Værlandet: Island Trails, Nature and Fishing History

On Værlandet, striking rock formations meet island trails and traces of a long fishing history. Nordsjøporten connects the islands and can be explored by car, bicycle or on foot; those who enjoy being out on the water will find an archipelago described as a paddling destination in Værlandet and Bulandet. Which of these perspectives appeals to you may shape your choice of Værlandet as a holiday destination.

Rock formations and protected nature

The greenstone on Værlandet is ancient lava from the seabed. The distinctive shapes of the rocky peaks also tell the geological story of the island: they are probably the result of the combination of hard, solid rock and erosion by ice and sea during and after the last Ice Age. This makes Værlandet interesting not only for hiking, but also for taking a closer look at the landscape.

The Sørværet Nature Reserve lies near Værlandet, in the municipality of Askvoll. Its conservation purposes include protecting an archipelago and wetland area with its natural vegetation and wildlife, the area's functions for birdlife, peatland areas and the geological conservation values of Devonian sandstone. Visitors to the reserve may be able to spot seals, otters, eagles and deer. For families, this offers an opportunity to experience nature attentively together, without assuming that wildlife will definitely be seen.

On foot or along the island route

The well-marked Nordsjøløypa takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to walk. Heading west, it follows the old school route; there is also a detour from the trail to Høgkletten. At 163 metres above sea level, it is the highest point on Værlandet. Adding this detour to your hike gives you a specific destination on the island. The walking time is approximate.

The cycling route between Værlandet and Bulandet offers a different perspective. It runs from the ferry quay on Værlandet to the quay in Bulandet and is about 10.8 kilometres long. Along the way, it crosses six bridges and offers views of islands and sea; you will also pass art installations and attractive boathouses. This route appeals to travellers who want to experience the island connections actively. Nordsjøporten connects the islands and can be explored by car, bicycle or on foot.

Harbour life and everyday history

Hamna is home to a group of buildings worthy of preservation. The place was an important fishing harbour: from the late 19th century until Nordsjøporten opened in 2003, ships carrying passengers and goods called there. This gives a visit a historical dimension that differs from the geological story of the rocky landscape.

The Engelbua Museum is housed in an old boathouse in Værøyhamna. Its collection includes objects from fishing, farming and household life in the 19th and 20th centuries. Those interested in coastal life will find a thematic counterpoint to hiking and cycling trips here. For a break or a meal, Jungeltelegrafen at the Værlandet Handel shop sells baked goods, coffee and hot meals.

Getting there and seasonal island hopping

The ferry from Værlandet to the mainland and the municipal centre of Askvoll takes about an hour and also calls at Fure in Fjaler. The Askvoll–Fure–Værlandet connection is coordinated with express boats from Bergen, Sogn, Måløy and Florø. Joker Værlandet is located by the ferry quay. A bicycle rented there can be returned at either Joker Værlandet or Joker Bulandet, regardless of where it was collected.

In summer, it is possible to island-hop by post boat from Solund via Bulandet to Værlandet. The seasonal route runs to Bulandet and Værlandet from mid-June to mid-August; passengers can disembark on Værlandet and explore the islands independently.

More places to discover: Korssund, Holmedal, Atløy, Bulandet, Askvoll, Stongfjorden, Kvammen.

Return to the main travel overview: Askvoll.