Førde is a small but significant town in Sunnfjord municipality, Vestland county, Norway. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, it offers an ideal mix of natural beauty, modern amenities, and cultural richness. The town is situated along the Førdefjord, a long and narrow inlet that extends 36 kilometers inland from the North Sea. This fjord is framed by steep cliffs and lush forests, providing a dramatic setting for outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and sightseeing. The natural environment around Førde includes not only fjords but also several prominent mountains, including Hafstadfjellet, which rises to 1,286 meters above sea level. This mountain is a favorite among hikers, offering well-marked trails that reward adventurers with spectacular views of the town, fjord, and the wider wilderness. Other notable peaks such as Langelandshornet and Hornnesfjellet are also nearby, each offering unique hiking opportunities and stunning vistas.

Water is a defining feature of Førde's landscape. The Jølstra River flows through the town, originating from Lake Jølstravatnet, one of the largest and most scenic lakes in Western Norway. The Jølstra River is renowned for its salmon fishing, drawing anglers from all over the world during the fishing season. The lake is a popular destination for water-based activities, including boating, kayaking, and swimming, especially during the summer months. In winter, the lake and its surroundings become a serene snowy landscape, perfect for ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The area around Førde is home to dense, lush forests with trails leading through birch and pine woods, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. One of the standout natural attractions near Førde is Likholefossen, a dramatic waterfall on the Gaula River. Visitors can cross a suspension bridge spanning the falls, offering a thrilling, close-up view of the roaring water below.

The town experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild winters and cool summers, typical of Western Norway. Heavy rainfall, especially in autumn, keeps the rivers and waterfalls full, ensuring the landscape remains green and vibrant throughout the year. Snowfall is common in the winter, transforming Førde into a winter sports destination with ample opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing.

Førde is also known for its vibrant cultural life, most famously the Førde International Folk Music Festival (Førdefestivalen), which has been held annually in early July since 1990. The festival is the largest of its kind in Scandinavia, attracting musicians and performers from over 30 countries. It showcases a wide range of traditional and contemporary folk music, creating a cultural melting pot. Concerts are held in various venues throughout the town, from outdoor stages to cultural centers, and the festival's inclusive atmosphere encourages participation from professional musicians and amateurs alike. In addition to music, the festival includes folk dance performances, arts and crafts exhibitions, and food fairs featuring local and international cuisine. The arts scene in Førde is further enriched by the Sunnfjord Museum, an open-air museum that showcases traditional Norwegian farmhouses and barns from the 16th century. Visitors can explore the historical buildings and learn about rural life in Western Norway in past centuries. The museum also hosts craft workshops, storytelling sessions, and historical reenactments.

Despite its small size, Førde has a robust economy that serves as the regional hub for Sunnfjord. Historically rooted in agriculture, particularly dairy farming, sheep herding, and crop cultivation, the town has diversified its economic base in recent years. Agriculture still plays a role, but industries like hydropower production have become increasingly important, with several plants harnessing the power of the Jølstra River to provide renewable energy. Førde Central Hospital is another key institution, serving as the main healthcare provider for the region and offering specialized services in areas such as surgery, maternity, and emergency care. The hospital is also involved in medical research and education, with strong ties to the University of Bergen.

Førde’s educational system plays an important role in the region, attracting students from the surrounding rural areas. The town offers elementary, secondary, and vocational training, making it a vital center for education in Sunnfjord. In terms of transportation, Førde is well-connected by the E39 highway, which links it to major cities like Bergen and Ålesund. The town is also serviced by Førde Airport, Bringeland, offering flights primarily to Oslo, ensuring that Førde remains accessible to both domestic and international travelers.