Scenic stop: Sundshopen rest area in Sømna
Kristoffer Møllevik / Visit HelgelandSundshopen is part of Norway’s National Scenic Routes and is a beautifully designed rest area along the National Tourist Route Helgelandskysten, or the Coastal Route, passing through Sømna. Here, you’ll find benches, restrooms, and a long, gently sloping stone pier extending into the water.
Turinfo
Accessibility: Easy. Sundshopen is located right by the road and is accessible by both car and bike.
Find the way with Google Maps
Season: Open year-round, although the water may freeze during winter.
Parking: Large parking area with restrooms and benches.
Find the parking with Google Maps
Sundshopen Rest Area is an ideal stop on the way to and from Brønnøysund, or as a cycling spot in itself. The area is well-equipped with toilets, benches, and a long stone pier that extends into the water, perfect for launching a kayak, taking a swim, or enjoying a packed lunch before continuing your journey.
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, dining, and activities nearby
Bike rental in Brønnøysund
Situated in the centre of Brønnøysund, the Tourist Information office offers bicycle rental, as well as all the equipment you need for short bike rides or long cycling adventures.
Sømna Kro og Gjestegård
A welcoming inn offering comfort and a taste of local culture in the charming village of Vik, Sømna. Here, you can enjoy a pleasant stay and great food in peaceful surroundings, close to nature and a charming cultural landscape.
Velfjord Museum
The Brønnøy and Velfjord districts share an ancient history of fishing and farming, as well as a proud indigenous Sámi culture. You can gain many cultural insights by visiting the exhibitions in the old supermarket at Minnetun, as well as in the goahti (reconstructed turf hut) near here.
Norwegian Aquaculture Centre – Rorbu cabins by the sea
If you’re heading to the beautiful Helgeland coast, you’ll find yourself in the heart of one of Norway’s most important industries. Along the shoreline of Toftsundet, you’ll find the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre — right in the middle of salmon country. Here, you can experience the life of the salmon up close. The demonstration facility is easily accessible from land, located right next to the seaside cabins, an indoor historical exhibition, and the on-site restaurant. It’s a great place to stay by the sea, create lasting holiday memories, and enjoy the fresh sea air.
Himmelblå Brygge: Dining and accommodation at Ylvingen
To Norwegians, Himmelblå Brygge and the island of Ylvingen is well known from a popular TV programme. Fortunately, all visitors are welcome to dine and enjoy an overnight stay here. Some of the accommodation is unusual and the scenic surroundings are magnificent. And for young and old, Himmelblå Brygge offers lots of activities and great adventures!