Vesterålen Guide 2014 - ENGLISH

Page 1

Eng

TRAVEL GUIDE 2014

vester책len


Welcome to

Vesterålen Winter has become the new summer. It is not for nothing that research into the Northern Lights is based in Andenes. Along with activities connected with the Northern Lights, there is a varied winter programme on offer in Vesterålen.

ANDØY

ØKSNES

At the same time, Vesterålen is also experiencing a growth in tourism during the summer season. Nature-based activities are much sought after with whale safaris being most popular. There are also some of the best tourist fishing facilBØ ities in the country, and our hosts take pride in personal service and a varied programme of activities. The Arctic SORTLAND Race of Norway came to Vesterålen in 2013 and was a great success. Cycle tourism in the region is growing exponentially, and Vesterålen has become an attractive cycle destination. Early May to late August in Vesterålen is paradise for birdwatchers. Eagles can be seen all over the HADSEL region throughout the year. Vesterålen is made up of many islands that are ideal for boating, kayaking and diving. Vesterålen is also famous for spectacular hikes, including Dronningruta (The Queen’s Route) between Stø and Nyksund and the trip to Møysalen, the highest mountain in the region. Travelling to Vesterålen is now easier as Norwegian has a direct flight between Oslo and Andenes. Widerøe also has flights to Stokmarknes and LØDINGEN Andenes from Bodø and Tromsø. The airport bus at the airport in Evenes serves all SAS and Norwegian departures. Many people also travel on the Hurtigruten Coastal Express which makes three stops in Vesterålen. There is room for everyone in Vesterålen. Parking is free in towns and villages, and there are no queues or toll booths. This guide is not exhaustive, so we recommend that you check out our homepage at www.visitvesteralen.com for more detailed information. The regional tourist information office in Sortland is open all year round. Any queries about travel in Vesterålen can be sent to turistinfo@vestreg.no Online booking for featured offers is available at www.visitvesteralen.com. Welcome to Vesterålen!

Roy Odd Schøyen Director of Tourism

published by Vesterålen reiseliv - Kjøpmanns gt. 2 - 8400 Sortland (+47) 76 11 14 80 – turistinfo@vestreg.no – www.visitvesteralen.com Production • Number printed: 29.000 • Language: Norwegian, english, german (dutch and french versions available online) • Project manager: Astrid Berthinussen, Vesterålen reiseliv • Layout/Design: Tore Schöning Olsen, NordNorsk Reiseliv AS / Forretningstrykk AS • Printing: K. Nordahls Trykkeri AS • Cover photo: Mads Aanesen, Handstand at Bleiksstranda

Partners and networks Vesterålen reiseliv:

And¿y kommune VESTERÅLEN

And¿y kommune

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B¿ kommune kommune Hadsel kommune And¿y

sweden finland

Norway

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kingdom L¿dingen kommune ¯ksnes kommunegermany Hadsel kommune B¿ kommune And¿y Sortland kommune

poland

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Sortland kommune L¿dingen kommune Hadsel kommune B¿ kommune ¯ksnes kommune

www.visitvesteralen.com


CONTENTS Useful info 6

1

Travel to vesterålen

2

8 Accommodation

Adventures 12

FISHING AND BOATING

3

14

nature safari

4

16 NATURE TREKS

5

18

A Map of Vesterålen

6

20

WHALE SAFARI

7

24 PADDLING

8

26 CYCLING

9

28 CULTURE

10

30

A TASTE OF VESTERÅLEN

11

32

WINTER IN VESTERÅLEN

12

33 ON AN EXPLORATORY TRIP IN VESTERÅLEN

13

© Ma r ten Bri l - w w w.v isit vester alen.com

3


4

www.visitvesteralen.com

Š Ă˜ys t e in Lun d e In gval d s e n / w w w.n o rd n o r g e.co m


Did you know... We have two lighthouses that you can visit in Vesterålen — Litløy Lighthouse in Bø and Andenes Lighthouse in Andøy.

www.visitvesteralen.com

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© To rbj ørn Je n to rfts e n - w w w.vis it ve s t e rale n.co m

1

Travel to Vesterålen The trip to Vesterålen is an experience in itself, whether you travel by car, bus, plane, the coastal express, train or a combination of these.

ROUTE INFORMATION BUS, FERRY AND SPEED BOAT: www.177nordland.com – +47 75 77 24 10

Train: Oslo – Fauske www.nsb.no, Train through Sweden to Narvik: www.sj.se

VE ST VÅG ØY

Eggum

Your own car: E-6 through Norway, via Riksgrensen E-10 from Sweden. Ferries: www.177.no

Bus Narvik – Sortland: www.177nordland.no

Traffic and road information: www.vegvesen.no/Trafikkinformasjon/Reiseinformasjon/Trafikkmeldinger

Coastal Express: F LAKS TA D Bergen – Kirkenes www.hurtigruten.no Vikten (calls at Stokmarknes, Sortland and Risøyhamn. ) FLAKSTADØYA

Lek

The regional tourist office at Sortland will help youRamberg with your booking for the coastal express ship. Tel +47 76 11 14 80

M Balls

By plane: Oslo – Harstad/Narvik (Evenes): www.sas.no www.norwegian.com Bergen – Harstad/Narvik (Evenes): www.sas.no www.norwegian.com Stavanger – Harstad/Narvik (Evenes): www.sas.no www.norwegian.com Trondheim – Harstad/Narvik (Evenes): www.sas.no / www.norwegian.com Oslo – Andenes: www.norwegian.com Oslo – Bodø – Stokmarknes – Tromsø www.wideroe.no Oslo – Bodø – Andenes – Tromsø: www.wideroe.no Bus: Bus from Evenes to Sortland Airport bus Sortland –Skagen Fauske – Sortland Narvik – Sortland

M OS KEN ES

Unstad Mærvoll Uttakleiv E1 Haukland Gravdal

Nusfjord

Sund Distances in Vesterålen E 10 MOSKENESØYA Sortland – Kaljord 53 km Hamnøy Reine Melbu – Stokmarknes 16 km Stokmarknes – Sortland 28 km Moskenesvågen Sørvågen Sortland – Lødingen 58 km Å Lødingen – Øksneshamn 63 km Sortland – Andenes 101 km Mo Sortland – Stø 54 km skenstraumen Sortland – Nyksund V Æ R Ø52 Y km Sortland – Bø (Straume) 58 km Sortland – Hovden 69 km

www.flybussen.no/sortland/ www.boreal.no www.177nordland.no www.177nordland.no

VÆRØY

Sørland

Røst h

TOURIST INFORMATION g8

Vesterålen turistinformasjon

(+47) 76 11 14 80

Kjøpmannsgata 2, Sortland

avet

RØST

EMAIL/WEBSITE

SEASON

Røstlandet

turistinfo@vestreg.no www.visitvesteralen.com

01.01-31.12

RØS T

Skomvær RS

transport C8

g8

Bø Taxi Straume

Boreal Transport Nord AS Verkstedveien 4

Y OU S OAT NC D T LE E E BU B BI AG I S R ER S E L U MO T E TOM D W S RT R B R N I N I S E A A X I AV S A E-MAIL/TELEPHONE C A VA M B U C H C H TA T R C U Q U SNO

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post@botaxi.no (+47) 76 13 77 00 stig.karoliussen@boreal.no (+47) 95 19 27 81

SEASON

GIV

01.01-31.12 www.botaxi.no 01.01-31.12 www.boreal.no/booking

FLEINVÆR

6

www.visitvesteralen.com

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Andenes

Summer Fer

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Buksnes

Alsvåg

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Oppeid

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FINNØYA

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orde Sagfj

ENGELØYA

Bogøy

Holkestad Nordskot

Hurtigruten Innhavet Ferry 835 Express Boat Tømmernes Railway

V EUseful Infomation Leinesfjord No

Useful telephone numbersHelnessund The country code for telephone calls to Norway is + 47. To ring out ofBrennsund Norway, dial 00 + country code + number. Folda Time/route info for Nordland County: 177 If you ring from any area than Nordland, use telephone number (+47) 75 77 24 10 or go to: Kjerringøy www.177nordland.com 834

Hellemobotn

Recovery Services: Mørviksbotn NAF (Norwegian Automobile Federation). Emergency number in Norway: 08505 Bonnåsjøen

Viking S ØRecovery R F O L D Service Emergency number in Norway: 06000 Kobbelv From abroad – tel.: (+47) 22 08 60 00

Styrkesnes

Sørf old Falck Norway: a

FLEINA

Bodø

Mårnes Våg Nygårdsjøen Horsdal

Bjerkvik

E 10

Narvik

Kiru

Sk Spitsbergen jo m en

North Cape

N ARVI K

Tromsø

Lofoten

Alta

Kirkenes

Narvik

N

Bodø

Mo i Rana

VESTERÅLEN

TYS F JORD

Røsvik Emergency number in Norway: 02222 Landegode Call (+47) 175 for information mountain From abroad – tel.: (+47) 33 13 80 80 Misten about Festvåg passes, road and traffic conditions in Nordland/ RAGO VOKKØYA n SJUNKHATTEN e d HELLIGVÆRNorway. Also see: www.vegvesen.no NASJONALPARK Mjelle NASJONALPARK Driving LANDEGODE fjor 826 e Cars must have headlights switched on at all times. od Geitvågen eg Emergency telephone numbers: The drink-driving laws in Norway are strict. The d Straumen B O DØ n a L Police: legal limit is 0.02 % blood alcohol content. 80 Løp112 Løding VÆR Medical emergency help: 113 110 Waste disposal points for motorhomes, Bliksvær Fire: Naurstad Skje n Fauske caravans & tourist coaches rsta orde 17 Saltfj dfjo F A U S K (Esso) E RV 85 rdeSortland Havna Service n Saltstraumen Skjerstad Øksnes Esso Myre RV 821 Breivik Sandvika 830 812 R

ørarnøy

Tran øyfjo rden Dy rø ys un de t

Summer Ferry

Stetind 1391m

Lighthouse Tourist information centre Bird cliff Musken Mountain lodge

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Hamsund

European route Secondary road Municipal boundary Regional/county boundary

Skarberget Tysfjord

D R O

HA MA RØY

Grat

EVEN ES

Kjeldebotn

Tranøy Bognes

816

EN

en fjord Ofot 819

Ballangen

Brettesnes

Salangsda

LAVA NG E N

Grøsnes

Evenes

Ramsund

Offersøy Korsnes

Airport Road number National Park

Refilling of gas bottles: Industrifeltet (only 11 kg) Shell oljesenter / Hålogaland Varmeservice as Markveien 25, Sortland. Tel: +47 76 12 00 29 Midnight sun / Dark (blue) season: 20.05 – 23.07 / 23.11 – 17.01 Currency We highly recommend that you obtain your norwegian currency before your departure to Northern Norway. Credit cards such as VISA and MasterCard can be used in most ATM’s, shops, cafés and restaurants.Foreign debit cards are not always accepted. Quick charger: Vesterålen Bil AS Vesterålsgata 41, Sortland

Sulitjelma

Misvær

Rognan

S

Bogen

824

LØ DI NGEN

Digermulen

Svolvær

16

ord

Lødingen

Trollfjorden

Kabelvåg knes Kalle Skrova 817 Henningsvær 15Stamsund Mortsund stad Gim

837

Hanøy

AUSTVÅGØYA

815

Rolvsfjord

et

Ha

Sildpollnes

Hov

822

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Fiskebøl

Laukvik

12

Hov

851

rd fjo

825

Evenskjer Tjeldsund S K Å N L A N D

TJELD S U N D

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HINNØYA

825

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SALA NG E N

LKE

820

Melbu HADS EL

VÅGAN

85

Stokmarknes en

Refsnes

Kastnes

84

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Sørrollnes

Flesnes

Sigerfjord Blokken

Ringstad

Skagen

83

Sortland

Guvåg

Vinje

Kvæfjord

820

LANGØYA

Straume

9

Jennestad

tunnelen

820

84

SØ R RE I SA

Sjøvegan

ANDØRJA

Hamnvik

Stangnes

83

sund

8

Harstad

KVÆF JORD

SO RT L A ND

KJØTTA

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Hovden Skjellbogen 821 Kråkberget Nykvåg RyggedalEide BØ

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Strengelvåg

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DYRØYA

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NORG E NOR DLAN SVER D FY I GE

Stø

Nyksund

861 en fjord

Brøstadbotn

Skrolsvik

ANDØYA

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5

BJARKØY

Våg sfj

Anda

Dverberg

Gullesfj

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Tranøybotn

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TRAN ØY

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Silsand

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NASJONALPARK Skatvik

Selfjorden

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Bleik en

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Torsken

Torskenfjorden

Bleiksøya

2

Hamn

Gryllefjord

Andenes

Skaland Lysnes

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Useful Infomation

7


© Od d - Eirik Ein ars e n - w w w.vis it ve s t e ral e n.co m

2

accommodation Vesterålen can offer a good and varied choice of accommodation, which easily satisfies individual demands. © b i l d e r.n o r n e t.n o

There are hotels, large and small fisherman’s cabins, boat houses, cabins and camping sites catering for motor homes, caravans and tents. Alternatively, you may prefer to rent a room on a farm or in one of the private houses which provide rooms in the area. Vesterålen Hiking Association has 4 large, comfortable cabins available where you can stay overnight. For something completely different and away from it all, you can rent a room at a lighthouse.

Far out in Bø in Vesterålen is the old trading Centre Ringstad by the fjord, surrounded by a beautiful archipelago. Here is opportunity for many outdoor adventures. The hosts and guides at the house on the outside do their utmost to make your holiday an unforgettable experience. Whether you want to see the eagles, moose, photograph the northern lights or going snow-shoeing, fishing, cycling or go on a guided kayak trip on the fjord we will lend you professional equipment and guides. Sleep well in the cozy seaside apartments, holiday homes and cabins and enjoy local specialties in our pier restaurant. Your adventure starts here. www.yttersiden.no

Symbols Prices are ’from’ and per person in NOK, presented as ’adult/ child’. If price ’0 NOK’ = selfguided visits or some activities are unpriced. Contact the venue for more information. Map reference/location Shows season/period, when product is available. Number of beds/ accommodation Number of rooms/ accommodation Capacity/conference Seats/food served Company Location/place

8

www.visitvesteralen.com


S PRICES SE A T U Y < 500 NOK = SP I NS P IN O E L / B L U S H D G A T U N ET IN K- G PO N G 500 - 750 NOK = AB EA /C E O N I IE EN IL H /S ED OO N R U B E R - B E ES DG FR Y RV D H YI IT T 750 - 1000 NOK = VA T T LL O NS A E S T I E M R Y E A L T OM E R S T IN E S L L I D S E V A I ROOM MOO B A T I N H I O E U N ’ > 1000 NOK = E I H IE E CA S - S OU E O L E R H Y I C E MP S / H SS / W N G I R S L / G I T AY TA T M U T E L U T H OT H H O D S E L C R G T R E T O R A L E T H I H C L E V I T D E L TE LI UN E LE E C I L S I T U N R E AL I MM AT C Y T I A R R B OS V V G H E H R M CO OT MO A MPSO H P I OOMS E A I O L L L OO I A O I O C A W CAPACITY SEASON PRICE C H C H MO R A R H L L I F A F W A E T V S W H S B B A

ACCOMMODATION I1

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G6

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D8

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C9

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F10

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Andenes Camping Bleiksveien 34, Andenes

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(+47) 41 34 03 88

camping@whalesafari.no

Andrikken Hotell

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Storgata 53, Andenes

(+47) 76 14 12 22

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Andøy Friluftssenter AS Buksnesfjord, Buksnesfjord

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(+47) 76 14 88 04

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(+47) 91 58 35 17 (+47) 76 14 63 78

Marmelkroken Kultur- og Aktivitetsenter Bø i Andøy, Risøyhamn

(+47) 95 76 57 39

Midnattsol Camping & Hytteutleie Gårdsveien 8, Bleik

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Kråkberget, Straumsjøen

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Skagenveien, Skagen, Bø

(+47) 92 06 38 75

Vesterålen Apartment

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Møysalen Nasjonalparksenter Nygård Feriehus

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Vesterålen Kysthotell

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Børøya, Stokmarknes

(+47) 76 15 29 99

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01.0131.12

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01.0131.12

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8

01.0131.12

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53

01.0131.12

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01.0631.08

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01.0131.12

58 113

01.0131.12

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01.0530.09

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01.0131.12

38 127

01.0131.12

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01.0131.12

34 200

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resepsjon@kystlandsbyen.no

01.0131.12

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www.moeysalen.no -

oddarne.dyro@trollfjord.no

29

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01.0120.12

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www.v-resort.no 50

post@moeysalen.no

(+47) 95 94 71 57

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www.vesteralenapartment.com 20

booking@m-h.no

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www.skagakaia.no -

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www.yttersiden.no 50

booking@vesteralenapartment.com

(+47) 91 70 57 89

Lekangveien 324, Stokmarknes

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www.fjordcamp.no 80

booking@yttersiden.no

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(+47) 76 16 00 00

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200

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www.midnattsolcamping.com -

post@skagakaia.no

(+47) 94 80 23 75

Christian Frederiksens gate 3, Melbu

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www.marmelkroken.no -

post@fjordcamp.no

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midnattsol.camping@gmail.com

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Melbu Hotell AS

Hennes

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01.0530.09 01.0131.12

www.kvalnesbrygga.no -

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Skagakaia & Cafe Gamle Posthuset

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lisbeth.seppola@gmail.com

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Ringstad Sjøhus, Straumsjøen

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www.hotellmarena.no 30

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(+47) 76 13 76 40

Huset på Yttersiden

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www.andoy-friluftssenter.no 25

kvbrygga@online.no

(+47) 47 84 32 19

Fjordcamp

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info@hotellmarena.no

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Kvalnes, Dverberg

www.andrikkenhotell.no 120

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booking@andoy-friluftssenter.no

Storgata 15, Andenes

Kvalnesbrygga AS

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Hotell Marena

Klaksjord, Bø i Vesterålen

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- the pleasant hotel in the centre of Myre

LIVE IN THE CENTRE IN THE MIDDLE OF LOFOTEN & VESTERÅLEN

Midnight sun

Aurora Borealis

Myre Hotel offers • Accommodation • Restaurant • Fully licensed Bar • Meeting and Conference facilities Storgt. 52, 8430 Myre :: Tel.: +47 76 11 99 20 :: post@myre-hotell.no www.myre-hotell.no www.facebook.com/myrehotell

Accommodation

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ACCOMMODATION h13

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Offersøy Feriesenter A/S Offersøy, Lødingen Vestbygd

Grasnes Feriehus

S PRICES SE A T U Y < 500 NOK = I NS P IN O / SP B LE H DL - U PO G S T NG A B T A U N E K 500 - 750 NOK = I A E /C E O G IN N IE EN IL H /S ED OO N R U B E R - B E ES DG FR Y RV D H YI IT T 750 - 1000 NOK = VA M SE Y T MOO T T I NT E L L T B I NS OM LO DA S E VE A I R ROOM ES RE S A I A T I N H I O E U N ’ L E > 1000 NOK = I H IE E C A S - S O U E O L L E R H Y I C E MP S H SS / W N G I R / S L / G I T AY TA T M U T E L U T H OT H H O D S E L C R G T R E T O R A L E T H I H C L E V I T D E L TE LI UN E LE E C I L S I T U N R E AL I MM AT C Y T I A R R B OS V V G H E H R M CO OT MO A MPSO H P I OOMS E A I O L L L OO I A O I O C A W CAPACITY SEASON PRICE C H C H MO R A R H L L I F A F W A E T V S W H S B B A

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Vesterlandet 159, Sortland

(+47) 97 01 57 78

Sortland Camping

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Vesterveien 51, Sortland

(+47) 76 11 03 00

Sortland Hotell

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Vesterålsgata 59, Sortland

(+47) 76 10 84 00

Vesterålen Sjøhus Åndstadsjøen, Sortland

Ekspedisjonen as Nyksund

Holmvik Brygge Nyksund, Myre

Husjord Apartment Husjord, Stø

Marihaugen Apartments Nyksund, Myre

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Oppmyre Camping Skjellbogen Hyttegrend Skjellbogen

Skåltofta

l l l (+47) 94 40 84 19 (+47) 91 51 16 34

Strandbo leiligheter / Arctic Whale Tours Stø havn, Stø

(+47) 76 13 43 00

Valen, Stø

Toftenes Sjøhuscamping Toftenes, Alsvåg

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www.myre-hotell.no -

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www.nyksundgjestehus.no 20

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post@oppmyrecamping.no

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skjellbogen@tnett.no

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info@arcticwhaletours.com

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post@toftenessjohus.no

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www.arcticwhaletours.com 40

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stobobilcamp@gmail.com

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02.0121.12

post@nyksundgjestehus.no

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50 100

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post@myre-hotell.no

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01.0131.12

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marilorange2000@gmail.com

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48 200

www.husjord-apt.com -

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leif@husjord-apt.com

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15.0530.09

www.nyksund-info.com/B&Bnorsk.htm -

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01.0131.12

www.visitsortland.no 25

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www.sortlandhotell.no -

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(+47) 97 53 36 48

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post@nyksund.com

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post@ekspedisjonen-as.no

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Nyksund, Myre

Stø Bobilcamp AS

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(+47) 97 03 04 94

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sjoehus@online.no

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(+47) 97 72 53 98

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post@sortlandhotell.no

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hj.bergseng@sortland-camping.no

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www.offersoy.no 30

grasnesferiehus@gmail.com

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(+47) 76 11 99 20

Oppmyreveien 53, Oppmyre

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post@offersoy.no

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Myre Hotell Nyksund Gjestehus AS

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Storgata 52, Myre Nyksund

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www.visitvesteralen.com


Eat and sleep in historical ambiance in Nyksund!

COMFORTABLE AND LUXURIOUS The finest hotel rooms in Vesterålen

HOLMVIK BRYGGE

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GOD STREK

Holmvik Brygge in the harbor of Nyksund is a living museum, where our guests can feel how fishermen were living about 100 years ago. Open all year round.

• B&B Guesthouse • Room & Studio-apartment • Restaurant «Holmvik Stua» • Own Smokehouse EACH ROOM – A NEW ADVENTURE

Step into history Tel: +47 958 63 866 post@nyksund.com www.nyksund.com

Booking: www.hotellmarena.no Andenes • Tel: +47 915 83 517

ExpEriEncE summEr in Andøy

Welcome to Vesterålen Kysthotell

- in the heart of Lofoten and Vesterålen

ture The advenre starts he

Cabin at lankanholmen with 2 rooms, 4 beds: 1350 NOK sea House at Bleik, 3 rooms, 6 beds: 1600 NOK viking: dormitory 275 NOK single 400 NOK double 650 NOK andrikken Hotel: single 890 NOK double 1190 NOK the restaurant at andrikken offers contemporary local cuisine a la Carte and simple dishes Fitness room available for our guests.

Hostel andrikkenhotell

CaBins, sea HoUses & yoUtH Hostel Tel: +47 76 14 12 22 service@andrikkenhotell.no www.andrikkenhotell.no

CaBins, sea HoUses & yoUtH Hostel

Foto: Fernando Ugarte, Marten Bril, andøy tUristinForMasjon, siMen Bergvik og svein terje k. eliassen.

Stay at Lankanholmen in Andenes harbor or at our budget accommodation, Viking. Andrikken Hotel in the middle of Andenes or by the white sandy beach in the little village Bleik.

Hotel, Fishermen’s cabin and ‹Nordlandshouse› - Sleep well in beautiful surroundings!

Postboks 64 - N-8455 Stokmarknes +47 76 15 29 99 - resepsjon@kystlandsbyen.no

Accommodation

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© bil d e r.n o rn e t.n o

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Fishing and boating Some of the country’s richest fishing grounds are located in Vesterålen. Traditional fishing villages are well worth a visit, whether they are old, abandoned fishing stations or newer, modern fishing ports bustling with maritime activity. Many visitors want to come to Vesterålen precisely for the good fishing they find here. In Vesterålen we offer guided fishing outings, and many of the tourist facilities have boats for hire.

Children and adolescents younger than 16 years of age are legally entitled to a free fishing licence for inland fishing during the period 1 January to 20 August.

There are also many good spots where one can fish from the shoreline. The most common species are cod, coalfish, haddock and redfish, but it is also possible to catch salmon and sea trout or even a giant halibut.

Fishing rights in rivers and lakes are the property of the property owners, and fishing can be done only with the consent of the landowner (for example through purchase of a local fishing licence). Fishing for salmon, sea trout and Arctic char in watercourses requires an additional licensing fee paid to the Norwegian government.

Information on small game hunting and fishing in Vesterålen can be found on our website: www.vestreg.no/jaktogfiske

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© Mar ten Bri l - w w w.v isit v estera len.com

© B jør n Eide - w w w.visit vester alen.com

Cod (Gadus morhua) has 3 fins on its back, 2 anal fins, a barbel and a slight overbite. They can be up to 180 cm long and weigh as much as 55 kg, however those found along the coast are smaller. Cod are found only in the North Atlantic Ocean and keep to the coastal waters, the fjords and out over the sandbanks. There are 2 main types, ocean (or spawning) cod and coastal cod. Spawning cod grow up in the Barents Sea and then migrate south to spawn. Normally the fishermen fish for cod all year round with the highlight being in February - March when they go out in search of the spawning cod.

Coalfish (Pollachius virens) can be up to 120 cm long and weigh over 20 kg. The abdomen and sides are silver/grey with a darker shade along the backbone of the fish. Only the young fish have a short barbel. In the western parts of Norway, they have different names for coalfish depending on size, while in other parts, and especially the north, they just use the adjectives small, «podgy» and large. The locals in Vesterålen prefer coalfish in the summer. It is possible to catch small coalfish from the shoreline.

www.visitvesteralen.com


Guest marinas in Vesterålen Sortland Småbåthavn 5 spaces for guests (water depth: 2m) Tel: +47 76 12 23 46 Lødingen 16 spaces for guests Tel: +47 76 98 66 00

Melbu Indre Havn 3-4 spaces for guests Tel: +47 76 16 46 50

Vesterålen Kysthotell 12 spaces for guests Tel: +47 76 15 29 99

Nyksund Tel: +47 76 13 40 35 Port of refuge

Myre Sjarkhavn 10 spaces for guests (water depth: 3m) Tel: +47 951 53 8 72

Torghuken, Sortland 6-7 spaces for guests Tel: +47 76 10 82 20

Andenes pendelkai (Andenes port authorities) Tel: +47 478 67 933

Ringstad Båthavn 4 spaces for guests (water depth: 4,5m) (3m rock by entrance) Tel: +47 950 35 928

Bleik 3 spaces for guests Tel: +47 478 67 933

Offersøy 10 spaces for guests (water depth: 4m) Tel: +47 76 93 39 00

Hennes havn Spaces for guests: varies Tel: +47 76 16 46 50 Markedsbrygga Stokmarknes 8 spaces for guests Tel: +47 76 16 46 50

Vinjesjøen Båthavn 8-10 spaces for guests Tel: +47 76 13 53 35

Vesterålen Sjøhus 15 spaces for guests (water depth: 3m) Tel: +47 76 12 37 40

Maurnes Fiskerihavn 5 spaces for guests Tel: +47 76 12 66 85

Fjordcamp 15 spaces for guests Tel: +47 76 13 76 40

Fiskeværet Skipnes 25 spaces for guests (water depth: 2,8m) Tel: +47 76 13 28 55

Nordmela 5 spaces for guests Tel: +47 478 67 933

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Dverberg 2 spaces for guests Tel: +47 913 89 914 Risøyhamn Havn Port of refuge

Fishing H13

DEEP-SEA FISHING FROM OFFERSØY

01.03 > 15.10 -

850

Offersøy Feriesenter AS (+47) 76 93 39 00 Offersøy, Vestbygd

Welcome! 031 © A r n f i n n F e n e s

Fishing from March to September. Accommodation in private rooms, cabins and rorbu fishermen’s cabins. Boat and fishing equipment rental. Cleaning room with freezers. Price per boat NOK 850–2,100.

post@offersoy.no www.offersoy.no

34 cabins • 2 handicap cabins • Caravan & tent sites • Course & conference • Boat hire • Open all year

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SELF-HIRE FISHING TRIPS ALL YEAR ROUND

01.01 > 31.12 -

300

Fjordcamp, Kråkberget, (+47) 76 13 76 40 Straumsjøen

post@fjordcamp.no www.fjordcamp.no

© Bjørn Ei de - w w w.vi si t vestera len.com

© Mar ten B ril - w w w.visit vesteralen.com

Redfish (Sebastes marinus) can be up to 100 cm long and up to 15 kg in weight. They can live for up to 60 years and reach maturity when 12-15 years of age. Redfish is considered well-suited for fish dishes. It is a deep water fish, living at a depth of between 100 and 1000 meters. The female takes care of her eggs until they hatch.

042 © Fj o r d c a m p

Boats for hire with GPS and echo sounders, or join us for a coastal fishing trip, and see how it’s been done for generations in Northern Norway. Skipper with 40 years’ experience!

Halibut (Hippoglossinae) A member of the flounder family. Although most halibut are deep water fish living at a depth of between 300 and 2000 m, they are sometimes found in shallow waters, much to the delight of fishing enthusiasts lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time. Guides take visitors to the best places and share local fishing tips and advice with them.

Fishing and boating

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© Mar t e n Bril - w w w.vis it ve s t e ral e n.co m

Did you know… Puffin (Fratercula arctica ) Size: 29-31 cm. The puffin lays one egg, maybe once in a while two, if more than enough food has been readily available. They eat small fish such as sand eel and young herring. Puffins have teeth that point backwards in their beak which allows them to catch fish one after another. They are good divers and can go to 40 m deep in their search for food. They use their wings equally as well under water as in the air.

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Nature safari Vesterålen is the realm of hundreds of large and smaller islands which form a fantastic natural skerry landscape. The terrain varies from craggy alpine mountains to gentle, green hillsides, deep valleys, chalk-white sandy beaches and narrow fjords. In no other place in the world does the Gulf Stream come as close in towards the shoreline as it does in Vesterålen. Because of the warm and nutrient-rich ocean currents, Vesterålen is host ­during the summer to teeming bird life and practically unparalleled flora. Nature safari E5

ARCTIC WILDLIFE

15.05 > 10.09 -

450/350

Stø Safari AS, v/ Stø Bobilcamp, (+47) 46 86 03 35 Valen, Stø

kontakt@stosafari.no www.stosafari.com I2

BLEIKSØYA

Opportunities are as abundant as nature itself and will leave you with long-lasting memories, whether you venture out to sea or keep your feet firmly planted on terra firma.

One of Norway’s most famous bird cliffs, with a colony of around 80,000 puffin pairs. Other species include cormorants, razorbills and guillemots. We see sea eagles on every trip. Duration about 1.5 hours. 01.06 > 15.08 -

Puffin Safari Bleik, Bleik

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Experience thousands of seabirds and a large seal colony on the Anda nature reserve, or take a fishing trip with a real northern-Norwegian fisherman. Guided mountain tours on request.

(+47) 90 28 17 72

puffin@whalesafari.no www.puffinsafari.no

www.visitvesteralen.com

251 © P u f f i n S a fa r i

Our local nature- and culture guides are ready to take you on a discovery adventure that will permit you to have a close encounter with sea birds or with the lord of the forest – the moose – or perhaps a wandering herd of reindeer. Perhaps other adventures appeal to you – how about a seal and bird safari to the Bleiksøya Bird Preserve and Anda Fyr, a photo safari, a sea eagle safari, a skerry excursion, pine tree safari or a boat trip into the famous Trollfjord? During late autumn and early winter a whale safari is arranged.


© Mar t e n Bril - w w w.vis it ve s t e rale n.co m

© Mar t e n Bril - w w w.vis it ve s t e rale n.co m

Sea gannet (Morus bassanus) Size: 87-100 cm. The sea gannet is the largest seabird in the north Atlantic and has a wingspan of 2 metres. The gannets are specialists in diving. With wings folded, they swoop from a height of around 40 metres at a speed of up to 30 m/ sec, down into the water in their search for fish. They have 3 nesting areas in Vesterålen; one at Ulvøyholmen near Hadsel and 2 others in the area outside Andøya.

White tail (Haliaeetus albicilla) Size: 69-91 cm. Adult females can have a wingspan of up to 240 cm, males somewhat smaller. Can live up to 50 years old. 2 or 3 eggs are laid in march/ may and these are cared for by both parents throughout the 35-45 day incubation period. The sea eagle feeds on fish, sea birds and dead carcasses. They have their own areas where they sit and have command of the views out over the ocean. They use the same positions through many generations.

© Mar t e n Bril - w w w.vis it ve s t e ralen.com

© Mar t e n Bril - w w w.vis it ve s t e ralen.com

Common seal (Phoca vitulina) Size: 1.7-1.9 m, max.130 kg (female) and 170 kg (male). A common sight along Norway’s coastline. They keep mainly to their own areas, are sociable and live in colonies. The common seal likes to keep close to the coastline where they are protected from the waves and they can lie on the rocks, beaches and reefs. They eat different types of fish such as coalfish, herring and Norway pout.

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Moose (Alces alces) The largest of the deer family. The fur is water repellant and provides good insulation. The ox’s antlers can be up to 2 m wide. They shed them after rutting and grow new ones the following spring. The ox weighs between 200-600 kg and can be 2-3.2 m long. The cow weighs between 200-400 kg and is about 10 cm lower than the ox. The moose is a plant eater and preferably moves around alone. Is more active in the twilight and at the crack of dawn.

PUFFIN AND SEA-EAGLE SAFARI

Sea-eagle on the hunt after puffins can be observed on every trip. Experience the Island of Bleiksøya, one of the most known and approachable bird rocks in Norway. There are more then 150.000 puffins on their breeding grounds. Also other species of seabird can be observed. The trip will take 1,5 hrs. with a local guide. Midnight sun-trips will be organised if enough bookings.

Fisherman for a day

Fishing on the open sea is the North Norwegian Adventure. Deep-sea fishing trips - coley, cod, haddock, etc. Fishing tackle available on board. Have your catch cooked and served on board. Daily departures at 17:00. Additional trips made when necessary. Duration: approx. 4 hours. Starting point: Bleik Harbour.

Stay in apartment near the beach in the village of Bleik Tel. +47 917 45 775 E-mail: marinka_p24@yahoo.no

BOOKING:

Tel.: +47 90 83 85 94 (duty phone on board) +47 90 28 17 72 / +47 97 19 52 75 / +47 75 14 57 75. E-mail: rsolvol@start.no www.puffinsafari.com

PHOTO: PUFFIN SAFARI, OLA ALBERT BJERRANG (WWW.BJERRANG.NO) , PAOLO VOLPOMNI

nature safari

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Nature treks There are marked hiking trails throughout the entire Vesterålen area, and they may be used during both summer and winter. The routes are easily accessible and are found almost anywhere one wants to explore. There are three marked coastal trails, each described by a separate brochure. One is located in Bø (Straumsjøen – Spjelkvågen), one in Andøya (Stave – Bleik) and the third is in Øksnes (Langenes church – Klo). There is also a touring map with several suggested trip itineraries. The map is also very suitable for use as a road map. There are also marked trails to the Norwegian Trekking Association’s cabins in Vesterålen. The local hiking association has cabins both in the mountains and along the seashore. Møysalen National Park is one of the country’s smallest national preserves, with only 51.2 km2 and is located on Hinnøya, Norway’s largest island. Towering in the centre of the national park is Møysalen, the mountain that was selected by outdoor magazine Ute as «Norway’s most beautiful natural attraction». There are guided treks to the peak, which is 1262 m above sea level. Surrounding peaks in the area rise up to 1000 m above sea level. Ask for the brochures containing route suggestions and descriptions at the local tourist information. You can also visit Vesterålen Hiking Association’s website at www.turistforeningen.no/ vesteralen if you want information about the seasonal excursion programme or the local hiking association’s cabins in Vesterålen. 16

Right of access The Outdoor Recreations Act provides the right of the public to access and stay in wilderness areas. It gives us the right to passage in wooded and mountainous areas, to go skiing, ­sledging and to ride horseback on trails and roads. The public right of access safeguards the right to spend time and to set up tents in wilderness areas, but not closer than 150 m from houses or cabins. Wilderness is defined as all uncultivated land and comprises most lakes, shorelines, moorlands, forests and mountain areas in Norway. As users of the public right of access we also have obligations. We must behave in a cautious and considerate manner and avoid causing harm or inconveniences for owners, users, damage to the natural environment or harm to domesticated animals or wildlife. On many maps, bathing sites are marked that are not posted with signs or adapted to public use. You are personally responsible for investigating whether these can be used in accordance with the above-mentioned legal restrictions. The same applies for marked tent sites. Be careful to tidy up after yourself before you leave a resting place or tent site. Take all refuse with you. You must also exercise caution when lighting fires outdoors and you must not light open fires near any forested area during the period 15 April to 15 September. www.visitvesteralen.com


© Se bas t ie n Go uj aud / w w w.n o rd n o r ge.co m / Lødin ge n © Ø rn ulf Be r t hin us s e n - w w w.vis it ve steralen.com

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hiking tip dronningruta – The Queen’s Route – a round trip along the shoreline and over the mountain. Dronningruta is a marked trail about 15 km long and is a «round trip» along the shoreline and over the mountain between ­Nyksund and Stø in Øksnes municipality in Vesterålen. If you are in good physical shape and are used to medium altitudes, this is the trip for you. Certain portions of the trip may seem challenging in terms of heights. The trip can be done in 5-8 hours. Red route +++ You decide yourself where you want to start. The highest point is Finngamheia (448 mas). The route is signposted with the Hiking Association’s Ts at the starting points and along the trail. The hiking surface is mountain rock, earth, stone and peat. Parts of the route run along the shoreline. There is a steep section from both sides up to the mountain summit. Certain parts are ­secured with safety ropes. Experiences along this route are numerous. The trip offers not only variation in hiking terrain and splendid vistas, but the starting and stopping points are also two very special sights. Nyksund is an old, once abandoned fishing village that has been resurrected through the efforts of artist residents and the tourism industry. Stø is a small, charming and active fishing village.

Activities • Sea- and Fresh water fishing (salmon, trout, charr) • Hiking, guided tours to the mountain Møysalen (1262 moh) Facilities: • Cafè, camping site with service building, ‘Rorbu’ cabin Rental: • Boats for tours and fishing • Room

post@moeysalen.no - www.moeysalen.no Nature treks

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Gåsbøl


© Mar t e n Bril - w w w.vis it ve s t e ral e n.co m

Sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) Size: 10-18m in length, weighing 40-60 tons. The sperm whale is the largest of the toothed whales and can live for up to 80 years. The males are found here, the females and their young live in the more temperate waters of the North and Mid-Atlantic (50›S-40›N). These whales can often be seen outside Bleik. Here the continental shelf ends and waters from different streams and currents converge resulting in a rich nutritious source which the whales willingly take advantage of. A fully grown adult can eat as much as a ton of food in one day. Normally, they dive to a depth of 500-700 m in their search for food. They spend about 7 mins at the surface before they dive down again for ca. 20-35 mins. The maximum time they can be under water is around 2 hours. Reproduction is very slow, a female gives birth every 3-5 years but on the other hand, these whales live for up to 60-70 years.

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Whale safari Vesterålen is located on the edge of the continental shelf, where the nutrient-rich ocean is a primary feeding ground for whales. This geographical privilege makes the area perfect for whale safaris. Here one can experience some of the world’s largest sea mammals at close range.

If you plan to take the whale safari, it is recommended that you bring along warm clothing and appropriate footwear. During the summer season there is a great influx of whale enthusiasts, and we therefore recommend that you book your safari well in advance. In the winter, the whales follow the herring into the fjords. Starting from october/november, the whale safari excursions will also be available during the winter months. It will be possible to see killer whales, humpbacks, (long-finned) pilot whales and fin whales. There is also a golden opportunity to observe the sea eagle in it’s natural habitat on these trips.

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WHALE, SEAL AND BIRD SAFARI

24.05 > 07.09 -

227 © C a m i l l a I l m o n i

An unforgettable adventure from the fishing village of Stø – see the world’s largest toothed whale, plus seals and thousands of seabirds at close quarters. Whale guarantee!

910/580

Arctic Whale Tours AS (+47) 76 13 43 00 Stø havn, Stø

info@arcticwhaletours.com www.arcticwhaletours.com I1

WHALE SAFARI

We offer the shortest distance to the whales, 100% whale guarantee, professional guides, exclusive souvenir shop, guided tour of our whale exhibition, activities all year round, restaurant. 01.01 > 31.12 -

094 © H va l s a fa r i AS

The boats used for whale safaris vary in size, fittings and motor power. One common factor for all boats and crews is that they meet the stringent requirements for government licensing. Safety and comfort are foremost. This entails that whale safaris can be completed only under suitable weather conditions.

whale safari

890/570

Hvalsafari AS, Hamnegata 1C, (+47) 76 11 56 00 Andenes

booking@whalesafari.no www.whalesafari.no I1

WHALE AND BIRD SAFARIS

We organise whale, bird and seal safaris with RIB boats in summer. See sperm whales, puffins and sea eagles. In winter see humpback whales and killer whales. We rent out accommodation in Brygga. 01.05 > 30.09 995/800 01.11 > 01.04 Sea Safari Andenes Hamnegata, Andenes

(+47) 91 67 49 60

sales@seasafariandenes.no www.seasafariandenes.no

www.visitvesteralen.com

303 © M a r t e n B r i l W h i t e ta i l

From May to September, whale safaris are arranged from the ports of Andenes and Stø, both situated on the seaward side of Vesterålen. In the summer, the whale safaris go out to Bleiksegga. Here you will mainly see the sperm whale.


T H E

O R I G I N A L

A N D

L E A D I N G

S I N C E

1 9 8 8

Whale guarantee*

facebook.com Whalesafari Andenes

Get close to the world’s biggest toothed whale in its natural element Summer season: May–September. Winter season: October–April. There have been whale safaris at Andenes since 1988,

*100% whale guarantee. If our boat does not find

combining research, teaching and tourism. We offer

a whale, we offer you another whale safari for free

the shortest travelling time to the whale areas, quali-

(first available trip). If you wish to accept this, you must

fied guides, whale guarantee, the Whale Centre

book it yourself. If you are unable to take another trip,

(teaching basic knowledge about whale biology, their

we give you your money back.

place in the ecosystem and conducting on-going

(Excluding admin charge + guided tour).

research), a restaurant/café, pub and gift shop.

NO. 1 IN ARCTIC WHALEWATCHING

Booking/info.: Hvalsafari AS, P.B. 58, N-8483 Andenes Tel.: + 47 76 11 56 00 E-mail: booking@whalesafari.no www.whalesafari.no

DESIGN: GOD STREK. PHOTO: DANIELE ZANONI, T. LUNDQVIST AND SVEIN T. K. ELIASSEN.

WHALE SAFARI


© Marten Bril - www.visitvesteralen.com

© Marten Bril - www.visitvesteralen.com

Humpback (Megaptera novaeangliae) Can be up to 18 m long and weigh up to 40 tons. They are sometimes seen in groups of 3 or 4. They are able to perform acrobatic jumps out of the water and often beat the water with their long flippers. Some scientists believe this to be a form of communication. Humpbacks are also known for their «singing talents». These high-pitched sounds can continue for up to 20 minutes.

© Marten Bril - www.visitvesteralen.com

© Marten Bril - www.visitvesteralen.com

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Killer whale (Orcinus orca) In norwegian waters; males are ca. 7m and 4 - 5 tons. Females: 5.5m and ca. 3 tons. Their diet is quite varied and consists mostly of fish like herring and mackerel, but also cod, squid, birds, seal and even other whale types can be a part of their menu. More recently, the herrings migration patterns have changed a little and the orcas can now be seen here all year round.

Minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) 7-10 m long, 10 tons in weight. One of the smallest baleen whales. The baleens filter krill, small fish (such as herring and capelin) and certain squid. They are normally seen either alone or in small groups, but larger gatherings can occur around the feeding grounds. Mating is believed to take place in the winter and the females can give birth each year, believed also to be in the winter, after a ca. 10mth pregnancy. However, acoustic data suggest they give birth in May in tropical waters.

Pilot whale (Globicephala melas) Male 6-6.5 m, female 4-5.5 m and ca. 2 tons. The shape of the males back fin which is larger and more bowed on the male. They live in groups of 10-20, which is believed to be for the benefit of the females and their young, but often one sees large groups of many hundred whales with a strong social connection. Pilot whales dive mainly to a depth of 30-60 m but they can go so deep as 600 m. They feed on squid, fish and certain crustaceans.

Bird & Whale Watching Andenes Booking +47 - 91 67 49 60 - www.seasafariandenes.no

Rooms for rent in our Brygge overlooking the harbourside of Andenes 22

www.visitvesteralen.com


Arctic

Whale, seal and bird safari in one!

Whale Tours RANTEE W H A L E G UA season *Only applies

in summer

From the working fishing village of Stø, we take you out on an unforgettable sea safari! See the world’s biggest toothed whale, seabirds and seals in their natural environment, and learn all about them.

*

We follow international guidelines for responsible whale watching.

A unique combination We are within easy reach of the sperm whale’s feeding ground in the Bleik Canyon and the Anda Nature Reserve, nesting site for thousands of seabirds and home to a large colony of common seals. This variety of marine wildlife means that we can offer you the full show: whale, seal and bird safari, all in an unforgettable adventure package!

Friendly atmosphere on board

Our friendly crew will always be on hand for you, making sure that you are taken care of as a member of our team. Our guides are qualified, professional nature guides with top

RATE D IN NO NUMBER O RTHE RN N NE TRIP O RWAY *** www ! . t r i p a ** i n A u d v i s o r. c gust o 2012 m .

marine biology and coastal culture qualifications.

Your choice for a responsible, wildlife-friendly whale safari We follow international whale watching guidelines, created in close cooperation with the WDCS (Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society) to ensure the wildlife’s welfare.

We also offer accommodation in apartments.

NOW ALSO WINTER WHALE SAFARI: NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER

JOIN US NOW! blog / www.arcticwhaletours.com

facebook / Arctic Whale Tours

twitter / ArcticWhaleTour

Summer season: 24 May–7 September Contact us: info@arcticwhaletours.com / +47 76 13 43 00 – +47 473 84 621 gode reiseforslag


© Be n t Bak k an - w w w.vis it ve s t e ral e n.co m

Paddling Vesterålen is a paddler’s paradise for both experts and the less experienced. You can experience beautiful fjords, idyllic skerry landscape and fascinating sea landscapes. You can watch bird and animal life at close range, with pristine and wild nature through the prism of ever-changing wind and weather conditions. All the way from Trollfjord in the south to Andenes in the north you will enjoy sensational paddling opportunities that will give you a feeling of being at one with nature, and you can enjoy this alone as an experienced paddler or as a member of a guided ­excursion. You can glide calmly over a mirror like surface, or you can surf on breakers coming in from the open ocean.

We also wish to recommend one of the world’s largest and best established paddling events, Arctic Sea Kayak Race (ASKR). The event convenes competition paddlers, leisure paddlers and novices for an enjoyable, sociable and instructive week of paddling in the beautiful natural surroundings of the Vesterålen islands. If you are coming to Vesterålen, grant yourself an outing in a kayak. The experience will give you memories of a lifetime! 24

© Kjell Hauge - www.visitvesteralen.com

If you are an experienced paddler, you can explore the seaward side of the Vesterålen islands and experience the area in all its whimsical temperament. Here you will find steep mountain walls and cliffs, well-known bird sanctuaries and challenging sea conditions. The outer side of Bø and Øksnes are very highly recommended! You can also sign up for a guided paddling ­excursion. For the less experienced kayakers, there are lush calm fjords and skerries that are very suitable for paddling. In these areas it is also much easier to get ashore if the weather should suddenly change for the worse. Eidsfjord and its branches, such as Olderfjord, Mellfjord and Hellfjord, offer excellent alternatives to the open ocean. And if you are a total novice, you can sign up for a beginner’s course. If you do not own your own kayak, or are travelling light, you can hire a kayak with all the necessary equipment.

Note: Even if you are out paddling in the middle of summer, the days can be cold and the water temperature is much colder than further south in Norway. We recommend, therefore, that you bring lots of clothes to keep you warm and dry! If you are going for a walk and are not familiar with the area, ask at the tourist information office or someone who knows the locality about recommended routes. Always check the weather forecast before going for a walk!

Sea-kayaking D7

ARCTIC SEA KAYAK RACE (ASKR)

Vesterålen is one of the world’s most beautiful areas for sea kayaking. Leisure kayakers, competitive kayakers and beginners are welcome for a social week in which we will all learn something! 20.07 > 26.07 -

2200

Arctic Sea Kayak Race (+47) 45 00 58 90 Vesterålen

karl-einar@blv.no www.askr.no

www.visitvesteralen.com

188 © O d d - E i r i k E i n a r s e n

8


len r in Vesterå Akvakultu educational and - Exciting es for the experienc ily entire fam

EXPERIENCE THE WORLD’S BEST SALMON

AKVAKULTUR IN VESTERÅLEN is a new adventure center for aquaculture. We are localized in the little village Blokken in Sortland. It takes about 30 minutes to drive there from the center of Sortland. At our facility you get

to gout to sea and visit our farms and see the way they are run, with about 140 000 fish in the cages! In the new exhibitions we give you the story of Norwegian aquaculture industry from the early beginning in the 50’s and 60’s until today with high-tech operation. We have a tunnel that kids can crawl through, computer games, under water cameras, exciting films and a 12 meters long map made from glass where every light shows where there is fish farming in all of northern Norway. And everyone who wants gets to taste the fish!

Akvakultur i Vesterålen Gårdsøyveien 32, Blokken, 8400 Sortland Booking/Info: Tel: +47 958 81 822 E-mail: post@akvakulturivesteralen.no

www.akvakulturivesteralen.no www.facebook.com/akvakultur

DES IGN: GO D STRE K . FOTO : STIaN K lauSSEN, MaRTE N B RIl OG FISKE RI- OG havBRuK SNæRINGE NS laNDSFORE NING.

THE SALMON ROE is only a few millimetres, and yet it is still big enough to create some of Norway’s most important industries. Did you know that Norwegian salmon is enjoyed by 12 million people in 100 countries every day(!), and is one of our most renowned products in the world? Salmon farming also provides opportunities, power and settlement along the coast of Norway, and is together with fishery the most important industry in Vesterålen.


© Trym Ivar Be r g s mo - w w w.vis it ve s t e ral e n.co m

9

Cycling Experiencing Vesterålen by automobile is fine, but the adventure is undoubtedly better when you travel the roads by bicycle. Cycling around Vesterålen opens for magic experiences for the visitor who has sufficient time to take one day at a time. You can chart out a suitable daily route that lets you travel at your own speed and enjoy as much as possible of the region. The routes are easy to cycle, with very little hilly terrain and many stretches that are practically free of motorised traffic. In other words, the roads are suitable for bicycles with a trailer and a small amount of baggage cargo. You can stop along the way for a picnic on the shoreline or a taste of Vesterålen at one of the cafés or restaurants. If you need accommodation, you will find something to your liking, whether it is a chalet, a seaside lodge, fisherman’s cabin or ­hotel room. If you need more inspiration and tips on bicycle routes in Vesterålen, you can visit our cycling web pages or order our combined bicycle and touring map, as well as our cycling guide. The guide contains suggested cycling routes, table of distances, segmented maps, samples of what you can do and see, as well as other trip tips for your biking journey through Vesterålen.

26

We have a separate bicycle guide for Vesterålen including good individual, weather-resistant maps for each route. The guide can be purchased either on the Internet or by e-mail.

Arctic Race of Norway In 2013, Vesterålen got to host the Arctic Race of Norway ­cycle race. Tens of thousands of spectator were gathered along the route and in the starting and the finishing towns. Unique TV photos of the event portrayed Vesterålen as a fantastic place for cycling. For more information about Arctic Race: www.arctic-race.no There are lovely films on YouTube; search for Arctic Race of Norway. We bid you welcome and wish you a pleasant bicycle trip through Vesterålen!

www.visitvesteralen.com


© Øy vin d W o l d - w w w.vis it ve s t e ral e n.co m

© ASO © Øy vin d W o ld - w w w.vis it ve s t e rale n.com

Extract from the bicycle guide for Vesterålen Route 1. Lødingen – Raftsundet Lødingen (58 km). Beautiful resting places, old fishing communities, nature trails and hiking paths running by ­ancient Viking dwelling features. Route 2. Sortland – Kaljord (54,3 km). From Sortland and out towards Fiskebøl you can avail yourself of bathing beaches, art studios, shops and dining facilities. You can also participate in a guided trek to the peak of Vesterålen’s tallest mountain – Møysalen (1262mas), and visit Møysalen National Park. Route 3. Melbu – Frøskeland (76 km). Hadsel Island has much to offer in the way of culture, museums and galleries. The seaward route from ­Melbu – Stokmarknes is a gem! Easily negotiable terrain! Eidsfjord has excellent ­resting spots and a fantastic panorama! Route 4. Sortland – Bø (Hovden), (69 km). Bø has a dramatically beautiful mountain panorama and view out towards the open ocean. It comprises small local communities, pleasant sandy beaches and a lot to see. Iron age excavations, «The Man from the Sea» sculpture, churches and tourist facilities. Route 5. Sortland – Stø (56 km). Øksnes offers among others fishing villages (You MUST see Nyksund) and, not least of all, the bird, seal and whale safaris out of Stø. It is possible to take the speed shuttle boat in Øksnes Vestbygd, providing a varied panorama of the natural surroundings and local rural community.

Cyclist Welcome companies: 9 Fjordcamp Tlf +47 76 13 76 40, post@fjordcamp.no www.fjordcamp.no Sortland Hotell Tlf: +47 76 10 84 00, post@sortlandhotell.no www.sortlandhotell.no Holmvik brygge Tlf: +47 76 13 47 96, post@nyksund.com www.nyksund.com/ Myre Hotell Tlf: +47 76 11 99 20, post@myre-hotell.no www.myre-hotell.no Huset på Yttersiden Tlf: +47 906 40 591, booking@yttersiden.no www.yttersiden.no Vesterålen Sjøhus Tlf: + 47 76 12 37 40, sjoehus@online.no www.visitsortland.no

Route 6. Sortland – Andenes (120 km). The art gallery, museum, outdoor religious service, pleasant sandy beaches, Andøya Rocket Launch facility, the HISNAKUL centre, Andenes lighthouse, nature safari, and not least of all, the whale safari at Andenes all make this trip a varied and fascinating treat. . cycling

27


© Ian R o bin s

© Trym Ivar Be r g s mo - w w w.vis it ve s t e ral e n.co m © An is h K apo o r

Culture Experiencing the local culture and art should be one of your primary goals when you visit Vesterålen. A large number of cultural events are arranged jointly through comprehensive collaboration of the local municipalities.

10

Volunteer organisations work to provide high-quality cultural experiences throughout the year. Have a look at the calendar of cultural events that you can find on Vesterålen Tourism’s website. A large number of varied local events, festivals and cultural days are well worth experiencing. User-friendly handbooks and brochures are useful guides to the art galleries and studios, museums and interesting sights that you find spread throughout the islands. Fishing has been an important resource for generations and is also the basis for much of the culture and local identity in Vesterålen. The informational series Encounter with Vesterålen, including sight-specific handbooks and brochures, provide detailed insight into this basis.

An abundance of art projects are also worth a visit. We might mention Artscape Nordland, with some of Nordland county’s most popular and frequently visited sculptures. In the region there is also a series of artistically decorated ­electrical transformer sheds, and on the seaward side of Vesterålen you will discover art installations designed and built using items washed ashore by the Gulf Stream. The literary decor on Sortland’s buildings is equally interesting: more than thirty texts written by young people now adorn the walls of the Blue City by the Sea.

Cultural events in Vesterålen We are able to offer a rich and varied cultural programme here in Vesterålen which includes music, art, theatre, film and the outdoor life. Concerts are held regularly and cover many genres, from classical music to jazz. Many professional artists are based here in Vesterålen with galleries, workshops and outlets. Painters, artists specialising in glass and jewellery, there are many exhibitions to visit. There are also many theatrical plays/revues ­presented throughout the year. We arrange many different festivals here. The Festival of Light, the Food Festival and the Storytellers Festival, to name but a few. There is a popular film milieu here, especially for children and youngsters, and in November we hold a film festival called Laterna Magica. For those interested in the outdoor life, there are many different activities on offer but we must give a special mention to the Arctic Sea Kayak Race which is a big annual event.

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www.visitvesteralen.com


Attractions GOD STREK

E5

EXHIBITION IN NYKSUND

60/30

Øksnes Museum Ungsmaløya, Nyksund (+47) 47 46 85 74

oksnes.museum@museumnord.no www.museumnord.no/oksnes F8

JENNESTAD, HISTORIC TRADING POST

This shop on the quay tells its own story. Authentic interior from the 1920–1980 period, steamship office, post office and mining. Sale of handicrafts, literature on local history, etc. 23.06 > 10.08 -

0

Sortland Museum - Jennestad handelssted (+47) 76 10 92 71 Jennestad, Sortland

sortland.museum@museumnord.no www.museumnord.no/sortland

Genuine

north norweGian

Diverse

enGaGinG

140 © T r o n d G . J o h n s e n

17.06 > 17.08 -

310 © B å r d Lø k e n

Tells the story of life in the fishing village, focusing on technology development and the harbour. Guided village tours at fixed ­times every day. Museum in Alsvåg opens on ­request all year round.

F9

NORWEGIAN FISH FARMING VISITOR CENTRE

01.01 > 31.12 -

249 © M a r t e n B r i l

Boat trips to salmon farms. Fish farming m ­ useum. Tunnels for children, computer games, under­ water camera, film, 12-metre long map showing Nordic fish farming in lights. Taster samples. 60/120

Akvakultur i Vesterålen, Gårdsøyvn. 32, (+47) 95 88 18 22 Blokken

post@akvakulturivesteralen.no www.akvakulturivesteralen.no E10

HURTIGRUTEN MUSEUM

01.01 > 31.12 -

201 © H u r t i g r u t e m u s e e t

The world’s most beautiful adventure started on 2 July 1893. The Hurtigruten Museum also features the now-ashore M/S Finnmarken (1956). Come and experience Hurtigruten’s history. 90/35

Hurtigrutemuseet, Richard Withs plass 1, (+47) 76 11 81 90 Stokmarknes

post@hurtigrutemuseet.no www.hurtigrutemuseet.no C9

THE FAIRYTALE FOREST

30/0 (+47) 47 46 85 64

bo.museum@museumnord.no www.museumnord.no/bo D11

ELEGANT VISIT

Visit the home of Christian Frederiksen, one of the region’s most prominent industrialists. Beautiful art and interior design. Guided tours. Historic multi-media show (mini documentary film). 01.01 > 31.12 -

50/0

Vesterålsmuseet, Maren Frederiksens (+47) 76 15 40 00 allé 1, Melbu

vesteraalsmuseet@museumnord.no www.museumnord.no/vestmus

082 © Øy s t e i n R y s s t

VINJE

nof@museumnord.no www.nofi.museum.no

Learn about the life of hunter Hilmar Nøis on Svalbard and the island’s unique geology. Next to the lighthouse and ‘Island Museum’ (installation art) – entry included in ticket price. Guided tours. 50/25 andoymuseet@museumnord.no www.museumnord.no/andoy

STOKMARKNES MELBU

Box 104, N-8459 Melbu Tel. (+47) 76 15 40 00 post@museumnord.no

www.museumnord.no

I1

THE POLAR MUSEUM AT ANDENES

Andøymuseet, Richard Withs gate 9, (+47) 76 11 54 32 Andenes

NYKSUND

SORTLAND

The history of the industry is shown in the huge herring oil tanks of a former factory. Exhibitions, films and multimedia displays, kids’ culture tank, concert tank, guided tours. 01.01 > 31.12 50/0 Norsk Fiskeindustrimuseum (+47) 76 15 40 00 Moloveien 1, Melbu

ANDENES

D11

NORWEGIAN FISHING INDUSTRY IN EXCITING FORMAT

01.01 > 05.06 09.06 > 31.12

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011 © M u s e u m N o r d / M H

Bø Museum Vinjesjøen, Bø

232 © S v e i n T e r j e K . E l i a s s e n

01.01 > 12.06 15.06 > 31.12

193 © B ø M u s e u m

The museum focuses on fairy-tales, sagas and oral storytelling. Crawl into the fairy-­ tale forest or visit the elves’ mountain. Meet Regine Normann, the ’storyteller of Nordland’. Visit the museum shop.

Andøymuseet Bø Museum Hurtigrutemuseet Jennestad handelssted Norsk Fiskeindustrimuseum Vesterålsmuseet Øksnes Museum

Andenes Vinje Stokmarknes Sortland Melbu Melbu Nyksund

Polar life and lighthouse. Adventure and storytelling. About the coastal highway no. 1. Old trading post. Gallery. Herring adventure. Concert in oil tank. North Norwegian entrepreneurial history. Unique fishing village.

museumnord.no/andoy museumnord.no/bo hurtigrutemuseet.no museumnord.no/sortland nofi.museum.no museumnord.no/vestmus museumnord.no/oksnes

culture

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© K arin Åmo s s a

A taste of Vesterålen Vesterålen most definitely has the resources and ingredients suitable for inclusion in a local, seasonally varied menu. Several of the dining establishments in the area have recognized the potential in using local food items from the fields and forests, the mountainsides, the moors, rivers and the open ocean.

Vesterålen Lamb – raised on pristine mountain pastures sprinkled with natural seaspray salt – has always been a hit on area menus. In recent years, however, the succulent meat of the rarer «villsauen» (feral sheep) has become increasingly popular – and not without good reason. Nonetheless, traditional game such as reindeer, elk, grouse and geese – hunted and processed in Vesterålen – remain quainter items and are very exclusive. The game is often served with local chanterelle mushrooms and with cloudberries for dessert – both of these gathered in the forests and on the moors of Vesterålen. We mustn’t forget to mention the local vegetables that are grown to a sweet flavour under the life-giving midnight sun… 30

I3

CAFÉ ALVELAND

Alveland AS, Bankveien 4, (+47) 99 61 18 45 Dverberg, Andøya

022 © f oto A lv e l a n d

Beautifully situated in the village of Dybda, on a district sheriff’s farm that’s over 100 years old. We sell soap with only natural ­ingredients and local produce like cloudberries and lingonberries. 15.06 > 15.08 post@alveland.no www.alveland.no G8

MARTHAHAUGEN FARM

With farm shop. Organic villsau (Old Norwegian Sheep). Open all year round, restaurant (advance booking for groups), fixed opening hours in farm shop. Natural hand-made cosmetics, villsau products, etc. 01.01 > 31.12 -

024 © M a r t h a h au g e n

11

Vesterålen is primarily a fish-producing region where enormous amounts of top-quality fish are caught, processed and exported. And when the distance from fishing boats and fish-farming pens to the kitchen counter is short, your dining experience is enhanced. Therefore, we invite you to the table – to enjoy fresh skrei cod with liver and roe, coalfish steak, halibut fillet, Arctic char, prawns, fried herring and whale steak. Sometimes, however, fish needs to be processed and treated in order to create the traditional, local delicacies – such as «boknafisk» (semi-dried cod), «lutefisk», freshly salted redfish, salt-cured herring or cured salmon. Whatever the item, freshness and quality are the very prerequisites for a maximally successful end product.

eating out

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Marthahaugen Gård, Øvre Ånstad vei 19, (+47) 91 64 71 70 Sortland

mdaljord@online.no www.marthahaugen.no G8

SAABYE’S LIBRARY AND HAMSUNS FOYER

Learn about Nobel laureate Knut Hamsun and the author Lars Saabye Christensen at our renovated culture hotel, with original sculptures, paintings, photographs and lithographs. 02.01 > 21.12 -

0

Sortland Hotell, Vesterålsgata 59, (+47) 76 10 84 00 Sortland

post@sortlandhotell.no www.sortlandhotell.no

www.visitvesteralen.com

036 © S o r t l a n d H ot e l l

Arktisk Meny («Arctic Menu») is a union of restaurants in Northern Norway, a stamp of quality for local ingredients, of which many of the dining establishments in Vesterålen are members.


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Buksnesfjord, Buksnesfjord

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(+47) 76 13 76 40

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Ringstad, Straumsjøen

(+47) 94 03 23 18

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Rådhusgata 26, Sortland

(+47) 76 20 10 40

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Ekspedisjonen Restaurant

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Nyksund

(+47) 48 11 80 68

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Nyksund

(+47) 76 13 47 96

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Nyksund

(+47) 97 72 53 98

40 www.marmelkroken.no

01.01 > 31.12

200 www.fjordcamp.no

01.01 > 31.12

38 www.yttersiden.no

01.01 > 31.12

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post@ekspedisjonen-as.no

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Nyksund Gjestehus AS

24.06 > 15.08

post@ekspedisjonen-as.no

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Holmvik Stua

booking@yttersiden.no

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CAPACITY

01.05 > 15.09 / 25.10 > 25.03 50 www.andoy-friluftssenter.no

post@fjordcamp.no

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Vesterveien 51, Sortland

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lisbeth.seppola@gmail.com

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Ekspedisjonen Lunsjbar

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booking@andoy-friluftssenter.no

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(+47) 957 65 739

Fjordcamp

Sortland Camping & Motell

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D OS EN SE F OO OO M U KI E D N RE NT TO D AF SH B R A M OO I A N ’ S E N AN A E E D I A L R A B RA M E G F A S F G I ROS E C E O I D O F OO Y R I U R E U E R S N E C D ER L ET D S I - E R E / P NS H & D L A D R A G I L C T N E R W AV S T F É OA S T S T A K Z Z R C E CO S H R I E H A N G E I N H A L SEASON E R E C A R B I FA B P I BA L I AL F I D W K I R OT LOC V C H A R H NO O

Andøy Friluftssenter AS Marmelkroken Kultur & Aktivitetssenter

RA

© Mar t e n Bril - w w w.vis it ve s t e ral e n.co m

© Mar t e n Bril - w w w.vis it ve s t e ral e n.co m

© Mar t e n Bril - w w w.vis it ve s t e ral e n.co m

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35 www.nyksund.com 44

post@nyksundgjestehus.no

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THE BEST IN SEAFOOD

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Torggt. 23, Sortland Espresso • Coffee • Tea • Lofoten Chocolate • Stone oven-baked bread from Eldhus Bakery • Delicacies from New Zealand and Italy

Welcome to

ekspedisjonen Monja & Ringo NYKSUND

Tel. +47 481 18 068 - post@nyksund-info.com E K S P E D I S J O N E N AT V E R T S B R Y G G A breakfast, coffee, lunch, á la carte, outdoor dining, bar, snacks

B & B NYKSUND

Welcome to Skipnes! Visit us and experience a special closeness to mountains, fjords, birds and fish, the midnight sun and more in historical and peaceful surroundings. The venerable old fishing village of Skipnes today offers rorbu fisherman cabin holidays and adventures. The village is located on a traffic-free island on the outer side of the Vesterålen island, well sheltered in a natural harbour. Tel: +47 76 13 28 55 - post@skipnes.com - www.skipnes.com

Tel. +47 481 18 068 - post@nyksund-info.com A C C O M M O D AT I O N I N N Y K S U N D spend a night as described in Astrid Lindgren’s novel

S O RT L A N D

Tel. +47 481 18 068 - post@nyksund-info.com E K S P E D I S J O N E N AT B L Å B R Y G G A coffe bar, luncheon bar, restaurant, outdoor dining

A W O RT H W H I L E E X P E R I E N C E A taste of Vesterålen

31


© Mar t e n Bril - w w w.vis it ve s t e ral e n.co m

winter in Vesterålen Although the sun does not appear over the horizon for nearly two months, winter in Vesterålen can be both colourful and exciting – with its blue, arctic light above white mountains and pink ocean water. But the dark season can also be trying and harsh, when winter storms hurl fists of ice in across land and peel asphalt from the road surfaces – and daylight flickers only fleetingly before it melts back into darkness. On the other hand, it is perhaps just such an encounter with this aspect of winter that lasts longest on our mental hard discs. Many even prefer winter and its seasonal activities – outdoors in the natural surroundings as well as indoors at cultural events. As our guest, you can also take advantage of winter activities.

12

The Samí culture in general has become an attraction in Vesterålen. Here you can try your skill at lasso throwing. Or you can enjoy Samí traditional foods based on reindeer meat, served around an open fire in a Samí lávvo tent and accompanied by joik singing. But to really try Samí traditions, you should try spending the night in a lávvo tent on a bed of birch branches and reindeer hide.

sea glitters phosphorescently and the moon is the only source of light. If you are an experienced kayaker looking for an outing in a sea kayak, there are tour operators who provide guided excursions in winter as well – with or without overnight accommodation. Experienced paddlers can also hire kayaks and equipment and do exploring on their own in the shoreline skerries of Vesterålen. Join a whale, moose-, photo- or/and eagle safari and experience eagles plunging to the surface of the sea to grasp a fleeing fish. These are the kinds of experiences that are remembered forever, especially if you have captured the happening on your camera’s memory card! We can also recommend winter-kayaking. © Ma r ten Bri l - w w w.v isit vester alen.com

Winter-activities The mountains of Vesterålen are made for skiing – whether it be on prepared ski trails or in the virgin snow – the mountains are easy to ascend and not dangerous for off-piste skiing. If you are a dedicated telemark-, rando- or snowboard-enthusiast, you will see opportunities for rapid descents everywhere you turn in the mountains. Contact a local expert; the local tourist information will gladly help you by providing the telephone numbers of local, experienced skiers. In Vesterålen there are a number of prepared skiing trails for trekking and cross country outings. The longest trails, which are also lit, are at Hadseløya, Åse on Andøy and in Sortlandmarka. The best time to ski in Vesterålen is February – April. During this period the days have once again become long enough that light is not a factor. The temperature at this time normally also stays below freezing, so that the snow is perfect for skiing on powder slopes.

Winter kayak paddling is undeniably quite different than kayaking under the midnight sun, perhaps even more fascinating when the 32

www.visitvesteralen.com


© In g a Sami- Siida

© Ivar St e ir o © Mar ten Bril - w w w.visit vesteralen.com

Northern lights Aurora polaris (polar light) is a ­physical phenomenon caused when the solar wind is stronger than normal, with great electrical discharges emitting electrically charged particles towards the earth. The particles are electrons and protons that create light as they collide with the ­gases in the earth’s atmosphere. Polar light is located at a height of between 90 and 180 km above the earth’s surface. The p ­ henomenon can be observed on the night skies in a belt running around the magnetic poles – the northern lights oval – and can be seen by us in the Northern Hemisphere. Polar light manifests itself as billowing light that changes in shape, c­ olour and intensity, from dark blue and hues of green and yellow, to red and orange. Polar light in the Northern Hemisphere is called aurora borealis (dawning red in the north) or the ­northern lights, while polar light in the Southern Hemisphere is called aurora australis or the southern lights. The northern lights come in many different colours. The colours reflect the gases in the middle atmosphere. The greenish-yellow colours, which are the most distinct and common for the northern lights, derive from oxygen. The red also comes mainly from oxygen, with the addition of nitrogen. The violet colour we often see at the bottom of the northern lights comes from nitrogen, and the same is true of most of the bluish colour. In Vesterålen you can capture the Northern Lights and the many colours the season brings, by taking photography courses.

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Winter fishing For centuries, arctic cod has been the most valuable species of fish for the people of North Norway, and the winter cod fishery from January to April is the most important ­seasonal fishery in all of Norway. For professional fishermen, the winter season at sea is synonymous with skrei fishing. And with modern, advanced boats and equipment, amateur fishermen have also been able to participate in the quest for this prima quality fish, because what’s special about this species is that one does not have to go far out to sea; skrei can be caught in fjords and close to land. There are many fishing lakes in Vesterålen, where trout and Arctic char are the dominant species. Contact local experts for information on ice conditions on any given lake! winter in vesterålen

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© Trym Ivar Be r g s mo - w w w.vis it ve s t e ral e n.co m

On an exploratory trip in Vesterålen H3

STAVE HOT POOLS, 38°C

25.05 > 25.08 -

261 © S tav e B e a c h S au n a

Lovely 38°C outdoor hot tubs with magnificent views of the Arctic Ocean. Open every day! Only 15 minutes from Hvalsafari. Special family prices from 12:00. Book your own hot tub today! 200/100

Stave Camping & Hot Pools (+47) 92 60 12 57 Stave, Bleik

info@stavecamping.no www.stavecamping.no H3

BEACH SAUNA AT STAVE, 75°C

13

25.05 > 25.08 -

291 © S tav e H ot P o o l s

Right on the beach! Enjoy the relaxing sauna then go for a swim in the Arctic Ocean! Everyone who swims gets the ’Arctic Swim Team’ certificate. Special family prices between 16:00–18:00. Book today! 200/100

Stave Camping & Hot Pools (+47) 92 60 12 57 Stave, Bleik

info@stavecamping.no www.stavecamping.no

Activities G8

SAMI EXPERIENCES

150/50

Inga Sami Siida, Kvalsaukan 1, (+47) 90 87 75 58 Sortland

lailainga@hotmail.com www.inga-sami-siida.no G8

ARCTIC NATURE AND LIGHT

Experience a Northern Norway summer night under the midnight sun. Chase the Northern Lights from the shoreline. Embrace sea and mountain, local coastal culture, hospitality and food traditions. 23.05 > 22.07 15.10 > 30.03

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Vesterålen Sjøhus – Sortland Ånstadsjøen, Sortland (+47) 76 12 37 40

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sjoehus@online.no www.visitsortland.no

Listening to the joik (a traditional form of song) of the Sami reindeer herders on Hinnøya can be just as thought-provoking and relaxing as easing into a bath tub in a spa. The local boats take you to smallest settlements off the beaten track. Clean air and crystal clear waters in an environment that has fisheries, teeming bird and animal life and whale safaris will enhance your experience. You can also walk or cycle while the midnight sun provides 24 hours of daylight. Winter has become the new summer in Vesterålen. The sight of the magical Northern Lights with the white mountains reflected in the sea on a winter night will be a memory that will stay with you always. G8

WINTER COLOURS IN VESTERÅLEN

059 © M a r i t A s b j ø r n s e n

01.01 > 31.12 -

060 © A r i l d I n g a

With lavvo Sami tents, Sami food and a chance to get close to the reindeer herd. Help feed the reindeer, learn about Sami life, mythology and culture. We make group visits extra-special.

Around the next bend and over the next elegant bridge, there is always something new to enjoy in Vesterålen. White sandy beaches, dramatic mountains and endless sea views that just take your breath away. Small museums and galleries celebrate our fishing culture and cultural heritage, while Akva­ kultur i Vesterålen (Aquaculture in Vesterålen) and the brand new virtual spaceship, Romskipet Aurora, showcase hypermodern things like aquaculture and space travel.

The Northern Lights, whale and eagle safaris, working fishing villages, cross-country skiing on prepared trails, mountaintop trips, deep-sea and ice fishing, and festivals all year round. 16.09 > 14.04

Vesterålen Reiseliv

turistinfo@vestreg.no www.visitvesteralen.com

www.visitvesteralen.com

© Mar te n B ri l

Hot Pools & Beach Sauna


© Trym Ivar Be r gs mo – w w w.vis it ve s t e rale n.co m

The store with local food, arts and crafts from Vesterålen.

REINDEER & SAMI CULTURE

Experience, take part and have a taste of Sami culture and reindeer herding in an authentic Sami environment - only 8 min. from Sortland centre! Join us in the middle of the reindeer herd and experience these unique animals at close range. Exhibits. Dining featuring Sami foods. Open: 15.06-31.08 - at. 10.00-15.00 The rest of the year: at request Prices from NOK 150 pr. pers.

Experience Offersøy! At Offersøy you can experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing – and Vesterålens best boat hire! We offer activities and experiences, accommodation in rorbu, cabins and rooms. Café and restaurant. Welcome to a pleasant stay at Offersøy!

andøy friluftssenter • Nature safari in summer and winter with local guide • Arctic light safari in summer and winter • Accommodation in fantastic natural surroundings • Fish and game restaurant with fresh, local produce from Vesterålen Summer season: 01.05 - 20.09 Winter season: 05.02 - 25.03

Photo: Andøy Friluftssenter, Phillipp Hunter

Offersøy, N-8412 Vestbygd - +47 76 93 39 00 - post@offersoy.no - www.offersoy.no

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Farm Food Cuisine NOK

Fly to Norwegian Food Prints

Buksnesfjord - +47 76 14 88 04 - +47 91 53 51 80 Booking: booking@andoy-friluftssenter.no www.andoy-friluftssenter.no

Vesterålen

from

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Fly with us from Bodø and Tromsø to Andenes and Stokmarknes. Book at wideroe.no

On an exploratory trip in Vesterålen

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© Øys tein Lu nd e I ngva l d s en / w w w.nord nor ge.com / Bø

www.visitvesteralen.com


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