“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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Ytri Island Retreat – more than just a hotel
Ytri Island Retreat in Træna is an exclusive coastal resort offering 38 rooms and suites, a bar, seafood restaurant, meeting rooms, saunas, an outdoor wellness area, boathouse, guest harbor, and a sandy beach.
Terråk Gjestegård – Comfortable Accommodation and Good Food in Bindal
At Terråk Gjestegård, guests can stay in comfortable rooms and enjoy dinner at the in-house restaurant Færingen Spiseri – all within easy reach of the many experiences Terråk and Bindal offer, from the fjords to the mountains.
Forvik Old Trading Post
The old trading post at Forvik in Vevelstad, which dates back to 1792, is beautifully situated on the sea along route Fv17. Accommodation in charming surroundings is offered in the oldest building, Grålåna. There is a restaurant in Naustloftet, and a coffee roastery in the old general store. People often gather in Brygga, the wharf building, to enjoy the long bright summer evenings.
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.
Havkanten Guesthouse – Restaurant & Accommodation
At Havkanten Restaurant, you can combine a delicious dinner with a spa and sauna on the pier, a sunset RIB adventure, or a wine tasting featuring local flavours.
Sailing trips to Vega, Lånan and Torghatten
You are invited on an unforgettable sailing trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Area of the islands of Vega and the eider duck nesting site, Lånan, that for many generations has been protected by the islanders. Or choose a voyage to the legendary mountain with a hole through it, Torghatten.
Corner Hotel
Corner Hotel – Hotel in the center of Brønnøysund, a coastal town in the middle of Norway! Corner Hotel offers affordable accommodation in close proximity to Norway’s perhaps most beautiful coastal stretch. Vega world herritage area is only a 25 minute boat ride away. The motel is perfect for those who want adventure and activity when visiting Helgeland.
Aloha Cafe on Træna
Aloha Cafe, nestled in the heart of Høusøy in Træna, offers a delightful cafe experience with a touch of island charm. With it’s central location it’s just a short walk from the express boat and ferry terminals, the church, tourist information center, grocery store, Træna Accommodation, and House by the Sea.
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.
Norwegian Aquaculture Centre – A salmon success story
The Norwegian Aquaculture Centre is beautifully situated by Toftsundet. The actual fish farm is reached by a gangway from the shore. This is the place to learn more about the fascinating life cycle of salmon, and the pioneering work that made Norwegian aquaculture such an international success.
