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The Island-hopping paradise furthest west in Norway

Summer
Last updated: 08.05.2025
to personer står på toppen av eit fjell. eine personen peiker utover. utsikta viser mot et anna stort fjell som står plassert midt i sjøen. det er blått hav rundt, grøn, gul og oransje nyanser i landskapet, og grått fjell.
© Visit Fjordkysten og Sunnfjord
|© Visit Fjordkysten og Sunnfjord

Nowhere else in the world offers the same combination of dramatic landscapes as the Norwegian west coast. Here, you can start your day in a quiet fjord surrounded by steep mountains, hike in the highlands with views over the open sea – and end the evening on a small island at the edge of the ocean. It’s this contrast that makes the journey truly unique – and creates the kind of memories you’ll carry with you forever.

Far out west in Norway, where the mainland meets the open ocean, lies a true island-hopping paradise. Here, you’ll find a maze of island communities connected by bridges and coastal roads, offering endless views toward the horizon and the calm pulse of a coastal life that moves in harmony with nature.

This is the place for those who dream of a journey off the beaten track – by bike, kayak, or hiking boots. Between mountains and shoreline, fishing huts and coastal culture, you’ll experience the essence of Western Norway’s charm, where history lives in the walls and the views never stop impressing.
Island hopping here isn’t just about getting from A to B – it’s about sensing the character of every place along the way.

Read about our suggested route below the map

  1. Hyllestad→
  2. Solund→
  3. Værlandet og Bulandet→
  4. Askvoll→
  5. Florø→
  6. Måløy→
1.

Hyllestad →

Duration:

Start your journey from Bergen. You can take the express boat to Rysjedalsvika or follow the E39 to Lavik and continue toward beautiful Hyllestad – located on the far northern side of the Sognefjord. Here, a varied landscape awaits you, with peaceful natural gems, majestic mountain formations, rich cultural heritage, and true western Norwegian charm.

Hyllestad offers experiences for all ages. Bring the family to Indrefjord Gard, where you can get close to animals and rural life – a lovely outing for curious minds both young and old. Slow down and enjoy peaceful summer days in the lush and atmospheric garden of Hjertebladhagen, run by Merete. In this green, bird-filled oasis, you can take a deep breath and simply be. It’s one of those quiet places in nature where time stands still.

Hyllestad is also known for its unique millstone production – an industry that thrived for nearly 1,000 years and shaped both the landscape and local society. At the Millstone Park (Kvernsteinsparken), you can walk among the largest Viking Age and medieval quarries in Scandinavia. Here, you’ll see the traces of hard craftsmanship that helped shape history, with the sea and mountains as your backdrop.

If you’re looking for one of the most thrilling mountain adventures in the region, Lihesten awaits. This dramatic and iconic peak rises like a monumental wall into the sky and has become a landmark for hikers and photographers alike. With a variety of trails and routes, you can spend anything from an afternoon to several days exploring Lihesten – from airy ridgelines with sweeping views, to quiet valleys overlooking the fjord landscape.

Still, you don’t need to seek out steep terrain to enjoy spectacular nature. Hyllestad also has several accessible trails that offer incredible views of fjords, mountains, and sea. These hikes are perfect if you’re looking for a slower pace, yet still want to experience the best of Western Norway’s nature.

Tre jenter går rundt i hagen og kikkar og luktar på blomene. Foto
Hjertebladhagen | © Steen foto
2.

Solund →

Duration:

In Solund, on the westernmost edge of Norway, you’ll get close to both raw nature and vibrant coastal culture – an experience that touches both body and soul.

In Solund, adventure awaits: paddle between 1,700 islands, islets, and skerries, go on a wild sheep safari in the coastal landscape, and dive into the living history of the coast. In summer, you can enjoy the highlights – a lighthouse safari to Utvær and island hopping with the popular postal boat between Solund, Bulandet, and Værlandet.
After spending a few days exploring Solund, the journey continues by postal boat to Bulandet.

sauer som ligger i front. bak sauene er det eit gjerde, grønt og gult gras, kvite hus og eit fyrtårn i enden. fyrtårnet er høgt, raudt og skin foran den blå himmelen.
Utvær | © Visit Fjordkysten og Sunnfjord
3.

Værlandet og Bulandet →

Duration:

After an unforgettable journey with the postal boat from Solund, new adventures await – this time on two wheels.
In Bulandet, you are literally at the far western edge of Norway – and here begins your cycling tour through the country’s westernmost inhabited island communities: Bulandet and Værlandet.

Did you know the archipelago consists of 365 islands, islets and skerries – one for each day of the year? Here, you can enjoy peaceful days filled with small discoveries and big views. Walk to the Gjørøy lighthouse and feel the sea breeze, snap a photo with the popular scallop shell sculptures, and stop for a delicious meal at one of the cosy local cafés along the route. The landscape is open, wild, and stunning – the perfect backdrop for your ride.

If you’d like to climb Alden – also known as The Norwegian Horse – you can contact one of the local accommodation providers. They’ll be happy to help arrange transport to the trailhead.

When you're ready for the next stage, take the ferry from Værlandet to Askvoll – and continue your journey with new nature experiences and cultural encounters in the heart of FjordKysten.

to personer står på toppen av eit fjell. eine personen peiker utover. utsikta viser mot et anna stort fjell som står plassert midt i sjøen. det er blått hav rundt, grøn, gul og oransje nyanser i landskapet, og grått fjell.
© Visit Fjordkysten og Sunnfjord
4.

Askvoll →

Duration:

The ferry from Værlandet to Askvoll is more than just transportation – it’s an experience in itself. During the crossing, you’ll get up close to the iconic mountain Alden, The Norwegian Horse, which rises steeply from the sea. You’ll glide past Brurastakken, a mountain known for its striped “skirt” in black, white, and green – a geological masterpiece you won’t soon forget. And with a bit of luck, you might even spot pilot whales or other sea creatures crossing the fjord in their natural element.

Once you arrive in Askvoll, a world of experiences opens up – whether you’re looking for peace and quiet or outdoor exploration.

Head to Atløy and hike up Brurastakken from land – a rewarding tour with stunning views and fascinating geology. Visit the charming village of Holmedal, home to the world-renowned Helle knife factory, where craftsmanship and nature go hand in hand. In Rivedal, you’ll find the statue of Ingólfur Arnarson, the Viking who founded Iceland’s first settlement – a powerful reminder of the coast’s role in Norse history.

If you're in the mood for a hike, set out for Blåfjell, where a panoramic view over fjords, mountains, and sea awaits. Prefer culture? Two inspiring cultural walks are ready for you: one in the centre of Askvoll, following in the footsteps of painter Anders Askevold, and one in Stongfjorden, which takes you through Norway’s early industrial era.

And when evening comes, you can sit back with a soft-serve ice cream by the water at Askvoll Sjøbuer Mat og Drikke, watching boats glide quietly by in the golden light of the setting sun.

alden i solnedgang
Alden | © Visit FjordKysten og Sunnfjord
5.

Florø →

Duration:

From fjords to coastal city life – experience Florø.

After a few wonderful days in Askvoll, continue your journey by express boat to Florø – Norway’s westernmost town, where coastal culture, open sea and small-town charm meet. Right on the edge of the ocean, you’ll find a lively town centre surrounded by spectacular islands and fjords – and a landscape full of experiences all year round.

A town shaped by the sea and culture.

Florø has a strong connection to the sea and its history. The town offers a vibrant cultural life with local festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year. A visit to the Coastal Museum gives you a vivid insight into maritime history and coastal life through the ages – a great introduction to the unique identity of the region.

Island gems just outside the city.

Florø is the gateway to an entire archipelago. Head out to the dramatic island of Kinn, where you can see the iconic Kinnaklova – a natural split in the mountain that forms a majestic silhouette against the sky. Kinnaklova was even featured in the blockbuster film Dune, and the hike here combines history with breathtaking views.

On the lush island of Svanøy, a completely different atmosphere awaits. Once home to nobles and bishops, the island is now known for the Norwegian Deer Centre, where you can get up close to majestic red deer in their natural habitat.

A night you won’t forget.

For a truly special overnight stay, travel to the island of Reksta and spend the night in one of the unique Birdbox cabins – small, beautifully designed huts with large windows and spectacular views. Here, you can fall asleep to the sound of the ocean and wake up with nature right outside your door.

Florø sentrum. Båtane Atløy og Loyal ligg til kai. I gjestebrygga er det ein del båtar. Vi ser kyrkja og Lisjeåsen og Storeåsen som ligg bak kyrkja. Foto.
6.

Måløy →

Duration:

The journey along Norway’s west coast continues – from Florø, you can take the Coastal Express Bus or the express boat to Måløy, and the journey itself is an experience. Along the way, you’ll come face to face with the forces of nature – from calm seas and golden beaches to dramatic waves and storms crashing against lighthouse walls. This is the coast as it truly is – raw, beautiful, and alive.

Måløy – shaped by the sea

In Måløy, the proximity to the sea has left its mark on the landscape, the industry, and the people. Here, you’ll find a world of contrasts. Just outside the town centre lies Refviksanden – a 1.5 km stretch of powdery white sand, considered one of Norway’s finest beaches. On sunny days, it’s a paradise for families and sunseekers alike – and the perfect stop for those who want to enjoy peace and quiet with their toes in the sand.

A short distance from the centre, you’ll find Vågsberget – a historic trading post and inn that tells the story of coastal life and travel. Nearby, in the shoreline, you’ll also find Kannesteinen – the iconic goblet-shaped rock that has been sculpted by waves, weather, and time for thousands of years. It’s one of the most photogenic landmarks along the coast.

Adventure and adrenaline on the ocean’s edge

For those seeking thrills and excitement, Måløy Adventure offers a range of activities – from ocean rafting to guided experiences in the area. If you’d like to paddle between islets and skerries, or try coasteering – climbing, jumping, and swimming along the coast – Sjøbris Adventure is the place to go. Here, experienced guides and real coastal enthusiasm await.

And afterward? Relax in the sauna and enjoy the view of the majestic coastline – the perfect way to end a day full of salt, sun, and unforgettable impressions.

Dronebilde som er tatt frå sjøen med utsikt innover til stranda og vidare innover dalen. Innafor stranda ligg dei grøne bøane på rad og rekke. Lenger inne ser vi eit vatn. Kring vatnet er det høge fjell. Foto

Be inspired for your journey

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Unique accommodations in FjordKysten & Sunnfjord

Wake up to the sound of the sea and fall asleep to the whisper of the mountains – an unforgettable stay in the wild and beautiful nature of Western Norway awaits you.

FjordKysten and Sunnfjord: A Paradise for Fishing Enthusiasts

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Fjordkysten and Sunnfjord offer one of the richest and most varied freshwater fishing experiences in Norway. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and deep forests, fishing enthusiasts find a range of species in crystal-clear waters.

Nature and culture that makes you feel alive

Nature and culture that makes you feel alive

Fjord Coast & Sunnfjord invite you not only to explore, but to really get a sense of being alive.

Hardly anyone knows about this region - yet!

Hardly anyone knows about this region - yet!

Fjord Coast & Sunnfjord is a hidden gem in the far west of Norway, which we would like to share with you

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