Nesna: Museum, Coast and Island Routes

Nesna combines local history with experiences on land and water: the museum is housed in two historic buildings, express boats run to the coastal islands, and the mainland offers hiking opportunities in Hammarøyfjellet. Exhibitions and architecture in the village sit alongside kayaking, fishing and trips out to sea.

Museum and Local Production History

The Nesna Museum is housed in Klokkegården, dating from 1823, and in the former trading house of the Zahl family. The permanent exhibitions in the Zahl House display objects from trade, domestic life, agriculture, fishing, supplementary work, home-based work and crafts. They offer a glimpse into different aspects of everyday life and work.

A separate exhibition is devoted to Nesnalobben, felt shoes that were made in Nesna from 1955 and produced there for 50 years. Alongside trade and crafts, it also highlights a product whose history is closely tied to the village. The museum programme also includes changing exhibitions and various events and commemorations. If you are planning a visit or a particular date, check the latest visiting information and event dates in advance.

Wooden Church and Village Character

Nesna’s architectural history includes a large wooden church dating from 1879. It can accommodate around 800 people. A notable building at the teacher training college dates from the 1920s. The village also features houses and other buildings in the Nordland style from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The church, college building and homes offer different insights into the village’s architectural history.

Island Connections and Experiences on the Water

The Helgelandspendelen and Nordland Express express boat routes stop in Nesna and make it easier to continue on to the coastal islands. The local express boat runs to Tomma, Hugla and Handnesøya; the islands also serve as starting points for kayaking trips. Routes and timetables may change, so it is advisable to check current connections before travelling.

The coast on the western side of Tomma, especially around Finnvika, is well suited to exploring by kayak. Wind, weather and sea conditions affect conditions on the water. Nordsjøbukta on Hugla has a sandy beach and blue sea; beach conditions and access may vary seasonally. Nesna and the surrounding sea areas also offer good fishing opportunities, though conditions and providers may vary.

Hiking in Hammarøyfjellet

There are hiking opportunities in Hammarøyfjellet on the mainland, starting from Nesna. The trail over Kjølen and Hammarøyfjellet begins at the end of Sørvollvegen near a power station and is marked in red all the way to the summit. From the Utsikten viewpoint, the panoramic view stretches across the Helgeland coast; visibility depends on the weather. Before setting out, check the parking situation and trail markings on site.

Trips in the Nearby Area

Outside Nesna, on Handnesøya, you’ll find Bitteliten farm. On a visit, you can meet the people and unique animals who live there. You can round off your farm visit with a short hike or a beach walk. From Nesna, you can reach the farm by taking a free ferry crossing of about 30 minutes. Visiting opportunities are seasonal; check these, as well as the ferry timetable, before travelling.

Nearby, you’ll also find Hammarøysand at the end of the road towards Ranfjord. SUP and kayaking trips set out from there. Weather and sea conditions are important factors for these activities.

Brewery and Guest Harbour

At the Nesna ferry terminal, RAUS Brewery offers brewery tours and beer tastings. Tours are seasonal, so check availability before travelling. Four different beers are served during a tasting, along with the story and origins of each beer. It’s a way to combine a visit with an insight into local brewing.

Visitors exploring the coast by boat will find a well-equipped guest harbour in Nesna. Facilities may change seasonally. The guest harbour and express boat connections offer different ways to plan a stay, depending on whether you are travelling by boat or reaching the islands by scheduled service.

Discover more destinations: Nesna, Sørfold, Evenes, Beiarn, Saltdal, Hemnes, Vevelstad, Dønna

Back to the main travel overview: Nordland.