Why live in Hjelmeland?

Hjelmeland is a municipality in Rogaland County, situated in the Ryfylke region. Known for its vibrant agricultural heritage, beautiful fjord landscapes, and engaging community, Hjelmeland offers a tranquil yet dynamic environment. With approximately 2,700 residents, the municipality provides a safe and welcoming place to live, with a strong focus on sustainability and local traditions.

Living in Hjelmeland

Hjelmeland combines peaceful living with access to essential services. The village of Hjelmelandsvågen serves as the administrative and cultural centre, providing schools, shops, healthcare, and recreational opportunities. Smaller villages and rural areas offer a slower pace of life, surrounded by scenic landscapes.

Housing options include family homes in villages, waterfront properties, and cabins in more secluded areas. Residents enjoy a strong community spirit, enhanced by local festivals, cultural events, and opportunities to engage with nature.

Places to live in Hjelmeland

Activities in Hjelmeland

Hjelmeland is a treasure trove of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts, history lovers, and families alike. The municipality’s network of scenic hikes includes trails for all levels, from the family-friendly paths at Jøsneset to the more challenging ascent of Melands Grønahei, a hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views over fjords and mountains. For those who prefer shorter excursions, the trail to Hjelmen offers a spectacular vantage point and a glimpse into the area’s natural beauty.

Cultural activities are an integral part of life in Hjelmeland. The Vigatunet Open-Air Museum invites visitors to step back in time, exploring well-preserved traditional farm buildings and learning about local history. The Årdal Old Church, dating back to the 1600s, stands as a testament to the region’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

Water enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, fishing, or a leisurely day at the Sandangervågen Recreation Area, which offers picnic facilities and a swimming beach. In Helgøy, visitors can tour the island’s renowned fruit orchards, which come alive with seasonal activities such as fruit picking. For a relaxing outing, a stroll over the Høsebrua pedestrian bridge near Sandsfossen waterfall provides an opportunity to marvel at the natural beauty of the region.

Hjelmeland also hosts a range of community events, including the popular Hjelmeland Apple Festival, which celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage with local food, crafts, and music. Whether you are drawn to outdoor activities, cultural exploration, or community celebrations, Hjelmeland has something to offer year-round.

Local food

Hjelmeland is a hub for high-quality local food production, reflecting its agricultural strengths:

• Tveitane Gard: Known for strawberries, syrups, and traditional jams.
• Kleppa Gard & Glamping: Producers of apple juice and hosts of glamping experiences.
• Smaken av Ryfylke: A restaurant and catering service featuring local ingredients.
• Epleriet: Specialising in jams and dried fruit.
• Grønvik Gard: Renowned for award-winning apple juice and marmalades.
• Buhagen: Offering cider and cured meats.
• Ryfylke Gardsysteri: Makers of artisanal cheeses and milk-based products.
• Sie Gard: Providers of lamb, berries, and fruit.
• Helgøyfrukt: Fresh seasonal fruit and apple juice from the island of Helgøy.
• Eiane Gard: Producers of cider and honey.
• Apal Sideri: Award-winning cider crafted from local apples.
• Uragarden: Specialising in grass-fed meat.

These producers highlight Hjelmeland’s dedication to sustainable and locally sourced food.

Study in Hjelmeland

Hjelmeland offers a range of educational opportunities for children and families:

• Kindergartens:
  • Hjelmeland Barnehage
  • Fister Barnehage
  • Årdal Barnehage
• Primary and secondary schools:
  • Hjelmeland Skule (Primary)
  • Årdal Skule (Primary)
  • Hjelmeland Ungdomsskule (Lower secondary)

These institutions provide high-quality education with dedicated staff and modern facilities, ensuring a strong foundation for learning.

Higher education

• Decentralised education in Ryfylke
  Ryfylke provides decentralised higher education opportunities through partnerships with regional and national educational institutions. These programmes are designed to make higher education more accessible to residents in the region. Courses offered range from professional certifications to university-level studies in fields such as teaching, healthcare, and business administration. Flexible and hybrid formats, including online and local sessions, allow students to pursue education while staying rooted in their communities.

Work in Hjelmeland

Hjelmeland’s economy is driven by aquaculture, agriculture, renewable energy, and tourism. Key employers include:

MOWI
A leading company in aquaculture, operating a salmon processing facility that provides significant employment in the region.

Tytlandsvik Aqua and Årdal Aqua
These innovative aquaculture facilities specialise in smolt production and land-based fish farming, contributing to sustainable food production. Together, they offer job opportunities in fish health management, biology, technology, and technical operations.

NorStone
A major player in sand and stone quarrying, offering jobs in extraction, processing, and logistics.

Ulla-Førre Hydropower Plant
One of Europe’s largest hydropower facilities, providing clean energy and jobs in engineering, maintenance, and operations.

Hjelmeland Municipality
The municipality employs residents in roles across administration, education, healthcare, and public services.