“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 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.
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.
Dinner in the Dark – a different kind of sensory experience
Welcome to an evening where taste, aroma, and sound take center stage – while your sense of sight is completely switched off!
Trænafestivalen
Music festival in Træna
July 9th to 12th 2026
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.
Audio guide Brønnøysund – a walk through 10,000 years of history
Brønnøysund is more than a beautiful coastal town – it’s a living map of history, with traces of people, trade, and life along the coast over 10,000 years. This audio guide lets you explore the town’s rich past and present at your own pace, right in the heart of a landscape scattered with thousands of islands, islets, and skerries.
Rootsfestivalen
Music festival in Brønnøysund
July 16th to 19th 2026
In the height of summer, you can enjoy four days of a vibrant mix of local musicians, emerging talents, and well-known national and international artists.
Activity vacation on Ylvingen
This is the four-day vacation you need, with accommodation, meals, and activities on the beautiful ‘Himmelblå Island’ Ylvingen.
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.
Guided mountain tours on Dønna and the Seven Sisters
Join a guided mountain tour to three of the finest hiking destinations in Dønna and Sandnessjøen. Herøy Kayak & Bike can guide you on an easy hike to Åkvikfjellet or Markvollkulpen, or join us to the top of the spectacular mountain Dønnamannen.
Norwegian Aquaculture Centre – A salmon success story
The Norwegian Aquaculture Centre is beautifully situated by Toftsundet. The actual fish farm is reached by a gangway from the shore. This is the place to learn more about the fascinating life cycle of salmon, and the pioneering work that made Norwegian aquaculture such an international success.
