Bratland: Omega history and nature at Aldersundet

Bratland combines an unusual history of technology with hiking destinations and coastal scenery at Aldersundet. In 1966, the Omega transmitter, funded by the US Navy to help ships, submarines and aircraft navigate, was moved to Bratland; the station was permanently established in 1973. Bratland, near Aldersundet, also has tourist facilities.

A station with its own timeline

The two years mark different stages: first the relocation of the navigation transmitter, then the permanent establishment of the station. This makes it easy to place the development of the site in context, without conflating the historical event with what is offered to visitors today.

Hiking, a round of disc golf and the beach

Nearby, a long, narrow sound winds through Aldersundet between the island of Aldra and the high, steep mountains on the mainland; the Kystriksveien runs along the sound. The area between the outlet of Vassvatnet and Bratlandstjønna is considered an important hiking area near Bratland. One specific hike to Klubben and Åstuva starts at Aldersundet School in Lurøy. From Åstuva and Klubben, panoramic views stretch across Aldersundet and the Helgeland coast. Åstuva is a small hill about 350 metres high and a shorter hiking destination. Trail conditions and access may vary by season; check before setting out.

Aldersundet also has a 12-hole disc golf course in hilly woodland. It is about two kilometres long, and the estimated playing time is around one hour and 20 minutes. This offers a clearly defined round of play alongside the scenic hiking destinations. Course conditions vary by season.

Sila, a short, shallow fjord, lies south of Aldersundet. Its long beach is suitable for swimming on warm summer days. The transmitter’s history is directly connected with Bratland; disc golf, hiking destinations and the beach are located in Aldersundet and the surrounding area. When choosing where to stay, you can therefore weigh up whether the historical connection to the place or the activities and scenery nearby will play a greater part in your stay.

Culture in the wider Lurøy destination

In Lurøy Municipality, Aldersund Church is a distinctive building: a wooden long church completed in 1971, formerly known as Aldersund Chapel. It can accommodate 230 people and is located close to the Kystriksveien (Fv 17). Its architectural style, year of construction and former name give the church a distinct historical connection within the municipality.

At the wider Lurøy destination, the Grønsvik Coastal Fort tells the story of the local occupation. Preserved fortifications, buildings and other infrastructure recall the fate of the prisoners of war who were forced to build it. The bunker complex and surrounding grounds are freely accessible year-round. The seasonal programme includes guided tours, talks and concerts; check the dates for your travel period.

Getting there and finding your way

To get around Lurøy, ferries and express boats travel from the mainland locations of Stokkvågen and Tonnes to the municipality’s islands. Express boats also operate daily to and from Sandnessjøen and Bodø. Check the latest timetables before travelling.

One described route from Mo i Rana to Kvannskardet first follows the Fv 12 for about 80 kilometres to Utskarpen, then continues along the Fv 17 to Brattland in Aldersundet. At Kvannskardet, there is a car park by the bridge over the Storåga. Check current road conditions and local parking arrangements in advance.

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