Sandshamn: Fishing Village History and Hiking Trails

Sandshamn combines the history of an important fishing village with hiking trails on Sandsøya. The cultural environment is classified regionally as worthy of protection and is considered an example of a well-preserved fishing village. Historic buildings and routes of varying lengths offer concrete points of reference when considering Sandshamn as a destination for your stay.

Fishing Village History on Sandsøya

In the second half of the 19th century, Sandshamn was one of the largest fishing villages on the coast. Historic buildings associated with the place include Gittahuset, dating from around 1850 to 1875. It has historic value and is connected with the fishing village of Sandshamn.

Fiskarheimen is also located in Sandshamn. It is the oldest assembly hall on Sandsøya. Together, the two buildings represent different historical associations: Gittahuset is notable for dating from around 1850 to 1875, while Fiskarheimen holds a special place on the island. The regional classification of the cultural environment adds to this perspective on the history of the fishing village.

Hiking Trails of Varying Lengths

The Grøntua and Hornet hiking trail can be accessed from both Sandshamn and Våge. From Grøntua and Hornet, there are good views over the outer southern areas and the sea. The out-and-back route to Grøntua from Sandshamn is listed as just over 3 km.

Another trail starts in Sandshamn and runs along the eastern side of Mount Grøntua to Kleiveneset. The Sjutoppsturen on Sandsøya covers a considerably greater distance: it is 15 km long, crosses five mountains and seven mountain peaks, and includes 1,000 metres of elevation gain. This makes it possible to compare the short distance to Grøntua directly with a long tour over several peaks.

The Sjutoppsturen has been held regularly since it began in 2005, with 2020 and 2021 as exceptions. If you want to plan your trip around the event, check the date in advance.

Cycling Route and Getting There

The cycling route on Sandsøya passes through Sandshamn and is associated with a lobster park and guest harbours. This means you can also consider the village as part of an island route, in addition to the hiking trails that start from or can be accessed from Sandshamn.

To reach the Grøntua and Hornet hiking trail, take the ferry from Larsnes or Åram to Voksa, then drive 5.5 km to Sandshamn. Check ferry connections before travelling. There is good parking at the trailhead in Sandshamn.

More Destinations in the Wider Destination of Sande

The following destinations are also part of the wider destination of Sande and are not features of Sandshamn. At the 556 m summit of Hidsegga is a summit marker showing the names of nearby peaks; from there, there are views towards Herøy and the Flåvær archipelago. At Skare, a marked trail leads from the end of the road to Dollsteinhola. Kongsvollen on Sandsøya hosts Kong Arthurspelet, a humorous historical play for families and people of all ages.

Discover more destinations: Gurskøy, Gursken, Våge, Gjerdsvika, Larsnes, Hakallestranda, Bringsinghaug, Kvamsøy

Back to the wider travel guide: Sande.