Evening light at Selvika.
Evening light at Selvika. Photo: Frid-Jorunn Stabell, Statens vegvesen

Towards the farthest north

A supplement to the North Capet; the end point Havøysund and the islands beyond offer a encounter with a thriving community on the coast of Finnmark.

The road out to Havøysund is fascinatingly varied. Parts of the road traverse a barren rocky landscape with the Arctic Ocean on one side and rugged outcrops on the other. The landscape is stark and dramatic, but in the midst of this apparent barrenness you may get to see both sea eagles and reindeer. The drive is a special experience, different from anything else. Located at 71° north, the little fishing village of Havøysund is literally the end of the road.

In combination with the Hurtigruten Coastal Express and Norwegian Scenic Route Varanger, this route can form part of  one of Norway’s most beautiful circular trips.

Travel information

Length
67 km
MASL
0 – 233

Norwegian Scenic Route Havøysund runs from Kokelv to Havøysund [889]. The Hurtigruten coastal express calls at Havøysund daily. This allows you to plan round trips combining several Norwegian Scenic Routes. 

For cyclists: The route follows the coastline, but includes a few steep hills across the fell. Beware of strong winds. It is possible to combine Norwegian Scenic Route Havøysund with National Cycle Route 1. The route also coincides with EuroVelo 1 «Atlantic Coast Route». The route is not signposted as a cycle route.

Traffic and road information

Telephone +47 815 48 991

Traffic alerts in map (Norwegian only)
Overview Scenic Routes closed in winter season

GPS, Havøysund:
70.992778, 24.654444
GPS, Kokelv:
70.6109328, 24.722849

You can also extend the trip by taking the Måsøy express boat (Måsøyekspressen) to the Rolvsøy (Gunnarnes quay), Ingøya or Måsøya islands. It is definitely worth the trip. If you want to go to Måsøya, you have to telephone 480 23 948 and let them know that you are taking the boat to Måsøy or that you need to be picked up there.

Experiences

It is the sea and fishing that has been the main industry for the people of Havøysund, and deep sea fishing is also what attracts many people to the area. Here at the edge of the Barents Sea you can experience the midnight sun in summer and the northern lights in winter. The adventurous should take the boat from Havøysund to the islands of Ingøy, Rolvsøya and Måsøy. Hjelmsøystauren, one of northern Europe's largest bird rocks, is also worth a visit.

A half-hour walk from Havøysund can take you to the island's highest point, Havøygavlen, with views towards the Arctic Ocean and nearby islands. A hike to Storvika is also an easy walk from Havøysund, taking you out to cliffs and skerries in the weather-beaten landscape on the southwestern part of Havøya. In the northeast of the island you will find the historic Russehula cave.

Useful links

The 18 Norwegian Scenic Routes

Norwegian Scenic Routes are roads that run through unique Norwegian nature. Along the roads you will find artworks, viewpoints and rest areas with innovative architecture in beautiful landscapes.

View all Scenic Routes