“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.
Nature experiences in the beautiful Solvær archipelago
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 Islands.
Nordvika Old Trading Post, on Dønna
The old trading post at Nordvika is one of the oldest and most intact in all of Nordland County. The museum is beautifully situated between towering mountains on the island of Dønna, just a ferry ride from its nearest town, Sandnessjøen.
Træna Rorbuferie
The Træna archipelago is surrounded by the open sea. Træna Rorbuferie is situated on Husøya, the most populated of these islands. Here, amidst magnificent scenic surroundings, you have a golden opportunity to experience the thriving coastal culture of a vibrant island community.
Herøy Brygge – Accommodation in Herøy's island kingdom
At Herøy Brygge, you can stay in beautiful, newly renovated rooms by the sea, in your own boat at the guest dock, or stop by for a pleasant dinner by the pier. With good food, comfortable beds, and excellent hospitality, you’ll have a wonderful time in this beautiful archipelago.
Seaside stays on Dønna
A spacious boathouse, a charming fisherman’s cabin, and a cosy cottage – all set in beautiful surroundings where the sea meets the hills in northern Dønna.
Bolga Brygge – Sleep to the soothing sound of waves
Bolga Brygge offers comfortable accommodation and good dining. Guest can enjoy fishing, kayaking the sheltered waters nearby, and hiking up a mountain that offers an amazing panorama of a large section of Helgeland.
Restaurant Gammelbutikken – authentic local seafood
Restaurant Gammelbutikken is Støtt’s grand locale and exudes authentic coastal culture. Here, you can taste the best that the island and the sea have to offer in terms of local culinary treasures. They follow the entire value chain, from harvesting ingredients in the island’s natural surroundings and catching fish in the Vestfjorden, to serving it in the restaurant.
Velfjord Museum
The Brønnøy and Velfjord districts share an ancient history of fishing and farming, as well as a proud indigenous Sámi culture. You can gain many cultural insights by visiting the exhibitions in the old supermarket at Minnetun, as well as in the goahti (reconstructed turf hut) near here.
The kayakers paradise at Støtt
From Støtt, you can paddle in the beautiful and sheltered archipelago of Støttvær or indulge in the thrill of surfing waves and breakers along the open coast. Join a course, embark on a guided tour, or rent a kayak of your own.
