The Norwegian Scenic Route Helgelandskysten and the coastal route Kystriksveien both run along the same coastline in Northern Norway. This road trip has previously been rated as one of the 101 most scenic drives in the world, by National Geographic.
Scenic Route Helgelandskysten and Kystriksveien
Embark on one of the world's most stunning road trips!
The stretch along the Helgeland coast is known as one of the most beautiful of the 18 Norwegian Scenic Routes.
Follow the coastal road
The Kystriksvegen coastal route runs between Steinkjer and Bodø, and is about 650 kilometres long. The Scenic Route starts a bit later at Holm and runs 433 kilometres along the same roads up to Godøystraumen, just before Bodø.
It's a beautiful route that passes mountains, islands and famous landmarks. Explore Norwegian nature and find plenty of fun activities along the way. There are also several ferry crossings from start to finish.
You can drive the whole of Kystriksveien in two days. But it would be a pity to not spend more time there. You need at least five to seven days. That will give you enough time to explore some of the islands.
It will take you about 2 hours to drive from Trondheim to Steinkjer, and you can easily fly to Trondheim airport and rent a car there. If you want to start in the north, you can fly to Bodø and rent a car there.
You can book plane tickets with Norwegian, Widerøe, or SAS.
Starting from the south, head to Steinkjer for the start of the Coastal Route Kystriksveien. Here you can learn more about the local history at Egge Museum.
Then drive for about an hour to Namsos. Several famous Norwegian rock artists come from here, and you can visit the Rock City experience centre.
Enjoy driving along the coast for about an hour and a half towards Kolvereid. From here you can take a 20 minute detour to The Coastal Museum in Rørvik, for a bit of maritime history.
From Kolvereid, it takes about an hour to drive to Holm, where the Scenic Route Helgelandskysten starts.
Just before Holm, you can embark on another detour. Hop on a ferry from Gutvik to the island of Leka. The nature here is truly special with its red rock landscape. Fun fact: The island is actually a little piece of North America that was left behind 60 million years ago!
Where to stay and what to do
Find a place on Leka for a night or two, and things to do!
Book nowLekaModern cottage on Leka island
Modern cottage with sea view on Leka for rent. The cabin was completed in August 2021 and is state-of-the-art furnished with everything you need. 3 bedrooms with room for 8 people. The cabin has a fully equipped kitchen, internet, TV with TV package. The view towards the world heritage Vega and the sunsets in the sea is unbeatable. The cabin is located alone, with no view from neighbours, and is a great starting point whether you just want to enjoy the silence, go for a walk on one of the many hiking trails on Leka, rent the host's boat or kayak or go for a bike ride to see the famous Ørnerovet. Guests can also play disc golf/freesbee golf at the cabin. Booking here: AirBnB.no It is also possible to order through finn.no here. Here, we know that everyone will enjoy themselves. Welcome!
To get even closer to nature, you can travel on two wheels.
On the Namdal coast and the Helgeland coast, you can rent a bike and go island hopping by speedboat or ferry. Kystriksveien Reiseliv and Visit Helgeland offer complete cycling packages.
Get ready for the first of several ferries, from Holm to Vennesund. It only takes about 15 minutes, so it's perfect for a quick break along the way.
All the Scenic routes provide very special rest stops along the way, such as Sundshopen with its stone jetty that extends into the water. It's an 8 kilometre drive from the Vennesund ferry port.
Then, 36 kilometres further on, is Trælvikosen. Instead of a jetty, there are 55 stepping stones leading to a small islet (pictured). The tide decides when they're submerged, demonstrating the shifts of nature.
The coastal town Brønnøysund is just a 10 minute drive away.
From here, you can either drive or rent a bike to get to Torghatten, the most distinctive mountain in this part of the country.
As you can see, there’s a hole right in the middle of it, and you can even hike through it!
Go back to Brønnøysund and head 14 kilometres north to Horn. Here you'll have two options. You can follow the scenic route and take a ferry to Andalsvågen, followed by a short drive and another ferry from Forvik to Tjøtta.
Option two is a detour to the Vega Islands. Just take the ferry directly from Horn.
The archipelago is on UNESCO’s prestigious World Heritage list, due to its unique eider down harvesting.
It's also great for adventures in the great outdoors, such as the Vegatrappa path, that takes you to the top of Mount Ravnfloget in 2000 steps.
Where to stay and eat
Find the perfect place for a night or two in Brønnøysund and Vega, and nice places to eat!
Book nowBrønnøysundHildurs 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.
Book nowBrønnøysundCorner Hotel
Corner Hotel – Hotel in the center of Brønnøysund, a coastal town in the middle of Norway! Corner Hotel offers affordable accommodation in close proximity to Norway’s perhaps most beautiful coastal stretch. Vega world herritage area is only a 25 minute boat ride away. The motel is perfect for those who want adventure and activity when visiting Helgeland.
Book nowBrønnøysundBrønnøysund Overnatting – accommodation in the heart of town
Did you know there is cosy accommodation available within walking distance of the airport as well as the heart of Brønnøysund? It’s ideally situated with its proximity to good outdoor recreation areas, as well as the many excellent cafés and restaurants in this coastal town.
Book nowVegaSavory farm food from Vega
At Stavsmarken Gård you will find a small farm shop with delicious homemade cured meats and meat products. You can also visit the café, which is open during the summer, where you can taste all the good things the farm has to offer or order a picnic basket to enjoy outdoors.
Things to do
Explore Brønnøysund, Vega and the surrounding area.
Book nowBrønnøysundBike the Coast of Helgland in Northern Norway | Discover Norway
Breathtaking landscapes, with dramatic coastal cliffs, picturesque islands, and serene fjords that together create a captivating blend of natural beauty. Island Hopping by Bike in Northern Norway, is the perfect coastal adventure.- Book nowBrønnøysund
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. 
Book nowVegaVega World Heritage Centre
The Vega World Heritage Centre, which is beautifully located at Gardsøy, documents the history and culture of the Vega islanders. Here you can gain fascinating insights into the lives of these fishermen-farmers, and about their centuries-old local tradition of protecting the eider ducks who come to nest here – a tradition that led to Vega being granted UNESCO’s World Heritage status.
Book nowVegaEider ducks, luxurious down and the bird guardians of Lånan
The unique tradition of bird guardianship and eiderdown harvesting kept alive on the island community of Lånan is the main reason why the Vega Archipelago was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2004. In June and July, visitors can travel out to this remote island cluster and experience first-hand the close and carefully balanced relationship between people and eider ducks.
Book nowBrønnøysundA RIB sea-rafting trip around Torghatten
Sea Adventure Helgeland offers to take you on an unforgettable RIB voyage around Torghatten, the legendary mountain with a hole through it. We will explore part of Helgeland’s magnificent coastal archipelago. The voyage is also an opportunity to see the birdlife and the coastal culture of Brønnøy up close.
You can also reach Tjøtta from Vega and continue to follow both the Scenic and Coastal routes from there. The ferry takes just over an hour as it passes breathtaking scenery.
Drive from Tjøtta for 20 kilometres to Alstahaug.
In Alstahaug, make sure to visit the modern museum dedicated to Peter Dass, a local Lutheran minister and beloved Norwegian poet.
Next to the museum lies the beautiful medieval Alstahaug Church where Dass was a minister in the late 1600s.
Alstahuag is also the home of The Seven Sisters mountains. These famous mountains can be enjoyed from afar (pictured) from the adventure islands Dønna and Herøy, or you can park and hike up to one or more of the peaks.
Then head back to the main road and drive for about 15 kilometres to Sandnessjøen. Explore this cosy coastal town and use it as a base for some serious island hopping.
There are several islands that can be reached by express boats, but make sure you check timetables in advance on entur.no or the Entur app.
Visit the Træna archipelago, where you'll see one of Norway's oldest fishing villages. The boat takes a few hours and gives you a taste of the remote island life.
Træna is probably most famous for the Træna Music Festival that happens every July.
You can even spend the night at one of Norway's most unique resorts. Ytri Island Retreat offers 38 rooms and suites, a bar, a seafood restaurant, saunas, and an outdoor wellness area.
On the neighbouring island of Lovund, you can spend the night in a modern design hotel or at one of the small, charming fisherman’s cabins by the sea.
Another island worth visiting is Myken, with its 12 inhabitants and a whisky cathedral.
Places to stay
Explore the islands and area around Sandnessjøen with these fun activities!
Book nowFjällnäs Est 1882 - Hotel
Fjällnäs is a private mountain reserve with hotel, a non-denominational Chapel and Mii Gullo SPA with hot tub, sauna and relax. It is a sanctuary and a place to experience the magnificent beauty of the mountain world at close hand. The resort´s facilities and accommodation possibilities are characterized by architecture in tune with the surroundings, solid craftsmanship, and natural materials reflecting the values of nature.
Book nowDønnes Skolestua - Accommodation and RV parking
In 1922, the old schoolhouse was built to provide a safe and warm shelter for children who had a long way home. Now, a hundred years later, it welcomes those who wish to experience the tranquility and beautiful nature in the northern part of Dønna, right on the Helgeland coast.
Book nowPlahtes Eiendommer - Fishing, hunting and wilderness adventures
Welcome to fishing, hunting and wilderness adventures on one of the largest private estates in Norway. Plahtes Eiendommer covers 650 km2 of magnificent wilderness in southern Helgeland. Plahtes takes great pride in its environmentally conscious management of its wilderness, as well as the cabins, boats and other facilities that ensure our guests a truly memorable wilderness adventure.
Book nowIsland Hopping in Northern Norway
Hvitserk of Norway is part of a research-project developing new and exciting experiences for travelers – and this is the first itinerary. On this tour, we will travel with transportation that is already a standard in Norway, reducing our impact on the environment we aim to conserve. It gives travelers a unique opportunity to visit and meet the locals on the rugged and fascinating islands south of Bodø and off the Helgeland Coast. These islands are far less visited than the Lofoten Islands, more remote – yet equally dramatic and stunning. If you want to explore Norway in an intimate setting, with real local culture away from the tourist hotspots, this is the tour for you.
Book nowFurøy Camping by the Svartisen glacier
Furøy Camping is conveniently located near the coastal route «National Tourist Route Helgeland Coast», in the northern parts of the coast, with close proximity to the Svartisen glacier. The campsite offers cabins and spaces for motorhomes, caravans, and tents.
Book nowNesnaBeer Tasting and Brewery Tour at Raus Bryggeri
Raus Brewery is located at the ferry terminal at Nesna. Here you can take a tour and taste the beer, and have a cold soda or beer inside the brewery’s bar or on the outdoor terrace. And you can shop for your way on in the brewery’s own beer and soda outlet.
Book nowTjøttaOffersøy Camping - Accommodation with boat and bike rental
With Offersøy Camping as your holiday base, you can easily explore the islands of your choice along the Helgeland coast. You can island hop by kayak, or by bringing your bicycle on the express boat or ferry so you can explore various islands on two wheels. Either way, it’s a delightful way to immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage and feel close to the magnificent landscape and natural elements.
Book nowSelværNerstua Guesthouse- accommodation on Selvær in Træna
In the charming house Nerstua, on Selvær — at the outer edge of the Helgeland coast — you’ll find peace and a place to truly unwind. In this special island community, you can stay close to nature and the sea, and rest well between your big and small adventures.
Book nowKorgen Camping – An idyll by the Røssåga river
Korgen Camping is idyllically situated on the river Røssåga, which since time immemorial has provided excellent salmon fishing. The campsite offers a tranquil family-friendly holiday stay. Situated midway between the towns of Mosjøen and Mo i Rana, the site is secluded from highway E6.
Things to do
Explore the islands and area around Sandnessjøen with these fun activities!
Book nowTrænaArctic Freediving and kayaking in Træna
Dive below the surface and discover Træna’s beautiful underwater landscapes. In crystal-clear waters, among forests of kelp and sandy seabeds, you’ll encounter vibrant marine life — schools of fish weaving through the kelp, scallops and flatfish resting on the sand, and much more. Whether you want to freedive, snorkel, or paddle between the islands, you’ll find both equipment and experiences available at Kranberget on Husøy.
Book nowDønnaBrygga - Dønna
"Brygga" is nicely located in quiet surroundings on the north-eastern side of Dønna, 7 km from the ferry terminal at Bjørn. The wharf consists of 5 apartments of 60 square meters each located right next to the sea. They also offera a conference room, boathouse, grill, hot tub and a cabin (Rorbu).
Book nowSelværTræna Arctic Fishing
Selvær, the second-biggest island of the Træna archipelago, is a quiet and cosy fishing community. Like the rest of Træna, it faces the open sea and lies far from the mainland. Here, you can stay in a modern quayside holiday apartment, and experience scenic Helgeland at its best. You will find excellent fishing, literally thousands of islets and skerries, amazing birdlife, and skies that glow late into the summer nights.
Back in Sandnessjøen, you'll continue north and cross the Helgeland Bridge just outside of town. The impressive bridge is 1065 metres long.
Continue for about 90 kilometres, including a ferry trip from Levang to Nesna, until you arrive at the Hellåga rest stop. Here you'll find one of many impressive toilets along the routes.
18,5 kilometres further along the road is where the Grønsvik Coastal Fort lies (pictured). It was was established by the German occupying power in 1942 and is now a museum that's free to visit.
Drive north for 22 kilometres to Kilboghavn, and take the one-hour ferry to Jektvik. Fun fact: You'll cross the Arctic Circle during the ferry trip and enter the land of the midnight sun.
At the port you'll find another interesting toilet, as the building lights up in the dark. It's also a waiting room.
From Jektvik, you can take a detour to the island of Rødøy. The island is about 5 kilometres long and easy to get around on foot, so leave your car in Jektvik and take the ferry over. It takes about an hour to get there.
Enjoy crystal clear waters, stunning beaches and beautiful hikes.
When you're back in Jektvik, drive about 42 kilometres to Braset rest stop. This includes the final ferry crossing along the routes, from Ågskardet to Forøy.
At Braset you can enjoy the view of Engabreen, a branch of the Svartisen glacier. It's Europe's lowest lying glacier! You can take a boat trip for a closer look, or go on a guided hike.
Things to do
Explore Rødøy, Svartisen and Meløy!
Book nowMykenMyken Bed and Soup
Myken is a small fishing community far from the mainland. The islands of this archipelago have no car traffic – in fact the main island has less than one kilometre of road. Myken invites you to experience its island scenery, the ever-changing sea, and the midnight sun.
Book nowGlomfjordRIB sea rafting trips with Meløy Adventure
You are invited to join Meløy Adventure on a RIB sea-rafting adventure to the island of Rødøya and Rødøyløva (443 m). Other great options include a sea-rafting safari to the remote island of Myken with a tour of its whiskey distillery. These excursions start from Ørnes in Meløy municipality – but for your convenience you can request to be picked up elsewhere en route.
Book nowStøttHansinestua and Hagland – accommodation in historic houses on Gjerøy
In the beautiful island kingdom of Rødøy municipality lies Gjerøy – a vibrant island with around 50 year-round residents, surrounded by the open sea and sheltered coves. Here, you can unwind, explore the coastal landscape, and stay in authentic, historic houses – each with its own character and view.
Book nowStøttSTØTT top of Helgeland
Støtt Old Trading Post, dating back to the 19th century, is authentic, offering a unique base for your Helgeland holiday. As your host, we take pride in offering you personal hospitality, a unique range of activities and adventures, charming and elegant accommodation, and memorable dining experiences that highlight the very best locally-sourced ingredients.
Book nowSelsøyvikAn idyllic Helgeland holiday on Rangsundøya
Just north of the Arctic Circle, in Rødøy municipality, lies Rangsundøya. At Helgelandsidyll on Rangsundøya, you stay in a glamping tent, apartment, or the "Eagle Dome." Rent a boat, kayak, or SUP and spend your days on the water or in the mountains of the island, and relax in the evenings in the sauna. Here, you can find peace and quiet, away from the crowds.
Book nowStøttStøtt in Meløy - Top of Helgeland
The picturesque old trading post of Støtt offers some of Helgeland’s most beautiful and unique holiday experiences. Many adventures await you here, and you can enjoy charming quarters and great dining in historic buildings steeped in the island’s ancient coastal heritage.
Book nowSelsøyvikSelsøyvik Trading Post in Rødøy
Selsøyvik Trading Post is one of Helgeland’s oldest and most esteemed accommodation options. The island of Selsøyvik is beautifully situated along the shipping lane, surrounded by Rødøyløva, Hestmannen, and Svartisen. Here you will find accommodation, a large and beautiful guest harbor, a general store, and a café.
Head north for about 26 kilometres from Braset through an about 7,6 kilometre long tunnel to Glomfjord. This is a great place for nature activities such as kayaking, hiking, and mountain biking.
Follow the road for 13 kilometres to Ureddplassen, where you will find this sleek rest stop with toilets. In fact, it has been named the world's most beautiful public toilet by The Telegraph.
Enjoy the panoramic view of the fjord and the Lofotveggen mountains in the distance.
Follow the coastline for about 8 kilometres to Storvika. This rest stop has a stone-vault bridge that takes you to a mile-long sandy beach. There are also toilet facilities here year-round.
Consider a detour to Sandhornøya island, where you can head to the stunning Langsanden beach.
Then head north for about 30 minutes to the world’s strongest maelstrom, Saltstraumen. Admire the mighty forces of nature at play.
Underneath the boiling surface, the marine life is incredibly rich, which is great for diving (with certified guides, only, as the currents are extremely strong).
About five kilometers down the road, you'll find the Godøystraumen rest stop, which also marks the end of the Scenic Route, or the start if you're going from north to south.
Have a seat and take a look at the powerful streams and the ocean beyond.
From Godøystrømmen, it only takes about 30 minutes to drive to the lively city of Bodø. This is also where the Coastal Route comes to an end.
Stay for a few days whether you're starting or ending the route here. It's a great city for nature, shopping, food, and football!
Explore Gildeskål
Find accommodation, places to eat and things to do.
Nice to know before you go
It's a long route with several ferry crossings and plenty of island hopping opportunities, so plan ahead when it comes to timetables for ferries and express boats. Make sure that you have plenty of time, as there can be long queues for the ferries during the summer months. The weather can also affect boat traffic.
Information for cyclists: Cycling is prohibited in the Svartis Tunnel. You have to take an alternative route or a ferry to get around it. There are also several other long tunnels you have to go through along this route.
If you plan to cycle the entire route, be aware that it's a long and challenging ride. It's naturally divided into smaller sections, making it easy to plan a cycle trip over several days. The southern part of the route is the easiest part. Here, you can buy cycling packages with bikes and accomodation, from Sandnessjøen or Brønnøysund, where you also can rent bicycles at the tourist information.
This cycle route is also part of the National Cycle Route 1 and the EuroVelo 1 «Atlantic Coast Route».
Source: Norwegian Scenic Routes
Getting here and around
Plan your trip to Kystriksveien with Entur, Norway's official travel planner.
Local transport
You can travel Kystriksveien by busses, express boats and ferries.
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By train
The Nordland Line from Trondheim stops at several stations between Steinkjer and Bodø.
By boat
From Lofoten, you can take the ferry from Moskenes to Bodø and drive eastwards to the Fv17 motorway.
An extensive network of express boats, as well as the coastal express Hurtigruten, take you to many destinations along the Coastal Route.
On the Kystriksveien itself, you’ll make six ferry crossings. Reservations are not necessary, but in the high season, you should arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure time.
By plane
Trondheim Airport is located 100 kilometres south of Steinkjer and has good domestic and international flight connections.
If you want to start in the north, Bodø Airport has good domestic flight connections.
You can also fly to the airports Namsos, Rørvik, Brønnøysund and Sandnessjøen.
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By car
From the south, exit the E6 a few kilometres north of Steinkjer, around 120 kilometres north of Trondheim.
From the north, exit the E6 at Fauske and head west on Rv80 to the Norwegian Scenic Route Helgelandskysten (Fv17).
Plan your route, check traffic alerts, ferry information and more on the Norwegian Roads Administration's website.
Norwegian Scenic Routes
Explore the most beautiful drives in Norway! Find out what to experience along the routes, including lesser-known gems, accommodation, and wonderful detours.
