Nov. 12, 2024

Norway’s energy capital must be an eye sore, right? Welders shuffling between grimy warehouses, buffeted by gale-force winds, with a backdrop of cranes and rigs? Surprises are one of the great gifts that incentive travel gives, and Stavanger is an absolute treat.

Close encounters of the fjord kind

One of the most recognisable and widely shared images of Norway, Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen), is part of the Stavanger region. It is a stunning rock formation looming over a vast fjord. It attracts visitors to stand on its table-like top and gaze over the sheer cliffs to the fjord and the distant ocean. The fjord can be accessed on a thrilling RIB ride as part of an incentive event. Regarding scenery, Stavanger is A-list Norway in the fjords and the local mountains.

Surf’s up

Beautiful nature extends to the islands just outside Stavanger harbour and south to the golden beaches of the west coast. This pristine coastline is home to many activities, including cycling the coast trail and participating in wind sports such as kite, wind, and foil surfing. It is also Norway’s wave surfing capital. Surf’s up just south of the energy capital of Europe!

Mural of woman on wall in stavanger

From full colour to none

Stavanger is also Norway's street art capital. The city centre is a treasure trove of public art. Resident Banksy’s have created a living gallery throughout the central streets. Buzzing bars are adorned with artwork and colours on (the aptly named) Colour Street. The Old Town of Stavanger is where you won't find street art or colour. Located on the southern edge of the harbour, this resolutely colourless neighbourhood is pure charm. Immaculate, white wooden houses line cobblestone pedestrian streets – Instagram-central!

The pivot

So, where are all the rigs and greasy overalls? Europe's energy capital isn’t visible from central Stavanger, except for a distant dockyard and some corporate offices inland of the city centre. In fact, the city that helped create Norway’s deep pockets is fast pivoting toward new energy. High-tech green firms are located south of the city, while the hum of electric ferries around the harbour illustrates the transition that is taking place.

Those expecting to find Norway’s energy industry in Stavanger will be shocked. It is a superb incentive travel destination, with an airport on its doorstep, amazing activities, quality hotels, and a buzzing city centre and harbour front. There is an oil museum for those fascinated by black gold.

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Norway incentive travelStavanger incentive travelincentive travelsustainable events