“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
Glacier hike on Svartisen with Explore Svartisen
Join an adventurous glacier hike on the Engabreen glacier tongue in Svartisen, Meløy.
Padleheimen – Courses and guided tours in the beautiful Støttvær archipelago
Join a guided tour or kayak course in the stunning Støttvær islands. Enjoy birdwatching and the peaceful waters and striking landscapes, or challenge yourself in rougher seas along the outer edge of the islands.
Oscarbrygga – Accommodation and dining
OscarBrygga at Tonnes offers accommodation in rorbu cabins or wharf rooms, right on the shore. From your balcony, you can enjoy the sunset or the glow of the midnight sun, to the soothing sound of the surf. Dining is offered in a refurbished old wharf building rich in ambience.
Whisky Carthedral at Myken
Join a Whisky Tasting with Storytelling on a Guided Tour through Myken’s Own Whisky Cathedral
Hotel Sjyen – with fjord and mountain views
In the heart of the coastal village of Nesna, overlooking the fjord and the islands of Tomma, Hugla, and Handnesøya, you’ll find the newly opened Hotell Sjyen.
Skolo – an architectural gem in Herøy
The beautiful renovation of Seløy’s old school has been described in an article in “The Norwegian Review of Architecture”. Today, travellers can find accommodation here, drink quality coffee, eat pizza, browse books and buy artworks in the shop – and enjoy the panoramic view of The Seven Sisters mountains
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.
Grønsvik coastal fortress, Lurøy
If you want to see an unusual attraction and gain insights into World War II history, we recommend a visit to the old German coastal fortress at Grønsvik, which is now a museum. As you walk from the attractive parking lot and picnic area, you enter a dark chapter of European history.
Sailing adventures with Nordvær
Nordvær on Seløy can give you a diverse range of activities and experiences with their modern sailing catamaran as your base. You can choose between kayaking, freediving, hiking, skiing, and culinary experiences while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Norwegian landscape.
Halibudskole Vandve – A holiday home with boat rental and a nearby glasblowers workshop
Halibutskole Vandve offers a holiday stay where you’ll have some really great fishing opportunities. Guests who appreciate the arts and creative crafts will be pleased to know that a glassblower has a workshop nearby.
