality is a stone’s throw from Stavanger but has a local and laid-back vibe that feels worlds away from the buzz of the city.
Things to do in Sola
The small but lively village of Solakrossen is an ideal base for exploring Sola. Solastranden stretches for more than two kilometres along the coast and is one of the most beautiful beaches in Norway. Sunseekers flock to bask on the sand and swim in the cool, clear water of the North Sea. On windy days, Solastranden offers excellent conditions for wind and kite surfing. Stroll down to the southern end of the beach to check out the old war structures that dot the sand.
Located next to the airport, Flyhistorisk Museum Sola charts the fascinating history of aviation on the Stavanger Peninsula. The museum occupies a World War II hangar and features more than 30 full-size planes and helicopters, including warbirds like a Messerschmitt Bf 109 and Consolidated PBY5A Catalina. There’s also a restored Heinkel HE 115 German seaplane that was shot down during World War II and later recovered from the depths of Hafrsfjord.
The small town of Tananger is built around a picturesque harbour lined with historic wooden houses. Stroll along the waterfront and visit the Coastal Heritage Museum to find out more about the unique history of the town. Down by the quay, you can purchase fresh-caught fish and shrimp from local fishermen.
Getting around Sola
Rental cars are an easy and flexible way to explore Sola at your own pace, while towns like Solakrossen and Tananger are compact and easy to get around on foot. Stavanger Airport is a five-minute drive from Solakrossen. The drive between Stavanger and Solakrossen is around 15 minutes.