Hike description: Dønnesfjellet
Ann-Marie Johanne Olsson / DønnesfjellstuaThe hike to Dønnesfjellet (the “Dønnes mountain”) is an easy and scenic trip located on the northern part of Dønna. With just 125 meters of elevation gain, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the islands along the Helgeland coast and, depending on the season, stunning sunsets or the midnight sun over the ocean.
Turinfo
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: Approximately 3 km (round trip)
Elevation gain: About 125 meters one way
Duration: Around 1 hour
Season: May to October
Starting point: Parking lot at Dønnes Church
See the starting point in Google Maps
Telltur.no
The Dønnes Nature and Culture Trail begins at Dønnes Gård, leading through Dønnesskogen forest and up to the viewpoint at Dønnesfjellet, 128 meters above sea level. The trail is well-marked, signposted, and equipped with steps and bridges at challenging sections. From the summit, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Helgeland coast in all directions.
Ann-Marie Johanne Olsson / Dønnesfjellstua
Dønnes Gård
The trail starts on a farm road heading west along the churchyard and is signposted. After 200–300 meters, the trail branches to the right, entering Dønnesskogen. This forest was planted by landowner Isach Coldevin in the early 1900s and was noted in 1954 to contain 17 different conifer species, many of which still thrive today.
Follow the trail all the way to the top, where you can take in the view and stop by Dønnesfjellstua, a café offering refreshments when open. The trail continues down past the café, with steps on the south side of the summit. It loops back through Dønnesskogen to the starting point near the church.
For an even easier option, or if you wish to bike or drive, you can take the road on the northeast side of Dønnesfjellet to reach the summit.
Thank you for respecting the local communities, and for helping us preserve the natural beauty of Helgeland!
Please:
- Strive to leave no trace of your visit. Bring back all your rubbish, including used toilet paper, and discard it in the nearest rubbish bin.
- Plan your toilet visits and use the opportunity when you pass a toilet. In the wilderness, make sure you are not a nuisance to others.
- Respect the local wildlife. Keep a good distance from wildlife, livestock and birds. Keep your dog leashed.
- Respect private property. Keep a respectful distance from houses and cabins.
- Show good boating sense. Keep a good distance from shore and drive at a low speed, especially when you are close to anyone or anything on the water, including birds or animals. Avoid loud and disturbing engine noise. Be aware that some islands and nature reserves are important nesting sites, and that going ashore is prohibited during the nesting season.
- Follow the Norwegian Mountain Code (Fjellvettreglene). Plan your excursion according to the weather forecast, your skills and experience.
- Join a guided excursion or consider hiring an experienced guide, especially when you don’t have sufficient experience or knowledge to guarantee a safe trip.
Find accommodation, food, and activities nearby.
Idyllic Accommodation in a Nordland House on Dønna
The whole extended family can fit in this beautifully maintained and cozy old Nordland house. Enjoy the summer sun, down by the water or in the large garden, or spend autumn and winter evenings in the warm, inviting living rooms.
Sjokoladebrygga on Dønna
Visit “the world’s smallest chocolate factory” by the sea on Dønna and experience how delicious chocolate can be when made with care and attention to exclusive, organic ingredients.
Løkta Museum
Be sure to visit Løkta Museum, beautifully located on the west side of the island. Here, you can experience what life was like on a small farm in the old days. The area is open to all and features a picnic area, a fire pit, and a small outhouse.
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.
Exhibition: The Life and Work of Ole Edvart Rølvaag
Ole Edvart Rølvaag emigrated from Dønna to the USA in the late 1800s. There, he wrote several novels about emigrating from Norway and being an immigrant in the USA during that time. At the Dønna exhibition, you can learn more about the author’s life and work and see the complete collection of Ole Edvart Rølvaag’s first editions.
