“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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Glacier hike on Svartisen with Explore Svartisen
Join an adventurous glacier hike on the Engabreen glacier tongue in Svartisen, Meløy.
Myken Handel – local shop and gathering spot
On the island of Myken, far out at sea, you’ll find a small shop with big importance. Myken Handel is more than a grocery store – it’s a natural meeting place for locals and visitors alike, located just a stone’s throw from the express boat dock.
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.
Thon Hotel Brønnøysund
Thon Hotel Brønnøysund is situated in the heart of this coastal town in southern Helgeland. The hotel offers attractive new rooms, a restaurant with à la carte dining, and plenty of free parking for guests.
Experience all of Helgeland with Helgeland Travel Service
Helgeland Travel Service (HTS) will gladly take you on a tour to Helgeland’s many attractions. Whether we explore the coast or inland tracts, on a clear summer day or a day with mist and rain, all of our excursions will show you the magnificent landscape of Helgeland.
Falch Old Trading Post, Rødøy
Falch Old Trading is beautifully situated on the Tjongsfjord, and it’s just a short detour from the Coastal Highway, Fv17. This trading post has provided many functions through the years: a fish plant, cod liver oil production, fishnet production, country store, doctor’s offices and pharmacy.
Husvær – a Paddlers’ Paradise
An indescribable island kingdom in the heart of the world’s most beautiful coastline. Here you’ll find calm channels, chalk-white beaches, and panoramic views of the Seven Sisters mountains. Perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
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.
Hildurs Urterarium – Accommodation
Stay in newly renovated and cozy rooms at Hildurs Urterarium outside Brønnøysund. Here you are met by pleasant hosts in homely and good surroundings.
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
