Nature experiences near Sandnessjøen
Maylinn Løfsnes Storjord
When you arrive in Sandnessjøen from the north, you’ll immediately understand why the town is known as the gateway to the Helgeland coast.
As you approach the Helgelands Bridge, the coastline unfolds before you—with the impressive peaks of The Seven Sisters and Dønnamannen greeting you as you cross what many call Norway’s most beautiful bridge. From Sandnessjøen, the opportunities for coastal nature experiences are endless.
Explore the fairytale mountains around Sandnessjøen
Helgeland is renowned for its magical and majestic mountain formations. Near Sandnessjøen, you’ll find one of Norway’s most sought-after hiking destinations: the legendary Seven Sisters range. If you’re up for a challenge, it’s possible to summit all the peaks in a single day. For a less strenuous walk that still offers superb views, the neighbouring Vetfjellet is a great option—providing height and scenery with less effort.
Starting from Sandnessjøen, you can plan day trips to several of these iconic peaks. Dønnamannen reflects beautifully across Alstenfjorden, and other standout hikes like Lovundfjellet, Vegatrappa, Ravnfloget, Tomskjevelen, and Rødøyløva can all be tackled as day trips from Sandnessjøen. Many local tour operators also offer transport and guided hikes to the most famous summits in the region.
Island hopping with Sandnessjøen as your base
During the summer season, it’s easy to take day trips from Sandnessjøen out to the outer reaches of the Helgeland coast—from Vega in the south to Støtt in the north—using the summer route of the express boat. Popular destinations like the puffin island Lovund, the mystical Træna, and the whisky island Myken are also within reach as day trips.
The boat ride alone is worth the journey, taking you past charming island communities and offering close-up views of the legendary mountains of Helgeland. Several local operators also offer tailor-made experiences by charter boat, fishing boat, or RIB directly from the dock in Sandnessjøen.
Cycling and kayaking paradise: Herøy and Dønna
The island realm just off the coast from Sandnessjøen—especially around Herøy—is a paradise for paddlers. Thousands of small and large islands shield you from wind and waves, allowing you to glide undisturbed across crystal-clear waters. With sea eagles overhead and rich wildlife all around, this is paddling at its best. If you’re up for a challenge, join a longer kayak trip from Alstahaug to the UNESCO World Heritage area around Vega.
If you prefer dry land, hop on a bike and ride from Herøy to Dønna. This is one of the most popular cycling routes in the area. Offering stunning surroundings and what might be the best view of the Seven Sisters anywhere on Helgeland. Small bridges connect the islands, and chalk-white sandy coves around every corner make it hard to resist a refreshing swim.
Sandnessjøen is also a great starting point for cycling adventures on Vega and the Nesna islands. Leaving the car behind and bringing your bike on the boat is not only more relaxing—it brings you closer to nature and makes every experience even more powerful from the bike saddle.
Short Trip to the Mountain Realm
Just a short drive across the Helgeland Bridge lies the neighbouring municipality of Leirfjord, stretching from the coast into the inland. Here, you can visit one of Norway’s most beautiful hydropower plants in Forslandsdalen—a scenic walk that combines nature with striking architecture.
Leirfjord also offers a number of hikes suitable all year round, with or without skis. You’ll find untouched nature and excellent areas for both hunting and fishing. In both Leirfjord and Sandnessjøen, you can try your luck at salmon and trout fishing in the Leirelva and Hertenelva rivers near the Seven Sisters. For sea fishing, there are good and varied spots almost everywhere—often all you need is a smooth rock and a fishing rod.
If you’d like to head out to sea, you’ll find boat rentals available in several places. Offersøy near Sandnessjøen, Kvitneset in Leirfjord, and Vandve off the coast of Dønna are all great options. If piloting your own boat feels a bit daunting, you can also reach the mountain realm by ferry or express boat.
