Herøy: Island Archipelago, Coastal Culture and Kayaking

An island world with many sides

Herøy is an island municipality off Sandnessjøen. Several larger inhabited islands and thousands of smaller islands and skerries make up an extensive archipelago. Bridges between most of Herøy’s larger islands and the neighbouring island of Dønna make cycling trips over short and long distances possible. When looking for a holiday rental, you can therefore first consider whether you are most drawn to island life, culture and history, or active days on your bike and on the water.

There are also different ways to get here: express boats connect Sandnessjøen with Flostad on Herøy, while a ferry connects Søvik with Herøy. The tourist information office is next to the Flostad ferry terminal. Flostad is therefore a useful landmark when planning your arrival on Herøy.

Discover coastal culture and history

The Herøy bygdesamling showcases the coastal culture native to Herøy. It consists of a complete farmstead with seven buildings dating from 1745 to 1890; all are protected or designated as worthy of preservation. Traces of settlement on Herøy date back 1,500 years. Anyone interested in the life and history of the island municipality will find a tangible introduction to coastal culture here.

Another notable historic building is Herøy kirke. It dates from the 12th century and is the only medieval church in Northern Norway with a semicircular apse. This architectural feature makes it a special destination for visitors interested in medieval churches and architectural styles.

On Seløy, Skolo brings together several cultural and culinary experiences: it serves as a cultural centre and gallery for local artists, and is also a pizzeria where visitors can enjoy pizza. Also on Herøy, the Etcetera shop features an art exhibition. Its range includes flowers, pots, home furnishings, decorations, plants, jewellery, chocolate and liquorice. The selection therefore spans local art, items for the home and garden, and small treats.

Cycling, paddling and sailing

The island connections offer opportunities for cycling trips of varying lengths. One guided tour runs from Sandnessjøen via Dønna and the Herøy archipelago, with stops at cafés and shops along the way. On Herøy, Herøy Kajakk & Sykkel rents regular bikes and e-bikes. You can choose between a guided ride with set stops and a self-planned cycling trip.

For days on the water, Herøy Kajakk & Sykkel rents kayaks and SUP boards and offers guided paddling tours. The services also include a map with recommended paddling routes for trips of three to five hours, as well as a prepared kayak launch site. One guided tour goes to the island area around Øksningan and Hjelmsøya in western Herøy; coffee and a simple lunch are included. Another tour follows Herøysundet, through particularly calm, sheltered waters near Silvalen. It is short and easy, and is also suitable for beginners without a Våttkort.

If you would rather travel under sail, Nordvær offers sailing charters along the Helgeland coast from Seløy. The company operates year-round and tailors sailing experiences to all four seasons. Depending on the itinerary, kayaking, ski touring and freediving can be included. These different activities can help guide your choice of holiday rental: the key question is whether you would like to combine your trip with culture, cycling, paddling or a sailing experience.

Beaches and special occasions

Rakelfjæro, also known as Innerfjæro, is a large, shallow beach on Herøy. The beach has a bathing jetty, parking, toilets and showers. If you would like to include a beach visit in your trip, you can consider this spot alongside the cultural and activity offerings.

Herøydagan takes place every year on the last weekend of June. The programme includes concerts, cultural events, family activities, a market and social gatherings. If you would like to plan your trip around the festival, this annual event provides a specific date to plan for. You can also discover other destinations in Brasøy.

For the main travel overview: Herøy.