Smøla, north of Kristiansund, is the island where sea meets sky and nature meets civilisation. With its prairie-like landscape and distinctive archipelago, Smøla is a fairy-tale destination for active holidaymakers.
Smøla is known for its distinctive culture and traditions. It is the realm of sea eagles and its multitude of reefs and islets are a paddler's paradise. Perhaps you’ve heard of the famous fishing village Veiholmen, its rows of houses still home to coastal inhabitants. This fishing village, sea eagles, and a kayaking eldorado are just some of things that await you on Smøla. The island is also widely known for the beautiful light that bathes the landscape and the northern lights that appear in autumn.
A coastal community steeped in tradition
Smøla offers authentic fishing village holidays in an unusual and stimulating landscape. The island is a paradise for sea fishing and many accommodation places offer fishing experiences, with both a guide and boat hire. On Smøla you will find an unpretentious and vibrant coastal community keeping cultural traditions alive, and in 2009, large parts of the island were given conservation status.
The island is situated by the open sea and has boat services to Kristiansund and Trondheim. The main island (home to the municipal centre Hopen), and more than 5,800 small islands, islets and skerries, give this area a unique character you won't find anywhere else in the world.
The fishing village Veiholmen
The vibrant fishing village of Veiholmen was once the largest fishing village south of Lofoten. Today, the village is home to around 300 inhabitants, who make a living from fishing and tourism on this little island, or 'skjæret' (the skerry), as the locals call it. Visiting Veiholmen is a wonderful experience, whatever the weather.
Kayaking offers a unique way to experience this Atlantic archipelago, letting you view the island community from afar and perhaps even encounter sea eagles. There’s a large eagle population on Smøla and many visitors join a photo safari with Smøla Naturopplevelser to get a closer look at these magnificent birds.
Culture in the mouth of the fjord
Throughout the summer, Smøla has a packed cultural calendar, spearheaded by Gurisenteret’s open-air play ‘Fru Guri av Edøy’ (Lady Guri of Edøy). It tells the gripping story of strong women bound by faith, love, tragedy and happiness in an unforgettable show.
