At Solværøyan Birds and Beds, you’ll find unique accommodations and rare nature experiences in one of the Helgeland coast’s finest birdwatching paradises. Sleneset is part of the Solvær archipelago.

Solværøyan Birds & Beds offers accommodation in places off the beaten path. In homelike houses surrounded by nature, peace and the simple life await. Birds & Beds offers two accommodation options, “Smia” and “Hubroheimen”, both beautifully located in the paddling and bird-watching paradise of the Solvær Islands, with Sleneset as the main island – right in the heart of the Helgeland coast. Birds & Beds also offers kayak rentals.

Smia

“Smia” is a charming old log cabin with space for four people divided between two bedrooms. The cabin is located on Lunderøya, a short boat ride from Sleneset. Boat transport to and from Sleneset is included in the rental unless you arrive with your own boat.

The hosts are fishermen and have their own fishing boat at the dock where they live on Lunderøya. Aside from them, there are only a few other cabins scattered across the island, which is about 3 km long and 1 km wide at its widest.

When you step outside the door of “Smia”, you are right in the middle of nature. There is plenty of space to walk, explore and experience the beautiful coastal landscape at your own pace. You can pick berries, watch birdlife, paddle a kayak, swim under the midnight sun, or simply sit indoors and enjoy the beautiful views in all directions.

Hubroheimen

Getting to “Hubroheimen” from the village of Sleneset is a nature experience in itself. Hubroheimen is located on Ulvøya, which is connected to Sleneset by a suspension bridge. From the arrival pier, the walk takes about an hour in total. The walk begins where most people live before you are led onto a simple marked trail through a beautiful birch forest, leading to the cozy little smallholding. It’s not a long hike, but it can be a bit demanding if you have a lot of luggage. We recommend packing what you need in a backpack rather than a suitcase. The hosts can also provide boat transport to the little farm on request.

“Hubroheimen” sleeps six people across three bedrooms and one annex. There is electricity, a dishwasher, and a shower supplied by rainwater collection, an outhouse, but no internet. Mobile coverage is good, so don’t worry—though this is truly a place for those wishing to disconnect rather than reconnect.

Outside the door and in the barn, you’ll meet two free-roaming rabbits, coastal goats, chickens, and carrier pigeons, which guests are welcome to help care for. The hosts provide guidance for the simple and enjoyable daily chores. The close contact with the animals brings a special sense of peace to the stay.

Hubroheimen is the only settlement on Ulvøya and offers many lovely hiking trails. The rich birdlife combined with the beautiful and ever-changing coastal light makes the location particularly well suited for photographers and bird-watchers.

Guided bird safari

Solværøyan Birds & Beds also offers guided bird safaris by boat in autumn, spring, and winter. The host Lena is a bird-watcher herself and has registered over 50 different species in the Solværøyene archipelago. The area is especially known for having the densest eagle-owl population in Europe. For bird-watchers and photographers hoping to see the legendary owl, which is considered nationally endangered, chances are good—especially from a boat.

The eagle owl’s nesting period is long, and to protect it during its most vulnerable time, no guiding is offered between June 1st and August 10th.

Travel Trade: Technical Sheet

Techincal sheet for Solværøyan Birds and Beds – acommodation, activity

Solværøyan Birds & Beds welcomes guests year-round. Each season has its charm, but autumn and winter weather can be challenging, which may occasionally limit boat tours.

Sleneset is part of the Solvær islands, located between Lurøy and Lovund, west of Mo i Rana. You can reach it by ferry or express boat from Stokkvågen or by private boat.

See Sleneset in Google Maps
Read more about Sleneset and how to get there

Thank you for respecting the local communities, and for helping us preserve the natural beauty of Helgeland!

Please:

  • Strive to leave no trace of your visit. Bring back all your rubbish, including used toilet paper, and discard it in the nearest rubbish bin.
  • Plan your toilet visits and use the opportunity when you pass a toilet. In the wilderness, make sure you are not a nuisance to others.
  • Respect the local wildlife. Keep a good distance from wildlife, livestock and birds. Keep your dog leashed.
  • Respect private property. Keep a respectful distance from houses and cabins.
  • Show good boating sense. Keep a good distance from shore and drive at a low speed, especially when you are close to anyone or anything on the water, including birds or animals. Avoid loud and disturbing engine noise. Be aware that some islands and nature reserves are important nesting sites, and that going ashore is prohibited during the nesting season.
  • Follow the Norwegian Mountain Code (Fjellvettreglene). Plan your excursion according to the weather forecast, your skills and experience.
  • Join a guided excursion or consider hiring an experienced guide, especially when you don’t have sufficient experience or knowledge to guarantee a safe trip.

Lurøy

The two islands Lurøy and Onøy are lovely travel destinations for both relaxing and active days in the summer vacation. And just a short boat ride away, you’ll find beautiful hiking and travel destinations like Aldersundet, Kvarøy, and the Solvær Islands.

Mer om Lurøy

Explore the area