“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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Guided island hopping by bike to Dønna and Herøy.
Take a guided bike ride from Sandnessjøen to the scenic islands of Dønna and Herøy, with stops at charming cafés and unique local shops along the way.
Kvitneset Camping – Rorbu cabins and boat rentals in scenic surroundings
Kvitneset Camping in Leirfjord municipality offers accommodation in scenic surroundings by a secluded fjord. Guests enjoy a beautiful view of the fjord and the Seven Sisters mountains.
Bindal Museum and the old croft at Vassås
Bindal Museum at Terråk documents local forestry, boatbuilding and other wood-working traditions. It contrasts past and present practices. The museum also includes Bindal Bygdetun, an open-air museum at an authentic old croft at Vassås, 2.5 km north of Terråk.
A weekend of high adventure on the lofty peaks!
The picturesque Meløy Alps offers some of the wildest off-piste skiing in Northern Norway!
8770 Træna
If you visit Husøya, the main island in the Træna archipelago, consider staying at the cosy little hotel called 8770 Træna. Træna is a vibrant community, and here you will find good dining as well as strikingly beautiful scenery.
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.
3 Kalver – Hearty dining at a farm restaurant
The farm restaurant called 3 Kalver (Three Calves), situated on the island of Dønna, offers satisfying dining in distinctive surroundings. The menu proudly features dishes based on quality local ingredients.
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.
Træna Kaffekollektiv – Charming coffee bar in Træna
Træna Kaffekollektiv is a small and cozy coffee bar offering stunning views over Trænfjorden, serving the finest coffee in the archipelago.
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.
