Why live in Bokn?

Bokn is a small yet strategically located municipality in Rogaland, home to around 900 residents. Positioned along the E39 on the Haugesund side of the fjord, it offers a unique blend of tranquillity, community, and connectivity. Bokn is closely tied to the Haugalandet region while still providing convenient access to Stavanger. Haugesund city centre is only a 30-minute drive away, and when the Rogfast tunnel is completed in 2033, Bokn will also be just a 30-minute drive from Stavanger.

The Rogfast tunnel will be the world’s longest and deepest undersea road tunnel, connecting Rogaland’s northern and southern parts via an efficient, direct route. This transformative infrastructure will bring Bokn closer to Stavanger, enhancing its appeal for commuters and businesses while maintaining its serene environment. Bokn’s commitment to quality of life, combined with stunning coastal scenery and robust local services, makes it an ideal place to live and work.

Living in Bokn

Living in Bokn is about embracing a peaceful lifestyle enriched by a close-knit community and natural beauty. Families thrive here thanks to a safe environment, reliable educational facilities, and an array of cultural and recreational opportunities. Bokn’s primary and lower secondary school ensures easy access to education while community activities at the local community centre, samfunnshus, bring residents together for concerts, sports, and seasonal events.

Nature is an integral part of life in Bokn. The coastline offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming, while marked trails like the hike to Boknafjellet reward walkers with panoramic views of the fjord and sea. Residents can also explore hidden gems like Trosnavåg or spend a day discovering the municipality’s numerous islands and inlets.

The municipality consists of three islands—Ognøy, Austre Bokn, and Vestre Bokn— connected by bridges to the mainland at Tysvær. This accessibility enhances Bokn’s appeal as a residential area with strong ties to the Haugesund region.

Future development: Nyholmen and Føresvik expansion

Bokn is undergoing exciting development with the transformation of Føresvik and the creation of Nyholmen. Using materials from the Rogfast tunnel project, Føresvik plans to triple its land area, including a new island connected via two bridges. This sustainable expansion will create a vibrant town centre featuring residential areas, businesses, and public spaces such as a marina, beach, and park areas, along with pedestrian-friendly streets and cycling paths.

Places to live in Bokn

Activities in Bokn

Bokn is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and community engagement. Hiking opportunities abound, with Boknafjellet as a standout destination. The coastline provides endless possibilities for water sports, fishing, and family picnics by the sea.

Key attractions include:

• Boknafjellet: At 293 metres above sea level, this is the highest point between Siggjo on Bømlo and Synesvarden on Jæren. It offers panoramic views over Rogaland and Vestland on clear days. There is also an accessible viewpoint for the visually impaired.
• Klepp Festningsanlegg: The remnants of a German World War II fortification on Vestre Bokn’s southwest tip. Visitors can enjoy hiking through unique landscapes while learning about the area’s wartime history.
• Kongsbu Day Trip Cabin: Located in the open coastal landscape, Kongsbu provides a perfect spot for a day hike with stunning views of Boknasundet and Tysvær.
• Bokn Bygdemuseum: Housed in the old youth hall on Vestre Bokn, this museum offers insights into life on Bokn from 1850 to 1900.
• Robåt Rental: Explore Bokn from the sea in the summer by borrowing a free rowboat in Føresvik.
• Ancient Monuments: Bokn’s history is evident in its numerous standing stones, burial mounds, and Bronze Age artefacts.

Local sports teams and clubs, such as Bokn IL, host events and activities that bring residents together. Seasonal festivals and cultural events at the samfunnshus highlight the municipality’s rich traditions, while the library and local organisations offer spaces for learning and connection.

For more information on activities and events in Bokn, visit the Bokn Community Facebook Group

Local amenities

Føresvik, the administrative centre, is home to a small grocery store, and other services catering to residents. Local producers supply fresh seafood and other goods, reflecting the municipality’s coastal character. Bokn’s proximity to Haugesund and the surrounding area ensures access to additional dining and shopping options.

Study in Bokn

Bokn provides educational opportunities tailored to the needs of its community:

• Kindergarten: Bokn Kindergarten offers care and support for young children in a local setting.
• Primary and Lower Secondary School: Bokn School provides education for children through the lower secondary level.
• Upper Secondary Schools: Students have access to upper secondary schools in Haugalandet, offering a range of academic and vocational programmes.
• Higher Education: Haugesund’s Western Norway University of Applied Sciences is within commuting distance, providing opportunities for further education in areas such as engineering, business, and maritime studies.

Work in Bokn

Bokn’s economy is rooted in its maritime and agricultural traditions, with thriving industries in fish farming and small-scale farming. Grieg Seafood plays a crucial role in the local economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing significantly to the municipality’s financial stability. The company’s aquaculture operations in Bokn produce 6,000 tonnes of salmon annually, and its smolt production facility in Trosnavåg is a key part of its regional operations. Grieg Seafood also supports the community through sponsorships and by offering summer jobs to local youth.

For entrepreneurs, Bokn offers support and available space for business development along key transport routes. While fish farming remains a dominant industry, the municipality is working to attract a broader range of businesses to create a more diverse economy. Bokn’s proximity to Haugesund allows integration with the wider Haugalandet region’s job market, while Stavanger offers further opportunities in energy, technology, and public services.

A connected and serene community

Bokn’s strategic location along the E39 ensures excellent transport links, including future enhancements through the Rogfast project. High-speed internet and well-maintained infrastructure make it a modern and connected place to live, while the municipality’s natural beauty and strong community spirit ensure a fulfilling lifestyle. Whether raising a family, starting a business, or seeking a serene retreat, Bokn offers a unique blend of opportunity and tranquillity.

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