Longva: Kayak Route and Fishing History

Get to know Longva through two distinctive aspects: the fishing history around Gunnabuda and a kayak route on Longvafjord that starts and ends at Gunnabuda. Nearby, you’ll also find trails and seasonal activities on Flemsøy/Skuløy. This gives you plenty of options for planning your trip, from a historic visit to time on the water and outdoor activities along the coast and in forest and mountain areas.

Gunnabuda and the history of fishing

Gunnabuda is located in a former fish-processing plant, which is now used to serve tourists. In Haram Municipality’s cultural heritage plan for Flemsøy/Skuløy, Gunnabuda is listed as a cultural heritage site associated with the fishing industry. Fish dishes are served, including klippfisk (dried and salted cod) and fish caught with longlines from local suppliers.

Gunnabuda offers visitors interested in history guided tours of the old workers’ accommodation on the upper floor. Confirm availability directly in advance. The story of Tomas Longva is also connected to the place: he later moved to Longva on Flemsøy/Skuløy, took over a farm there, and adopted the name Longva. A memorial stone to him stands approximately at the site of the former farm, Longvatunet.

Kayak route and fjord conditions

The “Padletur på Longvafjorden” route starts and ends at Gunnabuda in Longva and passes through relatively sheltered waters. A breakwater protects Longvafjord from swell and waves from the open sea. The kayak route can be paddled regardless of the water level; it is not recommended when winds exceed a fresh breeze. In good conditions, it is considered straightforward for people with kayaking experience. Check local sea conditions before setting out.

With a little luck, kayakers may see seals playing in the shallow water. Gunnabuda rents sea kayaks and stand-up paddleboards and offers guided tours on the fjord. These activities may be subject to seasonal or booking conditions; check availability directly. Bicycle rental is also available there during the summer season. A wood-fired sauna overlooking the fjord rounds out the facilities.

Outdoors on Flemsøy/Skuløy

Numerous hiking trails in the Longva area lead through forest and mountain areas on Flemsøy/Skuløy. The island offers coastal walks and several spots suited to beach activities in summer. Sailing, paddling, diving, and swimming are also among the summer activities around Flemsøy/Skuløy. Skulebua, a viewpoint cabin on Mount Skulen at an elevation of 492 metres, is also nearby.

When there is enough snow, the local sports club prepares cross-country ski trails on Flemsøy/Skuløy. This creates a clear seasonal distinction: beach activities and water sports are summer pursuits, while the ski trails depend on sufficient snowfall.

Theatre events on the island

Theatre is also part of the local cultural scene. The UL Fram children’s theatre group on Flemsøy/Skuløy stages two regular performances in its home community every year. The adult group regularly puts on a performance at Easter. If you’d like to plan your trip around a show, check the specific performance dates separately.

Discover more destinations: Søvik, Vestre, Tennfjord, Kjerstad, Vatne, Fjørtoft, Hildre, Brattvåg

View the broader travel guide: Haram.