Vassøy: Nature, Swimming Spots and Traces of History

Vassøy brings together nature, water and traces of earlier human activity. Along Vassøyturen, the sights include an artificially dammed pond, an old schoolhouse and evidence of an Iron Age settlement. A swimming cove, beach and volleyball court offer a different focus. You can plan your trip around whether you want to explore the route and its nature and history, or spend time by the water and enjoy some activity.

Torvmyrå and the Vassøyturen route

Torvmyrå is a fishless, artificially dammed pond with many aquatic plants. It plays an important role for local flora and fauna. Vassøyturen includes a loop around the pond, making Torvmyrå a natural focal point for visitors interested in nature. It is not just the water that makes this place special: the plant life and the pond’s importance to local wildlife and vegetation also shape its character. If you enjoy combining your outings with a nature theme, this route offers a clear point of interest.

Schoolhouse and settlement traces

Vassøyturen passes an old schoolhouse dating from 1902. The route also features traces of an Iron Age settlement. The same walk therefore brings together evidence from different periods: the schoolhouse as a testament to the more recent past and the settlement traces as a glimpse into a much earlier era. For families, this can add observations of nature and conversations about past ways of life to a walk, without requiring a separate museum visit. Those interested in history can focus on these points; those who mainly want to spend time outdoors can encounter them as part of Vassøyturen.

Swimming spot, beach and activities

Peisaren is a swimming cove along Vassøyturen, inviting you to take a break and perhaps go for a swim. The swimming spot is easy to reach with a stroller. The beach on Vassøy offers another opportunity to enjoy the water, while a volleyball court provides an active alternative. A suspension bridge leads to a small islet, making it another special spot to discover. These options suit different interests: you can focus on a break at the swimming cove, include the beach or get active at the volleyball court.

Getting there and choosing a holiday apartment

Vassøy is accessible by scheduled boat from Bakerbrygga. A fast boat runs from Fiskepiren in central Stavanger; Vassøy also has a car ferry connection. This gives you several ways to plan your journey: scheduled boat, fast boat or car ferry. You can consider which option suits your trip when choosing your accommodation. A holiday apartment on Vassøy is an option to look for if you want to combine your stay with experiences on the island; whether you focus on Vassøyturen, the swimming spots or both is up to you.

More destinations: Sauda, Sola, Oanes, Utsira, Randaberg, Bokn.

Back to the regional travel overview: Rogaland.