A woman standing on a ferry looking at Kjerringøy, outside og Bodø in Northern Norway.

Salten

Natural therapy in its purest form

Steep mountains, national parks, fjords and fishing villages – in Salten, you get to experience spectacular nature without standing in line.

Hot tip: Get the most out of your visit and explore the whole coast with express boats and ferries!

A map of Norway with a red dot on Fauske in Northern Norway.
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The Salten district stretches from Helgeland in the south to Ofoten in the north. Bodø, located in the middle of Salten, is the biggest city in the district. Plan for a city break in Bodø before exploring the rest of the coastal gems in Salten – many easy reachable from the city centre.

You can tour the area by car, but express boats (many with their starting point in Bodø) are a beautiful way of exploring the many coastal gems.

One of the absolute highlights is Saltfjellet, where you can cross the Arctic Circle, the islands and coastal villages Steigen and Hammarøy, with many unique accommodation options.

Find inspiration below, or go directly to:

A couple walking towards Tranøy Fyr in Salten, Northern Norway
Nordskot brygge during summer in Steigen, Northern Norway
Manshausen island drone view
Northern lights over Naustholmen houses.

The main city in Salten is Northern Norway’s mini metropolis Bodø, which was a European Capital of Culture in 2024.

The city is both Salten’s urban hub and a natural starting point for exploring the rest of the region.

Make the most of highlights like Kulturkvartalet Stormen, a cultural centre with a library and a concert hall, and sample heavenly confectionery at Craig Alibone.

The idyllic Kjerringøy trading post and the world's strongest maelstrom Saltstraumen are also within easy reach, making perfect day trips from Bodø.

Furthest north in Salten, at Tranøy, you can treat yourself to an overnight stay in a lighthouse.

At Tranøy lighthouse, you have an undisturbed view of the Vestfjord and the craggy mountains in Lofoten. The sound of crashing waves is the only lullaby you need!

About 20 minutes south-east lies Hamarøy, where Knut Hamsun lived for many years. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in literature in 1920. Many of his novels, including Pan, Wayfarers, and The Growth of the Soil were inspired by the surrounding landscapes.

The Hamsun Centre provides fascinating insight into the author’s life as well as wonderful views of the area known as 'the Realm of Hamsun'.

North of Bodø, you’ll also find Steigen, an area with spectacular peaks and idyllic sandy beaches such as Bøsanden and Brennviksanden.

Relax by the coast, hike in the mountains, explore the cultural landscape on the historic island of Engeløya ...

… and spend the night in one of Norway’s most unique holiday lodgings.

In 2016, the modern sea cabins at Manshausen received four awards at the A+ Awards, also known as the Oscars of architecture.

There are several other unique accommodation options nearby, including the boutique hotel Villa Haugen and Naustholmen, where the adventurer, author and paddling queen Randi Skaug lives.

Enjoy fishing and boat trips, sauna visits, fresh seafood – and a slow and relaxing pace!

Where to stay

Book comfy hotels or cosy cabins. Find your home away from home.

  • Arnøy Brygge
    Nordarnøy

    Arnøy Brygge

    This idyllic island offers a great restaurant, traditional accommodation in "rorbu" and have boats and equipments for rent if you like fishing. If you are in Gildeskål, be sure to visit this place.
    Book now
    Beiarn kro and Hotel
    Moldjord

    Beiarn kro and Hotel

    Welcome to Beiarn Inn. We are located at Storjord and offer accommodation and dining - a perfect base to experience Beiarn.
    Bodø hotell
    Bodø

    Bodø hotell

    Bodø Hotel is a small, cosy hotel with a pleasant atmosphere where guests enjoy their stay. Our 31 rooms have parquet flooring and are tastefully furnished with easy chairs or sofas.
    Book now
    Comfort Hotel Bodø
    Bodø

    Comfort Hotel Bodø

    In the middle of Bodø you will find Comfort Hotel. The hotel is a “rock throw” away from everything you need, from nightlife to shopping and also to the concert arena “Stormen”.
    Book now
    Følvika - a northern retreat
    Sandhornøy

    FØLVIKA NORTHERN RETREAT

    An idyllic place on the island Sandhornøya. A view of the shipping lane and two beaches surrounds this place which is perfect for those seeking tranquility. Accommodation in exclusive domes, Følvika Eye and Følvika Eagle Eye, right by the sea and with 360 degrees view.
    Følvika Northern Retreat
    Sandhornøy

    Følvika Northern Retreat

    Travel business that offers cosy accommodation, delicious home made cooking and outdoor activities at Sandhornøya.
    Book now
    Følvika Northern Retreat
    Sandhornøy

    Følvika Northern Retreat

    An idyllic place on a peninsula on the Sandhorn island in Gildeskål municipality. Overlooking the shipping lane and two sandy beaches, this place is perfect for those seeking tranquility. You stay in a double room or an exclusive dome.
    Geitvågen Bad & Camping
    Bodø

    Geitvågen Bad & Camping

    Geitvågen Bad & Camping has cabins and caravan / motorhome / tent / hammock pitches and is located in a scenic area, with a midnight sun view and a salt water bath which is naturally heated.
    Book now
    Helnessund Brygger
    Leines

    Helnessund Brygger

    Experience a genuine fishermans village along one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.
    Book now
    Home Hotel Grand Bodø
    Bodø

    Home Hotel Grand Bodø

    You will find a prominent part of the regions’ heritage located right in the centre of Bodø. Clarion Collection Grand Hotel is located only minutes from everything the city has to offer, including bars, restaurants, museums and the iconic breakwater.
    Book now
    Home Hotel Grand Bodø
    Bodø

    Home Hotel Grand Bodø

    You will find a prominent part of the regions’ heritage located right in the centre of Bodø. Clarion Collection Grand Hotel is located only minutes from everything the city has to offer, including bars, restaurants, museums and the iconic breakwater.
    Book now
    Kjerringøy Bryggehotel
    Kjerringøy

    Kjerringøy Bryggehotel

    Hi. Welcome to Kjerringøy Bryggehotell, a nice and modern hotel in scenic Kjerringøy and a short walk from Kjerringøy Old Tradingpost.
    Kjerringøy Rorbusenter
    Kjerringøy

    Kjerringøy Rorbusenter

    Enjoy relaxing days or a vacation packed with activites in a traditional norwegian "rorbu"!
    Book now
    Manshausen - Where sea and mountains meet
    Leinesfjord

    Manshausen - Where sea and mountains meet

    In our award-winning seaside cabins, you can enjoy the feeling of being close to nature while staying warm and comfortable behind the large glass windows.
    Book now
    Naustholmen Adventure Island
    Leinesfjord

    Naustholmen Adventure Island

    A peaceful place in a troubled world.
    Book now
    Nordnes Kro & Camping
    Røkland

    Nordnes Kro & Camping

    Nordnes Kro and Camping is located in the lush Saltdal, right by E6 and Saltdalselva, a 1.5-hour drive from Bodø. Here, you'll find a modern campsite and a uniquely charming roadside inn.
    Book now
    Nordskot brygge
    Leinesfjord

    Nordskot brygge

    Nordskot Brygge is a modern, high-quality sea sports center located in the idyllic Nordskot in Steigen. Situated perfectly at the quayside, we embrace you with panoramic views towards Lofoten, Grøtøy, the shipping lane, and the majestic Skotstindene mountains.
    Book now
    Opsahl Gjestegaard
    Bodø

    Opsahl Gjestegaard

    Opsahl Gjestegaard is a venerable guesthouse, centrally located near the center of Bodø. If you are looking for a place with soul build on the history of Bodø, this is be the place for your visit. It is easy to get to the guesthouse from the airport, train station, ferries and express boats. We are the closest neighbor to the Hospital, and it is a short walk to the bus stop.
    Book now
    Quality Hotel Ramsalt
    Bodø

    Quality Hotel Ramsalt

    Quality Hotel Ramsalt is one of the newest hotels in the city center of Bodø, with walking distance to the train station, shopping opportunities and cultural- and city life.
    Book now
    Saltstraumen Camping
    Saltstraumen

    Saltstraumen Camping

    Fantastic countryside and wonderful hiking terrain by the world’s strongest maelstrom.
    Book now
    Saltstraumen Hotel
    Saltstraumen

    Saltstraumen Hotel

    You will get a good nights sleep as our guest, in quiet, peaceful surroundings with clean, fresh air and fantastic nature just outside your window.
    Saltstraumen hotel and cabins
    Saltstraumen

    Saltstraumen hotel and cabins

    Saltstraumen hotel is right next to the Maelstrom, Saltstraumen.
    Book now
    Saltstraumen hotell AS
    Saltstraumen

    Saltstraumen hotell AS

    Saltstraumen Hotel has consolidated its position as one of the leading meeting and conference hotels in Bodø.
    Scandic Bodø
    Bodø

    Scandic Bodø

    This town centre hotel is situated by the harbour, 200 metres from Bodø Railway Station. Some of the rooms at Scandic Bodø have sea views. Perhaps you will be lucky and see one of Northern Norway’s majestic white-tailed eagles fly past.
    Book now
    Scandic Havet
    Bodø

    Scandic Havet

    Right on the waterfront in the heart of Bodø city center, you'll find Scandic Havet, an eco-labeled experience hotel and the largest conference hotel in Northern Norway. You don’t have to go far up the floors before you get a spectacular view of the city, the sea, and the mountains surrounding Bodø. On clear days, you can see all the way to Svartisen and Lofoten from the hotel's upper floors.
    Book now
    Skagen Hotel
    Bodø

    Skagen Hotel

    We wish everyone a warm welcome to a unique, first-class hotel with excellent service and genuine North Norwegian hospitality. With our quiet yet central location, you will, as our guest, have the perfect starting point for your visit to Bodø.
    Book now
    Skogvokterboligen
    Røkland

    Skogvokterboligen

    The venerable Skogvoktergården is located at Storjord in Saltdal. The farm is idyllically located where the two rivers, Junkerdalselva and Saltdalselva, are meeting.
    Book now
    Smarthotel Bodø
    Bodø

    Smarthotel Bodø

    In September 2022 we opened our new street-art hotel in Bodø. With its central location you can combine urban city-life with magical nature experiences.
    Book now
    Storviksanden Camping
    Storvik

    Storviksanden Camping

    Storviksanden Camping is a brand new camping site along Kystriksveien in Gildeskål. This is primarily a camping site for caravans, but also offers tent sites.
    Sámi Safari Camp - Close to nature, yourself and Sami culture
    Drag

    Sámi Safari Camp - Close to nature, yourself and Sami culture

    The circle of life - Everything is connected. Nature is the center of Sámi spirituality and humans are an integral part of nature, with a personal relationship with everything that lives and is there.
    Book now
Find more places to stay
People hiking in the Rago National Park in Salten, Northern Norway
Restroom Ureddplassen, Norwegian Scenic Route Helgelandskysten in Northern Norway
Northern lights at polarsirkelen in Saltfjellet, Salten, Northern Norway
A woman walking over a hanging brigde, Salten.
A man holding up two big cod on a boat outside of Bodø in Northern Norway

You’re also guaranteed a welcome break from the digital buzz of everyday life in Salten’s national parks.

Rago in Sørfold (pictured) offers rugged wilderness, while Láhko and Junkerdal are top tips if you’re up for a fishing trip to a lake or river. Sjunkhatten has several hiking trails and barbecue spots and is ideal for families with children.

If you're exploring the region by car, visit one of the world's finest public toilets. Seriously!

Many people come to Salten by car, and the last stretch of the Scenic Route Kystriksveien runs through the region. Ureddplassen in Gildeskål makes a great stop when nature calls, but also if you want to snap some photos of grand views.

If you drive from the south on the E6 across Saltfjellet towards Fauske or the skiing paradise Sulitjelma, crossing the Arctic Circle is definitely a highlight. Maybe you’ll get to see the northern lights!

Another tip is to stop at the Nordland National Park Center in Saltdal. It's also the starting point for a visit to the unique nature reserve Junkerdalsura.

Test your fishing luck in the Saltdalselva river. If you’re interested in river fishing, you really must check out Beiarelva. Located in Beiarn west of Saltdal, it is one of Norway’s top salmon fishing rivers (license required).

If sea fishing is more your style, you have every chance to give it a go along the coast of Salten. Visit in winter, and you might catch a skrei (migrating cod) on your hook!

Top things to do

Don't miss these highlights.

  • The Hamsun Centre museum
    Hamarøy

    The Hamsun Centre museum

    The Hamsun Centre is located by the vicarage ruins on the banks of the Glimma River in Presteid in Hamarøy Municipality in Northern Norway
    RIB to Saltstraumen with Sea Eagle Safari - Explore Salten

    RIB to Saltstraumen with Sea Eagle Safari - Explore Salten

    Experience the force of the world's strongest tidal current – Saltstraumen. Explore Salten takes you and your group out in a RIB boat when the current is at its strongest. Get ready for a wild experience!
    Book now
    Láhko National Park
    Røkland

    Láhko National Park

    Láhko is Sami and means "high-lying, vast expanse". This is one of the really exciting national parks in the country. If you do not think that geology is particularly interesting, you will be convinced of the opposite when you enter the karst landscape in Láhko. Karst are geological landscape formations formed through the water's dissolution of limestone marble.
    Junkerdal National Park
    Røkland

    Junkerdal National Park

    In Junkerdal National Park, you will find expansive mountain plateaus, steep mountain peaks, long lush valleys, a rich flora, well-marked paths and several places to stay. In other words, there is something to suit every taste!
    Stormen Concert Hall
    Bodø

    Stormen Concert Hall

    The concert halls world-class acoustics ensure optimal conditions for classical masterpieces, pop/rock shows, theatre, dance and conferences.
    Book now
    Nordland Nationalpark Center
    Røkland

    Nordland Nationalpark Center

    Nordland National Park Centre is a natural stop just north of the Arctic Circle. In beautiful architecture and scenic surroundings, you’ll find the Adde Zetterquist Art Gallery and the Nordland National Park Visitor Centre — together forming a unique experience centre that combines art and nature.
    RIB-safari in Saltstraumen - Stella Polaris

    RIB-safari in Saltstraumen - Stella Polaris

    A must-do in Bodø!
    Book now
    Sjunkhatten/Dávga National Park – the children’s national park
    Røkland

    Sjunkhatten/Dávga National Park – the children’s national park

    The landscape in Sjunkhatten National Park is wild and varied and stretches from the fjord to the mountains. You will find pointed peaks, cascading rivers and a gentle landscape combining valleys, lakes and rounded mountains. Sjunkhatten is easily accessible and within walking distance from Nordland’s densest populated region including Bodø and Fauske. You can even reach the national park on foot or by bike from the airport, train station and express boat quay!
    Viewpoint at Ureddplassen
    Storvik

    Viewpoint at Ureddplassen

    The Uredd Memorial rest area is one of the Nordland coast’s very best places from which to observe both the archipelago and the midnight sun. Ureddplassen is a point of interest along the National Scenic Road Helgelandskysten.
Find more activities and attractions
The Arctic hideaway Fleinvær in Salten, Northern Norway
People kayaking in winter landscape.
A person looking at the view from a mountain with orange sky.

"I want to move here!"

You can! At least for a few nights.

The Arctic Hideaway on the small island of Fleinvær south-west of Bodø, is just one of several wonderful places you can wake up in while exploring Salten’s diverse coastline.

Don't miss the municipalities of Gildeskål, Meløy, and Rødøy, which are all magical places to go island hopping.

Here, in the southern part of Salten, it is easy to get to fishing villages and island gems such as Støtt (pictured), Bolga and Sør-Arnøy by speedboat from Bodø and other places along the coast.

Boat trips also provide an affordable sightseeing option.

Salten is fantastic all year round. Simply choose what you want to experience most!

Getting here and around

Plan your trip to Bodø and Salten with Entur, Norway's official travel planner.

  • By plane

    Bodø Airport is located 2 kilometres from the city centre. The airport bus has many daily departures and covers the distance in about 5 minutes. A flight from Oslo to Bodø takes 1 hour and 20 minutes.

    Transfer in Bodø for your trip to the Lofoten Islands.

    Ad: Norwegian – cheap flights in Norway and direct flights from more than 70 European airports

    By train

    There are daily train connections between Trondheim and Bodø. The trip takes about 10 hours.

    Ad: Check out Vy’s website for prices and timetables

    By road

    Rv. 80 links Bodø to the E6, the main road through Norway.

    Another alternative is the Coastal Route Rv. 17, which hugs the coast a few kilometres to the west and takes you all the way to Trondheim. Note that there are several ferry crossings on this route.

    Ad: Auto Europe – always a smooth rental experience

    By ferry

    The Norwegian coastal express Hurtigruten calls at Bodø twice a day.

    Fast passenger boats and car ferries take you from Bodø to several ports in the Lofoten Islands and along the Helgeland coast.

    Ad: Hurtigruten – the world’s most beautiful sea voyage

    Local travel

    A bus network takes you around the city and municipality of Bodø.

Important information about winter driving in Norway

If you are going to drive in Norway in the cold season (October–April) you and your car need to be prepared before you hit the road. Icy, slippery roads, snow, darkness, and poor visibility can make driving challenging at this time of year and it's important to know how to prepare:

How to drive in Norway in winter conditions

Discover more

Midnight sun in Bodø, Northern Norway
Bodø
Woman drinking water from a river, Hemsedal, Norway.
Travel better
Manshausen island drone view
An island escape that says WOW!
  • Plan your trip to Bodø and Salten in Northern Norway and visit Saltstraumen
    Saltstraumen – The world’s strongest maelstrom
    A person watching the midnight sun at Senja in Northern Norway
    Midnight sun
    The globe marking the Arctic Circle in Tonnes at Rødøy, Norway.
    The Arctic Circle

Take advantage of top offers

See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.

  • Food - Brim Explorer
    Brim ExplorerQuiet fjord tours on award-winning electric catamarans in Oslo, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Svalbard.
    Performancce Marketing
    CityboxModern and affordable hotels in central locations in Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand.
    Blazerbu - Norgesbooking
    NorgesbookingBook your perfect cabin stay in the fjords, mountains, and valleys of Norway.
    Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel in Oslo, Eastern Norway
    Scandic HotelsExperience Nordic hotel hospitality at its finest at more than 90 hotels across Norway. Special offers are available.
    The Thief - A lifestyle boutique hotel in Oslo
    StrawberryA different hotel company! Look out for great weekend deals at more than 100 hotels in Norway.
    Standard Room - Svolvær - Thon Hotel
    Thon Hotels ASFantastic breakfast included! Experience true comfort and reasonable rates at our 80 hotels in Norway.
    Valevåg Camping
    CampcationBook a camping stay in stunning and unique locations all across Norway with Campcation.
    Hotell Refsnes Gods - fasade
    Classic Norway HotelsWhen the hotel is the destination. Book a night to remember in one of Norway's most unique and distinctive hotels.
    Two people sitting in a sofa in Eagle Nest Eco Lodge in Eastern Norway
    50 Degrees North NordicChoose between unforgettable tailormade individual trips and small, exclusive group tours of Norway.
    Family in outdoor pool in winter at Radisson Blu mountain resort & residences in Trysil, Eastern Norway
    Radisson HotelsGreat value offers and comfortable quality stays in Norway´s major cities, airports, and ski resorts.
    Hardangerfjord - Authentic Scandinavia
    Authentic ScandinaviaTravel curated by locals. Our tailormade tours suit every type of traveller and budget.
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    Booknordics.comUnique holiday packages, adventure hotels, tours, and activities.
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    Fjord ToursHome of Norway in a Nutshell, Norway's most popular tour. Fjords, mountains, and stunning destinations — all in one trip!
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    Go FjordsBook fantastic tours and experiences! We offer tours in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Lofoten, the North Cape, and more.
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    HurtigrutenExperience the world's most beautiful sea voyage on an unforgettable cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast.
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    Norrøna AdventureGet ready for expeditions and adventure holidays with Norrøna Adventure. Hiking, skiing, and biking trips.
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    Discover NorwayOffers a range of exciting self-guided hiking, biking, and skiing holidays in Norway. Luggage transfer included.
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    Norwegian HolidaysLow-price package holidays with Norwegian. Book your flight, hotel, and rental car all in one place.
    Hop on hop off bus - Stromma
    StrömmaSightseeing by bus and boat in several major tourist spots and cities in Norway.
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    Up NorwayBespoke luxury hand-picked by local experts. We combine your preferences and our knowledge to make an unforgettable journey.
    Aurora borealis Tromso - Fjord Travel
    Fjord Travel NorwaySleep in an ice hotel, hunt the northern lights, and discover the magical fjords. Book your tour now!
    Woodward - Arctic Campers
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    Auto Europe
    Auto EuropeAlways a smooth car rental experience. Search and compare rental rates. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to pick-up.
    Buss bilde - NOR-WAY
    NOR-WAY BussekspressEnjoy scenic views on comfortable bus trips to the fjords and from city to city with our express buses.
    Raumabanen - SJ Nord
    SJ NordSJ NORD - the adventure starts on the train
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    Vy expressDiscover Norway on comfortable express buses that take you between major cities, mountains, and fjords.
    Vy Train travelling on a scenic railway line between Bergen and Hønefoss, Norway
    Vy TrainGlide through scenery on a train between Oslo and Bergen on the Bergen Railway and explore the greater Oslo region.
    Van 4 - Cabin Campers
    Cabin CampersExperience the road trip of a lifetime with our cabins on four wheels.
    Malangen resort - My nordic travel
    My Nordic TravelChoose between DIY itineraries and pre-packaged holidays to the very best destinations in Norway.
    Campanyon - Arctic Dome Smiberget
    CampanyonUnique camping in nature. Book a stay in a treehouse or glamping tent or rent a motorhome pitch.
    Airplane
    NorwegianNorwegian offers cheap flights in Norway and direct flights from more than 70 European destinations. Book flights through our low fare calendar to your destinations.
    Elegant wooden hotel in mountain valley beneath snow-capped peaks.
    De HistoriskeHave an unforgettable stay at one of Norway's unique, authentic historic hotels. Enjoy first-class dining experiences and a broad range of activities.
    A woman hiking in the summer mountains by the fjord.
    CampioNorway's biggest camping booking site. Find the best camping and motorhome pitches throughout Norway.
    Two women waving out the windows of a campervan with Benzini Campers on the hood
    Benzini CampersThe adventure of your life starts here. Book a campervan with Benzini Campers now.