Vedde and Fiskarstrand
0
To the south, we now see Vedde and Fiskarstrand – two places with deep roots in Norway’s fishing heritage. At Vedde stands the well-known herring oil factory, and if the wind is blowing in the right direction, you might notice its unmistakable scent. The strong smell of boiled herring oil is part of the coastal identity here. While many wrinkle their noses at it, for others it's the smell of memories – of hard work, tradition, and the sea. Herring has played a vital role in the history of this region. During the great herring booms of the 19th and 20th centuries, entire communities along the coast were built around the seasonal herring fisheries. Boats lined the fjords, barrels were packed for export, and the sound of activity never stopped. The oil extracted from the herring was used for everything from animal feed to industrial products – and remains an important commodity to this day. This stretch of coastline tells the story of survival, adaptability, and a deep connection to the ocean. Even today, the smell of herring oil reminds locals of where they come from – and how the sea continues to shape life here.