“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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Furøy Camping by the Svartisen glacier
Furøy Camping is conveniently located near the coastal route «National Tourist Route Helgeland Coast», in the northern parts of the coast, with close proximity to the Svartisen glacier. The campsite offers cabins and spaces for motorhomes, caravans, and tents.
Guided kayak tour in Herøy
Join us for a guided tour of some of the finest kayaking areas in all of Helgeland.
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.
Idyllic farm retreat on Dønna
3 Kalver is located on the scenic island of Dønna along the Helgeland coast, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful place to stay and dine surrounded by idyllic, quiet farm life, with Dønna’s stunning coastal nature right at your doorstep.
The Havna festival
Music festival in Sandnessjøen
August 8th and 9th 2025
Locally known simply as “Havna” (the Harbour), this festival takes place in Sandnessjøen during the second weekend of August each year.
Lyngvågen Café on Gjerdøya in Rødøy
At Lyngvågen Café on the beautiful Gjerdøya in Rødøy, you can enjoy homemade seafood and opt for an overnight stay. Lyngvågen is an excellent base for exploring Gjerdøya and the other islands in Rødøy.
Trænafestivalen
Music festival in Træna
July 9th to 12th 2025
Trænafestivalen is a cultural experience as breathtaking and unique as the landscape it’s set in—beautiful Træna, located on the outer edge of the Helgeland coast. This is one of the most exciting opportunities to experience these remote islands at their most vibrant.
Dønnes Skolestua – Accommodation and RV parking
In 1922, the old schoolhouse was built to provide a safe and warm shelter for children who had a long way home. Now, a hundred years later, it welcomes those who wish to experience the tranquility and beautiful nature in the northern part of Dønna, right on the Helgeland coast.
Sailing with the Nordland boat Faragut
Join the sailing trip on the beautiful Nordland boat Faragut and experience Helgeland from the sea just as people here have done since the Viking Age. The Nordland boat is an open, low, and sturdy wooden boat that has its roots all the way back to the Viking ships, and it’s an experience to stand at the helm when the wind fills the sail.
Velfjordferie – A holiday stay for guests who love fishing!
Velfjordferie is beautifully situated by the fjord, with great fishing spots and hiking trails nearby! The area lies just south of the Arctic Circle, which means you have daylight virtually round-the-clock, from mid-May to the end of July. Fishing is especially popular at “night”, when the wind dies down and the sea often is calm as a mirror.
