Western Norway

Western Norway (Vestlandet) is a region located in the western part of Norway. It consists of four counties: Rogaland, Vestland, Møre og Romsdal, and Agder. The region is known for its breathtaking fjords, mountains, and coastal landscapes.

Geography

Western Norway is characterized by its rugged terrain, with numerous fjords such as the Hardangerfjord, Sognefjord, and Geirangerfjord. The region is also home to many of Norway's highest mountains, including Galdhøpiggen and Glittertind. The coastline of Western Norway is dotted with thousands of islands, the largest of which is Hareidlandet in Møre og Romsdal county.

Economy

The economy of Western Norway is diverse, with key industries including oil and gas, fishing, aquaculture, shipping, and tourism. The region is home to Stavanger, Norway's oil capital, and Bergen, the country's second-largest city and a major international centre for aquaculture and shipping.

Culture

Western Norway has a rich cultural heritage, with traditions such as the bunad (traditional Norwegian dress) and fjord horse breeding. The region is also known for its distinctive wooden stave churches, such as the Urnes Stave Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Education

The region boasts several higher education institutions, including the University of Bergen, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, and University of Stavanger. These institutions offer a wide range of programs and contribute significantly to research and development in the region.

Transportation

Transportation in Western Norway is facilitated by a network of roads, railways, airports, and ferry services. Key transport hubs include Bergen Airport, Flesland, Stavanger Airport, Sola, and the Bergen Line railway.