Flor & Fjære: A Botanical Paradise on Sør Hidle in Norway

Flor & Fjære: A Botanical Paradise on Sør Hidle in Norway
Photo: Flor& Fjære/Foto: Anne Valeur

As you venture into the heart of Norway’s enchanting fjord region, you’ll stumble upon a hidden gem transporting you to a world of breathtaking beauty. On the small island of Sør Hidle, within the captivating Stavanger municipality, lies a testament to human ingenuity and nature’s splendour. This is Flor & Fjære, a botanical paradise born from the vision and dedication of Åsmund and Else Marie Bryn, where a once-barren landscape has been transformed into a kaleidoscope of colours, fragrances, and textures. Get ready to immerse yourself in this natural wonder, where the boundaries between human creativity and nature’s beauty blur, and the result is nothing short of enchanting.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sør Hidle’s Transformation: From a windswept and barren island to a botanical paradise, thanks to the vision and dedication of Åsmund and Else Marie Bryn.
  • Flor & Fjære: A Unique Attraction: A one-of-a-kind botanical garden featuring a diverse range of plants and flowers worldwide, carefully selected to thrive in the island’s microclimate.
  • The Bryn Family Legacy: Åsmund and Else Marie Bryn’s commitment to preserving the island’s natural beauty while enhancing it with horticultural diversity has left a lasting legacy on Sør Hidle.
  • Dining at Flor & Fjære: The restaurant offers a menu crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including homegrown herbs and vegetables. There are options for children, vegetarians, and vegans.
  • Visiting Sør Hidle and Flor & Fjære: Take a ferry from Stavanger to experience the natural wonder of Sør Hidle and the botanical brilliance of Flor & Fjære, but be sure to book your visit in advance.

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The Natural Beauty of Sør Hidle

Flor & Fjære: A Botanical Paradise on Sør Hidle in Norway

Before the story of Sør Hidle’s transformation began, the island was a windswept, barren landscape. The stark, naked scenery lacked trees, flowers, and greenery. It was a canvas awaiting the brushstrokes of life to bring colour and vitality to its shores.

Åsmund and Else Marie Bryn: A Vision Realized

In 1965, Åsmund and Else Marie Bryn set foot on this untamed island to create a family cottage in harmony with nature. What began as a modest aspiration soon became a legacy of botanical brilliance. They dedicated themselves to planting trees, flowers, and shrubs, each carefully chosen to thrive in the island’s unique microclimate. Their dedication and passion for horticulture laid the foundation for the exquisite garden of Sør Hidle, today Flor & Fjære.

In the vibrant decades of the 80s and early 90s, the small exotic garden began to flourish and capture the hearts of visitors. As its popularity soared, the need for refreshments became evident. In 1995, Olav and Siri Bryn brought the Flor & Fjære restaurant to life.

A Botanical Paradise on Sør Hidle: Flor & Fjære

Flor & Fjære: A Botanical Paradise on Sør Hidle in Norway
Photo: Flor& Fjære/Foto: Anne Valeur

Sør Hidle is home to a botanical wonderland, Flor & Fjære, a paradise of blooms and a horticultural masterpiece. It’s a place to witness the splendid results of Åsmund and Else Marie Bryn’s labour of love. The park is a unique attraction and probably the only one worldwide.

Today, the capable hands of the third generation, led by Endre Bryn Hidlefjord and his wife, Hanne Kvernberg Hidlefjord, are steering the ship. They have embarked on exciting new plans and expansions, building upon the rich legacy of the garden’s successes.

In Flor & Fjære, visitors are treated to a mesmerising display of flowers, plants, and trees from around the globe. The park showcases diverse species, each thoughtfully selected to thrive in the island’s microclimate. As you wander the garden’s enchanting paths, you’ll encounter a kaleidoscope of colours, fragrances, and textures. The garden is a symphony of life and beauty, from exotic palms and succulents to vibrant perennials and delicate roses.

One of the highlights of Flor & Fjære is the meticulous design of the garden, which seamlessly integrates with the natural surroundings. It’s a living testament to the Bryn family’s commitment to preserving the island’s pristine beauty while enhancing it with the gift of horticultural diversity.

The Bryn Family Legacy

Flor & Fjære: A Botanical Paradise on Sør Hidle in Norway
Photo: Flor& Fjære/Foto: Anne Valeur

Åsmund and Else Marie Bryn’s dedication and vision have left an enduring legacy on Sør Hidle. Their commitment to transforming a once windswept and barren island into a haven of natural beauty inspires all who visit. The Bryn family’s story is a testament to the profound connection between humans and nature, where planting a single tree can blossom into a lush and vibrant garden.

Dining at Flor & Fjære

Flor & Fjære takes pride in offering a delectable menu crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including homegrown herbs and vegetables from the greenhouse. Their commitment to culinary diversity is showcased through their thoughtfully prepared children’s menu and a dedicated selection for vegetarian and vegan guests.

How to Visit Sør Hidle and Flor & Fjære

You can take a ferry from Stavanger to experience the natural wonder of Sør Hidle and the botanical brilliance of Flor & Fjære. This journey is not just a means of transportation; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Norway’s fjords as you make your way to the island. Be sure to check the ferry schedule to plan your visit. Remember to book your stay at Flor & Fjære in advance, as limited places may be available. All visits must be booked in advance.

Conclusion

With these considerations, you’ll find that Flor & Fjære on Sør Hidle is more than just a botanical garden – it’s a testament to the power of human vision and nature’s beauty. As you wander through the vibrant blooms and tranquil paths, you’ll uncover the rich history of a once-barren island transformed into a paradise. Your visit will leave you in awe of the Bryn family’s legacy and inspire you to appreciate the profound connection between humans and nature. So, take the ferry from Stavanger, breathe in the salty air, and let the enchanting world of Sør Hidle and Flor & Fjære leave an indelible mark on your heart.

Go to Flor & Fjerde´s homepage and book a visit

FAQ About Flor & Fjære

What is Flor & Fjære, and where is it located?

Flor & Fjære is a botanical paradise on the small island of Sør Hidle in the Stavanger municipality of Rogaland county, Norway. It’s a unique attraction that showcases a vast collection of flowers, plants, and trees from around the world, carefully selected to thrive in the island’s microclimate.

Who founded Flor & Fjære, and what was their vision?

Flor & Fjære was founded by Åsmund and Else Marie Bryn, who set foot on the windswept and barren island of Sør Hidle in 1965. Their vision was to create a family cottage in harmony with nature, which soon became a legacy of botanical brilliance. They dedicated themselves to planting trees, flowers, and shrubs, laying the foundation for the exquisite garden that Flor & Fjære is today.

What can I expect to see and experience at Flor & Fjære?

At Flor & Fjære, you can expect to see a mesmerizing display of flowers, plants, and trees from around the globe. The park showcases diverse species, each thoughtfully selected to thrive in the island’s microclimate. As you wander the garden’s enchanting paths, you’ll encounter a kaleidoscope of colours, fragrances, and textures. The garden is a symphony of life and beauty, from exotic palms and succulents to vibrant perennials and delicate roses.

Are there dining options available at Flor & Fjære?

Yes, Flor & Fjære takes pride in offering a delectable menu crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including homegrown herbs and vegetables from the greenhouse. They also cater to children, vegetarians, and vegans with thoughtfully prepared menus.

How do I visit Sør Hidle and Flor & Fjære?

You can take a ferry from Stavanger to experience the natural wonder of Sør Hidle and the botanical brilliance of Flor & Fjære. Be sure to check the ferry schedule to plan your visit and book your stay at Flor & Fjære in advance, as limited places may be available. All visits must be booked in advance.

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