Vilnes church on the island of Atløy is a beautiful Medieval church in wood from 1674 and the oldest wooden church in Sunnfjord. It is thought that Vilnes was historically a sacrificial site. Three large menhirs nearby the church may have been used for sacrifices. There is a legend surrounding these menhirs involving a woman called Jorunn in Alden, who planned to get married in Vilnes church. The legend has it that the three trolls - Trond of Alden, Sjur of Atløynipa and Mass of Einingsfjellet - threw large boulders down to crush the church. However, the boulders missed their mark and were left standing in the field to the west of the church. It is a strange sight to see how the position of the three menhirs together with the church actually represents a crucifix. There is also a relatively small stone cross nearby the church in Vilnes. This comes from the stone quarry in Hyllestad.

• Destination

  The Fjord Coast and Sunnfjord

• Country

  Norway

• Type of experience

  Culture

• Best time to visit

  • Winter
  • Spring
  • Autumn
  • Summer

• Nearby stations

  • Førde Airport
  • Florø Airport