Værlandet and Bulandet are connected by the Nordsjøporten road – a lifeline for the island communities and, at the same time, a truly special journey through Norway’s outermost coastal landscape. Along the way, you’ll encounter rich wildlife, especially in the Sørværet Nature Reserve. With a bit of luck, you may spot seals, otters, sea eagles and deer.
The Værlandet and Bulandet archipelago
The Værlandet and Bulandet archipelago is the westernmost inhabited community in Norway. These islands attract cyclists, paddlers, anglers and hikers seeking tranquillity, wide horizons and close contact with the sea.
Bulandet is the westernmost active fishing community in the country, with around 230 inhabitants. At the local museum “Bulandet i fortid og notid”, you can gain insight into everyday life and the history of fishing in the area.
On Værlandet, around 150 people live here. Fishing and aquaculture are important industries, alongside tourism and the export of greenstone breccia.
Cycling across a chain of bridges
The road between Værlandet and Bulandet is a popular cycling route. On this 11-kilometre ride, you cycle across a chain of beautiful bridges. The scenery is dramatic, and along the way you pass art installations, charming boathouses and narrow sounds. From the six bridges connecting the islands, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of islands and open sea. The cycle ride can also be combined with an island-hopping trip to some of the westernmost islands in Norway.
Bicycle rental at the Joker stores
The Joker Værlandet and Joker Bulandet stores are located at opposite ends of this beautiful archipelago. Joker Værlandet is easily accessible when arriving by ferry from Askvoll, while Joker Bulandet is convenient if you’re island hopping between Solund and Bulandet.
You can both rent and return your bike at either store – meaning you can choose to cycle one way or return the same route. Read more about island hopping by bike here.
Hiking on Værlandet and Bulandet
On Værlandet and Bulandet, you’ll find several marked trails adapted for walking in nature. The Nordsjøløypa is one of the longest routes, featuring both flat terrain and a few summits. Follow the signposting along the way and enjoy stunning viewpoints that are well worth the effort once you reach the top.
How to get here
Take the ferry from Askvoll/Fure to Værlandet, then continue on foot or by bike/car across the bridges to Bulandet. Walking one way takes a couple of hours – a journey you’re unlikely to forget.
Accommodation
There are several accommodation options on both Værlandet and Bulandet. We recommend booking in advance and taking the time to explore the area over several days.
Fjordkysten Regional- and Geopark – a UNESCO Global Geopark
Værlandet and Bulandet are part of Fjordkysten Regional- and Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark. The park stretches across dramatic fjords, open coastal landscapes and impressive mountain formations along Norway’s western edge.
