“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.
The Romantic House on Herøy
Det Romantiske Huset (“the Romantic House”) offers charming accommodation in tranquil surroundings by the sea, on Herøy on the Helgeland coast. The panorama is magnificent, spanning from the Seven Sisters mountains in the south to the peak called Dønnamannen in the north. Holiday adventures available here include kayaking, RIB sea rafting excursions, fishing, hiking, cycling and island hopping.
Rootsfestivalen
Music festival in Brønnøysund
July 16th to 19th 2025
In the height of summer, you can enjoy four days of a vibrant mix of local musicians, emerging talents, and well-known national and international artists.
Hotel Scandic Seven Sisters – Accomodation Sandnessjøen
As a guest, you will immediately realize why the Hotel Scandic Syv Søstre bears the name of the Seven Sisters mountains. The hotel enjoys a great view of these renowned mountains. A holiday base here is perfect for exploring the many island treasures of the Helgeland coast, including Dønna and its colourful history, the idyllic island of Herøy, and the Vega archipelago, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ristning-Tjaalege, Vevelstad museum and bygdetun
Not far from the Forvik ferry terminal lies the new museum building Ristning–Tjaalege and the local heritage site, side by side with Vevelstad Church. Around the museum, you can find intriguing ancient monuments such as rock art (petroglyphs) and burial mounds from the Iron Age.
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.
Rødøy Coastal Shop- café and 24-hour grocery store
The Rødøy Coastal Shop (Rødøy Kysthandel) you’ll find both a cozy café and a 24-hour, self-service grocery store, so you can get what you need whenever you need it.
Idyllic farm retreat on Dønna
3 Kalver is located on the scenic island of Dønna along the Helgeland coast, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful place to stay and dine surrounded by idyllic, quiet farm life, with Dønna’s stunning coastal nature right at your doorstep.
Tampen Café on Kvarøy
At the edge of the pier on Indre Kvarøy, you’ll find the bustling life at Tampen Café—a surprisingly urban lunch spot in the midst of an exciting, small coastal community.
Løkta Museum
Be sure to visit Løkta Museum, beautifully located on the west side of the island. Here, you can experience what life was like on a small farm in the old days. The area is open to all and features a picnic area, a fire pit, and a small outhouse.
