“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
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Sandnessjøen Camping
Sandnessjøen camping is located at Steiro along the Rv 17, 10 kilometers south of Sandnessjøen. Sandnessjøen Camping is just a short walk from the mountains De Syv Søstre and the local airport.
Stupbratt Klatreklubb – Climbing hall in Brønnøysund
Test your climbing skills, challenge yourself and each other, and reach new heights at Stupbratt Klatreklubb’s climbing hall. With over 60 routes in all difficulty levels, auto belay, a bouldering wall, and a Kilter Board, there’s something for everyone—regardless of age or experience.
Glacier hike on Svartisen with Explore Svartisen
Join an adventurous glacier hike on the Engabreen glacier tongue in Svartisen, Meløy.
Støtt in Meløy – Top of Helgeland
The picturesque old trading post of Støtt offers some of Helgeland’s most beautiful and unique holiday experiences. Many adventures await you here, and you can enjoy charming quarters and great dining in historic buildings steeped in the island’s ancient coastal heritage.
Exhibition: The Life and Work of Ole Edvart Rølvaag
Ole Edvart Rølvaag emigrated from Dønna to the USA in the late 1800s. There, he wrote several novels about emigrating from Norway and being an immigrant in the USA during that time. At the Dønna exhibition, you can learn more about the author’s life and work and see the complete collection of Ole Edvart Rølvaag’s first editions.
Brygga on Dønna
“Brygga” is nicely located in quiet surroundings on the north-eastern side of Dønna, 7 km from the ferry terminal at Bjørn. The wharf consists of 5 apartments of 60 square meters each located right next to the sea. They also offera a conference room, boathouse, grill, hot tub and a cabin (Rorbu).
Lovund Hotel
Lovund Hotel is the perfect base for exploring the enchanting island of Lovund. With comfortable accommodation, delicious cuisine, and stunning views of the sea and mountains, you can relax and unwind after a day of hiking or bird-watching. Enjoy the urban island life and breathtaking views from the comfort of your room or the hotel’s terrace.
Dønnesfjellstua – Dining on a mountain top overlooking the Helgeland coast!
You are invited to enjoy an incredible 360-degree panorama, while dining on dishes made with locally-produced ingredients. Dønnesfjellet is only 128 metres high, but the view is magnificent.
Myken bed and soup
Myken is a small fishing community far from the mainland. The islands of this archipelago have no car traffic – in fact the main island has less than one kilometre of road. Myken invites you to experience its island scenery, the ever-changing sea, and the midnight sun.
Vega Havhotell
Vega havhotell is a small hotel in beautiful surroundings with the ocean close by. Vega Havhotell is located at the north-west part of Vega, at Viksaas between forests, mountains and seas.
