“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
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.
Rent a bike at Træna
At the Træna Tourist Office on Husøya, you can rent bicycles to explore the beautiful island.
Lurøy Rorbuer
Enjoy long, bright summer days or a beautiful winter visit to Onøy and Lurøy. Experience island life, coastal culture, and scenic hiking areas. Go kayaking in the sheltered archipelago, visit neighbouring islands like Lovund, Træna, and Hestmannøy — and end the day with the evening sun by the pier or a quiet moment in the sauna.
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.
Restaurant Soprano – Wining and dining in Sandnessjøen
Restaurant Soprano offers a taste of Italy in rustic surroundings. During the summer, you can dine at an outdoor table, surrounded by trees, cobblestones and people strolling along the pleasant pedestrian street on which the cosy restaurant is situated.
Winter dream at Støtt
Do you dream of going from the hustle of the big city to “winter world” where the polar lights and the northern lights create magic? Visit the island Støtt and be close to nature, culture and history.
Activity vacation on Ylvingen
This is the four-day vacation you need, with accommodation, meals, and activities on the beautiful ‘Himmelblå Island’ Ylvingen.
Base Camp Vega – kayaking, climbing and accommodation
At Base Camp Vega you can stay in mini-cabins whose unique design is inspired by the little huts the islanders build for the thousands of eider ducks that nest in the Vega archipelago every year. We also offer good spots where you can pitch your tent. Base Camp Vega is situated right by the Vega Stairs and the Ravnfloget Via Ferrata, and the sheltered waters nearby are perfect for kayaking.
Whisky Carthedral at Myken
Join a Whisky Tasting with Storytelling on a Guided Tour through Myken’s Own Whisky Cathedral
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.
