Paddling the Helgeland Coast

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Welcome to Adventure Fix, the newsletter that helps you discover extraordinary journeys and experiences across the globe. 

Today, we’re heading to northern Norway to paddle the Helgeland Coast.

Spanning between Trondheim and Bodø, this region is known for its rugged beauty, consisting of over 12,000 islands along the Norwegian Sea.

Kayaking the Helgeland Coast

Helgeland has amazing scenery, making it a popular place among sea kayakers for quick day trips or longer island-hopping adventures.

From rugged mountains standing tall, fjords cutting through the land, and a coastline that's a mix of rocky cliffs and soft sandy beaches.

The scenery changes around every corner, creating this epic blend of dramatic landscapes that seem straight out of a painting.

The interplay of light and shadow on the cliffs, especially during the midnight sun in summer or the Northern Lights in winter, adds an extra layer of beauty.

The white sandy beaches and crystal clear water make you believe you are in a tropical part of the world.

Paddlers come across all sorts of arctic wildlife such as seals, porpoises, puffins, guillemots razor bills, and sea eagles.

Most nights are spent in tents but many tours offer an option to add a touch of luxury and check into a hotel during the trip on a very special island, complete with a 3-course dinner. 

Explore More

If you would like to learn more, here are some links you can check out to get more information about paddling the Helgeland Coast.

• Helgeland: A Kayaking Adventure (video)

• Sea Kayak Northern Helgeland, Norway (article)

How to Paddle the Helgeland Coast

There are several ways to explore this part of Norway’s coastline, first, choose your vessel: kayak or canoe.

Paddlers can either bring their boats, rent gear or go on a guided tour.

Many paddlers choose to camp on the islands or use accommodations available in nearby coastal towns.

Some islands may have designated camping areas, while others might be more remote and require careful planning for overnight stays.