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
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.
Hildurs Urterarium – Culinary adventures
Hildur’s Urterarium is a vibrant and lush place where both the food and the surroundings are an integral part of the experience. The well‑tended herb garden is open to visitors and invites peaceful walks among herbs, flowers and a beautiful garden setting. Inside Restaurant Sagastuen and the old parlour, guests can enjoy the calm and cosy atmosphere, combined with flavours based on local ingredients – perfect for those seeking a break from everyday life and memorable tastes in good company.
Torghatten Camping – Fishing, dining and much more
Torghatten Camping is idyllically situated at the foot of the legendary mountain Torghatten. Accommodation offered here includes high-standard cabins and apartments. There are spots to pitch your tent and electrical hook-ups for your caravan or camper. The restaurant here is known for excellent dining.
Svang Restaurant & Wine Bar – In the heart of Brønnøysund
A cozy place with a focus on local food, suitable for both big and small occasions. At Svang, the hosts warmly welcome you to stop by for a delicious meal, some snacks, or something delightful to drink
Sømna Bygdetun – An open-air museum
Step into coastal history at Sømna Bygdetun. This local heritage museum brings you close to everyday life on the Helgeland coast in the 1800s, and tells the story of how grain was grown in the north, against the odds.
