Gjerøy: Coastal Island, Hiking Trails and Literary Traces

Gjerøy is an island in the municipality of Rødøy in Nordland county, on the coast of Helgeland. Coastal scenery, hiking trails and the literary history associated with John Hjertås offer different ways to shape a trip. You can plan your stay around nature, outdoor activities or culture.

Coastal Scenery and Hiking Trails

Gjerøy is surrounded by open sea and sheltered coves. Gjerdøya is rocky, particularly in the east and north; white beaches and diverse birdlife are also part of the landscape. The scenery therefore includes a range of features, from rocky areas and coves to beaches. From Gjerøyfjellet, there are views of Myken and the Lofoten Wall. A municipal overview of outdoor destinations in Rødøy, last updated in 2023, lists Gjerøyfjellet as one of five attractive destinations; check this information before setting out on a hike.

Gjerøy has marked hiking trails, including a trail to Gjerdøyfjellet. Polarsirkelløypa is also designated as a hiking trail. The trails and the views from Gjerøyfjellet offer different options for planning: you can make a hike the focus of your visit or combine it with views of Myken and the Lofoten Wall.

Literature and Local History

On the Buøyvalen peninsula on Gjerøya are the foundations of the farm where the writer John Hjertås was born on 30 March 1897. Hjertås grew up in Buøyvalen and is associated with the novel “Under brottskavlen.” The island’s literary history is therefore closely tied to a specific place and the writer’s life.

Another historical trace leads to the old school, Gamalskolen, on Gjerøy. It dates from the early 20th century, and its boarding-school floor has been preserved. The school is thought likely to have served as the inspiration for the boarding school in the novel “Under brottskavlen.” This possible literary connection adds to the history of the school building without presenting the interpretation as certain.

Getting There and Finding Your Way Around

Ways to get to Gjerøy include ferries from Jektvik or Tonnes, the Nordlandsekspressen and the local express boat between the islands of Rødøy. Ferries also run from Gjerøy to Jektvik on County Road 17, the Kystriksveien coastal route in Nordland, as well as to most of the nearby inhabited islands. Check the current timetables before departure.

Routes to specific places can also help you find your way around the island: Hagland is within walking distance of the express boat landing on Gjerøy. A 2.3-kilometre footpath leads from the ferry or express boat landing to Lyngvågen. If Lyngvågen is part of your plans, you can take this distance into account when planning your route.

Dining and Accommodation in Lyngvågen

Lyngvågen Kafé serves traditional seafood in an old fish reception building on Gjerdøya. The menu includes fish burgers, whale burgers, bacalao and fried cod tongues; offerings may change. Check seasonal opening hours before your visit. You can also stay overnight at the café; check seasonal availability in advance.

Guests with their own boats can use a 160-metre floating dock in Lyngvågen, with ample space and access to water and electricity. Check the facilities before you arrive. Depending on your travel plans, these details about Lyngvågen can help you decide whether to visit for traditional food, stay overnight or stop by with your own boat.

Discover more destinations: Øresvik, Jektvik, Rødøy, Vågaholmen, Oldervik, Nordnesøya, Nordvernes.

Go to the main travel overview: Rødøy.