Kvitsøy

Idyllic atmosphere of Southern Norway out at the ocean’s edge

Experiences

Kvitsøy

Kvitsøy is located out at the ocean’s edge. Green, lush and prone to harsh weather on the western side facing the sea, but pleasant and idyllic where people live. The ferry out to the island takes 35 minutes from Mekjarvik in Randaberg. You can easily get around the main islands on a bike. If you cycle along the road all the way to Leiasundet, you can make a detour on foot to see the almost four-metre high stone cross that bears witness to historic ground. The ruins of a small stone church from the 12th century are also found here.

On the way from Leiasundet to Ydstebøhavn, you will pass Kvitsøy Church, which dates from the 17th century. It is situated on one of the highest points in Kvitsøy and is well worth a visit. Park your bike in Ydstebøhavn and wander around the pretty harbour area. At the end of the road, there is a fish landing facility and the lobster museum, which is open during the summer season. No matter the season, you should pay a visit to Kvitsøy Lighthouse and Kvitsøy Vessel Traffic Service Centre, with views of the 365 islands and islets that make up the Kvitsøy archipelago. From there, there is a waymarked trail to the west side of the island. The landscape bears witness to the harsh conditions that sometimes ravage the island. In bad weather, don’t go any further out than the signs indicate. It’s possible to take a detour up to our day trip cabin on the way. The trail continues through pastures and a cultural landscape, and you can take a closer look at the WWII bunkers along the way. You can choose to take a short or a slightly longer route, and the trail ends at a farm in Håland. From there, it’s just a matter of following the road back to the lighthouse.

Activities

Bathing spots Adapted bathing spots in Sandrenna by the ferry quay and Grøningen just before the Lobster Museum. You can also borrow a canoe for free.

Walking area All the land on Kvitsøy is privately owned, but through agreements with the local farmers, a number of marked walking trails have been established through grazing areas, and there are many amazing areas to visit on Kvitsøy. Please stay on the marked trails and show consideration for grazing animals.

Paddling Kvitsøy archipelago welcome you to first-class paddling experiences. Here, both experienced and inexperienced paddlers can try their hand at different challenges. Get your groceries at Coop Prix Kvitsøy, which is open from 8.00 to 21.00 on weekdays and from 9.00 to 20.00 on Saturdays.

Bike rides Kvitsøy is ideal for cycling, especially for families with small children. There are short distances, few hills and beautiful nature.

Fauna Kvitsøy is a popular destination for bird watchers. The archipelago’s location makes it an attractive place for migratory birds to stop off on their way to far-off places. Many species of bird nest in Kvitsøy municipality, particularly on the island Eime. From 15 April to 1 August, it is prohibited to visit the island or to be within 50 metres of its shoreline.

Diving a diver’s paradise awaits below the surface of the sea Get in touch with one of the local diving clubs.

Boating If you arrive by boat, you are welcome to use our guest marina in Ydstebøhavn.

Other activities Eldhug Adventure offers activities such as guided kayaking tours and swimruns. Contact Ronny Gundersen on +47 980 54 736 . The company Kvitsøyopplevelser also offers various activities such as fishing trips, diving, sea eagle safaris, etc. Contact Jan Inge Hansen on +47 918 84 334.

If you would like a guide to show you around the Lobster Museum, the lighthouse or the church, you can contact Rolf Skretting who offers group tours, min. 10 people. Tel. +47 977 25 677.

Eating out

During the summer you can visit the restaurant at Ydstebøhavn harbour or visit our local coffee shop where you will also find the tourist information office.

Accommodation

Park your camper van next to Vollsøy quay, where the ferry docks. You can park right by the sea and there is also access to a power supply. You will find tent pitches in the outdoor recreation areas Sandrenna and Grøningen. Both places have barbecues, barbecue huts, beaches and toilets that are open during the season.There are also apartments as well as seaside houses and boathouses for hire. See the municipality’s website for more information, or search on finn.no and Airbnb.

Tourist information

Kommunehusveien 6, 4180 Kvitsøy

Tlf.: + 47 51 73 63 00

Open Mon. - Fri. 09.00 - 14.30

post@kvitsoy.kommune.no

www.kvitsoy.kommune.no