Herdla: Coastal Landscape, Birdlife and History

Herdla combines a striking coastal landscape with a bird area, church history and the historic Herdla Fort. This gives you a choice of different focuses when planning your trip: observing nature along the coast, trails and activities at the fort, and traces of history.

Coastal Landscape and Birdlife

Herdla is a moraine area with extensive deposits of unconsolidated material. On the west side is Vestrefjæra, a pebble beach. The shallow beaches form an extensive tidal zone that is attractive to migratory waders. The coast and tides shape the natural environment you can experience during a visit.

More than 240 bird species have been recorded on Herdla over time. This is a cumulative total and may change as further records are made. A birdwatching hide allows you to observe and photograph birds, and enjoy a packed meal there.

One seasonal protection rule is important when planning your route: access is prohibited in parts of the Herdla Nature Reserve and in the seabird reserves from 15 April to 30 September. Check the current regulations before your visit.

Trails and Activities at Herdla Fort

The former Herdla Fort is now a recreation area with trails and viewpoints. The paved path around Herdla Fort is easily accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. The area has 44 parking spaces and accessible toilets. There are several picnic areas with tables and benches along the trails and paths.

The area also offers a range of activities: there is a via ferrata route with several zip lines and a disc golf course. Herdla is also a starting point for kayaking trips. There are good fishing spots on the north side of the Herdla Fort area. These activities complement the quieter options of using the trails and viewpoints.

Church, Torpedo Battery and Open-Air Stage

Herdla Church is mentioned in a letter from Pope Eugene dating from 1146. A larger Herdla Church was built in 1863 on the foundations of the earlier church. The two dates mark different stages in Herdla’s church history.

Another historic site is the protected Herdla Torpedo Battery. It illustrates the history of the late Cold War, as well as developments in military history and weapons technology. A guided tour of the torpedo battery lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes; check the current museum schedule before your visit. Krateret, an open-air stage, is also located at Herdla Fort.

Herdla on Askøy

The Askøy på langs hiking trail also runs all the way to Herdla. On Askøy, the approximately 37-kilometre route runs from Kleppestø, over the island’s highest points and through its densest forests, to the scenic destination at Herdla. Its approximate length and route across the island give the trail a different focus from the paths around the fort: it crosses Askøy and ends at Herdla.

Discover more destinations: Davanger, Strusshamn, Hauglandshella, Kjerrgarden, Kleppestø, Hetlevik, Ask, Ramnanger.

For the main travel overview: Askøy.