Discover Mosterøy: Landscapes, views and pilgrimage sites

A landscape shaped by farming, fishing and heathland

Mosterøy is part of a beautiful and fertile farming and fishing landscape with a long history. This landscape also includes Rennesøy, Klosterøy and Fjøløy. On the ridges of Rennesøy and at Mastravarden on Mosterøy, there are larger areas of cultural pasture and woodland plots; in places, these form continuous stretches of heathland. Different types of landscape therefore sit side by side on Mosterøy, from cultivated pasture to open heathland.

Mastravarden is a distinctive landmark: at 154 metres, it is the highest peak on Mosterøy. From the summit, the view extends through 360 degrees. Those interested in ridges and wide-ranging views will find it a specific point of reference when planning a trip. Utstein Pilegrimsgard is within walking distance of Mastravarden, so both places can be considered as separate destinations when planning, rather than combined into a single visitor offering.

Exploring Mosterøy and heading towards Fjøløy

A combined walking and cycling path runs across Mosterøy. It offers another way to make your stay active; both cycling and walking are therefore among the experiences described on the island. There is only one road from Mosterøy to Fjøløy and Utstein. A sightseeing drive starts on Mosterøy and crosses the island towards Fjøløy and the Fjøløy Lighthouse. These details describe different ways to explore: a route for pedestrians and cyclists, and a drive that begins on Mosterøy.

Finnesand is another possible stop to include in an active trip plan: this place on Mosterøy serves as a starting point and base for kayak rental. When choosing your accommodation, you can consider whether to focus more on landscapes and views, the combined walking and cycling path, or the kayak offering. These are interests to consider when planning a trip, not features or amenities of any particular holiday rental.

Pilgrimage history and cultural sites

Utstein Pilegrimsgard on Mosterøy is a centre for retreats, pilgrimages, spiritual exploration and quiet days. The place is inspired by Celtic spirituality; the regular prayers and liturgies held there are shaped by Celtic tradition. Alongside the landscape experiences, this provides a spiritual focus that may be important when choosing the themes of your trip. Mosterøy Church in Askje is listed as an object worthy of protection.

Nearby, on Klosterøy, the island directly adjacent to Mosterøy, lies Utstein Abbey. It is Norway’s only surviving medieval monastery. On Fjøløy, a different historical connection is tied to the landscape: Fjøløy Fort was established in 1941 and became the main fort of the Norwegian naval forces in Rogaland after the Second World War. These places represent different historical and cultural themes; when planning your trip, consider each in relation to its own location and history.

Fjøløy’s natural environment and choosing a holiday focus

The 270-decare recreation area on Fjøløy includes coastal heathland, natural pasture and rocky coastal terrain. If you would like to include this landscape in a trip that also takes in Mosterøy, you can consider it as a distinct natural area.

Mosterøy is connected to the mainland via Rennfast on the E39. When looking for a holiday rental or holiday home, you can first decide which themes you would like your stay to centre on: the landscape on Mosterøy, the summit views from Mastravarden, pilgrimage sites, cycling, or excursions towards Fjøløy and Utstein. If you are planning a trip with children, your family’s shared interests can help guide your choice. The different places offer different points of interest; accommodation itself should be assessed separately.

If you would like to discover more places, you can also read about Østhusvik, Bru and Rennesøy.

Back to the main travel overview: Rennesøy.