The world's longest sofa

To the east we see the Sykkylvsfjorden, which is a side arm of the mighty Storfjorden. Here we find Sykkylven, which is also known as Norway's furniture capital. Once there were 30 active furniture factories here with only 3,000 permanent residents. Today there are a few more, and Sykkylven has developed into a modern town, but the furniture industry still characterizes both identity and business. Among the best-known manufacturers are Ekornes, Hjellegjerde and Brunstad. Ekornes, with headquarters in Sykkylven, is particularly known for the brands Stressless and Svane. At a time when many have moved production to low-cost countries, Ekornes has kept parts of its production local - and thus continues a strong craft tradition. The furniture village has also left its mark internationally. In 2009, Sykkylven set a world record with the world's longest sofa, a full 890.25 meters long – built by the local furniture industry and set up as a spectacular symbol of the village's expertise and pride. Further along the fjord we pass Straumgjerde and the road that leads over Strandafjellet, towards Stranda and on to Hellesylt – the gateway to the Geirangerfjord.