Myre: Harbour, Church and Cycling Routes in Vesterålen

Myre lies in the northwest of Langøya, on the eastern side of Prestfjord. The fjord cuts into the land between Langøya and Skogsøya. Myre is one of the largest fishing villages in Vesterålen and has a significant fish-processing industry. Its main product is frozen fillets.

Harbour, fishing and architecture

The harbour showcases the working coastal culture of Northern Norway: maritime tradition and modern fish production come together here. Fishing and processing thus shape two sides of the village—from coastal culture to industrial production.

Another way to see Myre is to visit Myre Church. Built in 1979 from concrete and glulam, the church has a fan-shaped design. The architect was Arne Aursand. Its shape and two building materials give the church a distinctive architectural profile.

Fresh skrei, or Atlantic cod, is served at the restaurant of Myre Kysthotell. As the menu may change, check before your visit whether skrei is being served.

Tours and cycling from Myre

The express boat tour “Øyhopping i Vesterålen” departs from Myre’s express boat quay and passes through fishing villages in Øksnes. It offers the chance to visit islands and learn about coastal culture and history. Allow about three hours for the round trip, including the return to Myre; the duration depends on how many places the boat calls at on each trip. Check departure times and ticket conditions before travelling.

Cyclists can also use Myre as a starting point. The cycling route from Myre to Nyksund is 13 kilometres long, crosses gently rolling terrain and reaches just over 50 metres at its highest point. A cycling tour through five fishing villages also starts in Myre; the routes lead from Myre to Stø and Nyksund. Check route information and road conditions before setting off.

BUA Øksnes offers residents and visitors to Øksnes Municipality free loans of sports and leisure equipment. The loan centre is in the basement of “Huset for alle” in Myre. Check opening hours and available equipment before visiting.

Excursions in the wider Øksnes destination

Øksnes Municipality consists of 220 islands, islets and skerries. The Dronningruta, a marked hiking trail between the historic fishing villages of Nyksund and Stø, is part of this wider destination. The circular route is about 15 kilometres long and takes five to eight hours. Along the way, the terrain alternates between mountains, shoreline, bog, beach and rocky ground. There is no access to drinking water along the route, so bring enough drinks and, if possible, a packed lunch.

The Anda Nature Reserve is also part of the wider Øksnes destination. It lies at the northern end of Langøya, is a Ramsar site and is home to one of the largest puffin colonies in Nordland. To protect nesting seabirds, landing on Anda is prohibited from 15 April to 31 July. Check the rules in force before planning a visit.

Another seasonal activity in Øksnes is the Stø Whale & Arctic Wildlife Safari. It departs from Stø and searches for whales, puffins, seabirds, seals and other marine animals. The safari runs during the summer season from June to August; weather, sea conditions and availability affect whether it operates. Sightings also depend on conditions. Check dates and availability before planning.

A base for your stay

If you’re looking for a hotel in Myre, the starting points for your planned activities can help you choose. The express boat tour and cycling routes start in Myre; the Dronningruta runs between Nyksund and Stø, and the safari departs from Stø. This makes it easier to distinguish between activities with different starting points when planning your stay.

Discover more destinations: Sandset, Klo, Øksnes, Stø, Sørvågen, Alsvåg.

Back to the wider travel overview: Øksnes.