Holmøyane on Hornindalsvatnet

Holmøyane lies on Hornindalsvatnet, which is considered the deepest lake in Northern Europe. When planning a stay, the lake, marked trails through forest and mountain landscapes, and local cultural history help shape your experience of the area. If you are looking for hotels in Holmøyane, the different route profiles can help you decide what to focus on during your trip: the lake, trails through the landscape, or historical sites.

Choosing a route between the lake and mountain landscapes

A gravel path about 2 kilometres long leads from Holmøyvik to Holmøy Utigardsaga; much of it runs along Hornindalsvatnet. Around 20 kilometres of trails through forest and mountain landscapes are marked in Holmøyane. Three marked trails lead to Glittereggja, the highest mountain in Stad Municipality. When choosing a route, you can consider whether you prefer a lakeside path, forest and mountain landscapes, or a named summit destination.

Fishing is also possible in Hornindalsvatnet near Holmøyane. Rules and permits may vary, so check the regulations in force before fishing.

Distances and elevation gain

The forest road from Grendahuset Vonlund to Utigardssetra is about 2.5 kilometres long, with around 300 metres of elevation gain. It is suitable for walking and cycling; strollers and mobility scooters can use it for a longer section. As surface conditions may change, check them before setting out.

A circular route along forest roads and the promenade beside Hornindalsvatnet is about 5.5 kilometres long, with just under 200 metres of elevation gain. It is considered relatively flat and suitable for children; surface conditions may vary. A route report dated 5 November 2015 also mentions an easy circular walk of about 4.5 kilometres in Holmøyane and a lightly trafficked road that is suitable for walking and cycling in the village.

The trail from the main road to Sonjahytta in Holmøyane is just under 5 kilometres long, with an ascent of about 700 metres. This makes it longer and steeper than the route to Utigardssetra, which is about 2.5 kilometres long with around 300 metres of elevation gain. Both distance and ascent are therefore important when comparing routes. Several other hiking options continue from Sonjahytta; check the current trail markings when planning.

Mountain farm and cultural history

Utigardssetra belongs to the Holmøy farm in Holmøyane. It is a small mountain farm with a dairy hut; the cleared mountain pasture offers open views of Hornindalsvatnet and the villages of Navelsaker and Otterdal on the opposite shore.

Holmøy Arbeidsskule was founded in 1858 and was the first vocational and carpentry school of its kind in the country. Its history is connected to Holmøyane; the original school was later relocated. Holmøy Arbeidsskule and its cultural landscape are among the selected cultural heritage sites in Eid. The first Sonjahytta was built in 1932 as a joint project by the people of Holmøyane.

Discover more destinations: Kjølsdalen, Torheim, Haus, Nordfjordeid, Heggjabygda, Hennebygda, Stårheim, Eid

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