Andøya

On the island of Andøya you can wander along some of Norway’s most beautiful beaches and look out over the still waters of the ocean with the midnight sun as your sole companion. This is a trip that is designed for enjoyment. The road itself follows a broad shelf of cultivated land where people have put down roots between the wide ocean and the jagged peaks. If you’re lucky you might see seals, whales and eagles from your car window. In the late summer you can try tasting wonderful cloudberries on the moorland that stretches towards the mountains, or earlier in the summer you can visit the bird cliff on the island of Bleiksøya. The Gulf Stream makes for a hospitable climate and turns the ocean into an abundant source of food for a rich variety of bird and animal life. Here you can also discover some little-known highlights such as the tiny fishing village of Bleik. Between Nordmæla and Nøss you will find the rock formation Bukkekjerka, where nature itself has contrived to build a natural altar and pulpit. Andøya also provides a fine stretch of road for cyclists and if you want to view the island from the sea, there are lots of opportunities for kayaking.

History

Fishing and fish processing have been Andøya’s main industries but the climate has also favoured agriculture. The armed forces have played an important role in the community, and the air-base was built with NATO funds. Andenes lighthouse has been a landmark since 1859.

Experiences

Spaceship Aurora is a completely new attraction for the public at the Andøya Space Center enabling you to learn more about outer space and the northern lights. Maybe not everyone thinks of Norway as a space nation but since the launching of its first research rocket in 1962, Andøya has been at the centre of an exciting part of our space travel history. For those who prefer dry land, picking cloudberries or bird watching are good alternatives. If you prefer the sea, we recommend deep-sea fishing or a whale safari – both great alternatives.

Cycling

Along this scenic route you will have a magnificent view most of the way. It is relatively easy to cycle, but you should check the weather forecast, not to mention the speed and direction of the wind before you decide where to start. A stop at Bleik, with a walk on the beach and along the old settlement, is highly recommended. The viewpoints at Kleivodden and Bukkekjerka are also worth a visit.

Norwegian Scenic Route Andøya is part of National Cycle Route 1, which runs along the entire coast of Norway. From Bergen to Nordkapp the route also coincides with the EuroVelo 1 «Atlantic Coast Route». The route is signposted.

Hiking

The best way to experience the contrasting landscape of Andøya is to take a hike along the exposed shoreline. Enjoy the midnight sun from the island’s most popular peak, Måtinden, with a view of the beautiful beach in Høyvika Bay below. Feel the sand between your toes on Bleik Beach, or walk among the ancient moraines in Bleikmorenen Nature Reserve. Kvasstinden and Gavltinden, Andøya’s highest and more challenging peaks, sit to the south and offer panoramic views of the Vesterålen archipelago.   In the north, a short hike will take you to Andhauet, where you will have Andenes and the open sea laid out before you. On foot you have plenty of options to explore Andøya on your own and create your own unique experiences.

You will find more great roadside hikes in the Outtt hiking guide.