“Island hopping” on the Helgeland coast is an adventure that we think all travellers should treat themselves to at least once in their life. And you can do this by kayak, local express boats, or on two wheels. You’re able to bring your bicycle on the express boat, and there are many places where you can rent a kayak.
You can fly to Bodø, Mo i Rana, Sandnessjøen or Brønnøysund, and from there start your “island hopping” adventure by boarding the express boat. If you have a bike or kayak, you can bring it with you – and either is a great and more flexible alternative to driving a car, especially during the summer. With the Travel Pass Nordland, you can travel as much as you like for a whole week at no extra cost. Think of it as “Interrail by sea”, and take full advantage of the special Summer Route.
Choose “your” island
Next, all you have to do is choose one of the many beautiful islands along the Helgeland coast. Maybe one of the larger islands such as Vega or Dønna, where you can cycle for many hours, hike the mountains and go kayaking amongst the islets and skerries? Perhaps you would prefer a smaller, weather-beaten island such as the fascinating Myken and Træna? Or choose tranquil days and great dining on Lovund or Støtt, Rødøya or Bolga?
Itineraries
Book your experience
Vega World Heritage Center
The Vega World Heritage Centre, which is beautifully located at Gardsøy, documents the history and culture of the Vega islanders. Here you can gain fascinating insights into the lives of these fishermen-farmers, and about their centuries-old local tradition of protecting the eider ducks who come to nest here – a tradition that led to Vega being granted UNESCO’s World Heritage status.
Adolfstua on Myken – A Nordland House with Character
Welcome to a stay in your own cozy holiday home, at the outer edge of the Helgeland coast, and experience life in one of our smallest island communities.
Selsøyvik Trading Post in Rødøy
Selsøyvik Trading Post is one of Helgeland’s oldest and most esteemed accommodation options. The island of Selsøyvik is beautifully situated along the shipping lane, surrounded by Rødøyløva, Hestmannen, and Svartisen. Here you will find accommodation, a large and beautiful guest harbor, a general store, and a café.
Bergh-brygga and Gammelskolen in Leirfjord
Leirfjord Museum is located in the old Bergh-brygga at Leland. Also, make sure to visit the beautiful Gammelskolen, which was in operation until the mid-1950s. Welcome to a journey through time!
Tjøtta Gjestegaard – Accommodation and café in historical surroundings
Stay close to nature experiences in historic surroundings at Tjøtta Guesthouse, conveniently located near the Seven Sisters mountain range, cultural trails, and historical sites, with excellent ferry connections for day trips to the islands along the Helgeland coast.
Visit the recreated Viking chiefdom seat in Sandnessjøen
You are invited to an authentic Viking experience! Bring your family or friends and see the clothes and customs, partake in activities, and enjoy a Viking banquet.
Træna Lodge – waterfront accommodation on the Helgeland coast
Stay close to the ocean and island life at Husøy in Træna. Træna Lodge is a modern wharf house with four bedrooms, a private floating dock, and easy access to fishing, culture, and everyday life in one of the most beautiful island landscapes in the world.
Kayaking trips in the Meløy and Rødøy area
Meløy Adventure offers guided kayaking trips on the Glomfjord, to the Svartisen glacier, and on the waters near Rødøyløva (443 m), as well as longer excursions around the island of Mesøy. The company also rents out kayaks, and its experienced instructors offer a variety of kayaking courses.
Krambua Café in the coffee roastery at Forvik Old trading post
Nestled between the sea and history, along the Coastal Route in Vevelstad, you’ll find Forvik old trading post — a living tribute to Northern Norwegian coastal culture and one of Helgeland’s most charming roadside stops. Here, you can visit the cosy café, shop, and coffee roastery in the old general store, and enjoy a moment of rich aromas and flavours in a truly historic setting.
The Petter Dass Museum
At Alstahaug you will find a museum and a church that highlight centuries of the cultural and architectural history of Northern Norway. Moreover, the area is rich in cultural monuments and is a popular hiking area for both locals and tourists. The Petter Dass Museum and Alstahaug were chosen as Nordland County’s venues to celebrate the dawning of a new millennium.
