Drive it Yourself: The Coastal Road Day 4 – Sandnessjøen – Forøy
Drive it Yourself: The Coastal Road Day 4 – Sandnessjøen – Forøy The Coastal Road that runs from Brønnøysund to Bodø is one of Norway’s
Sandnessjøen is worth visiting thanks to its Viking history as well as the Seven Sisters, one of the most famous mountain ranges in Norway.
Latitude: 66.1 degrees north
Population: 5,900
Alstahaug Municipality
Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Sandnessjøen
At Sandnessjøen you can find a recreated Viking chiefdom seat called Sandnes. Sandnes is one of the best-documented archaeological discoveries of the Viking Age. The chieftain seat has been resorted and now you can visit and see what Viking life was like. There are guides there telling stories from the Viking Age, and it’s even possible to have meals there.
The Petter Dass Museum is dedicated to the famous 17th-century poet-priest Petter Dass, whose writings celebrated Northern Norway’s landscape and coastal culture. The museum combines modern architecture by Snøhetta with historic buildings, including the old parsonage and medieval church at Alstahaug. Interactive exhibitions explore local history, literature and life along the Helgeland coast. Its waterfront setting adds to the experience.
Alstahaug Church is one of the best-preserved medieval churches in Northern Norway. Built from local soapstone during the 12th century, it stands beside the Petter Dass Museum and historic parsonage. The church played an important role in regional religious life and later became associated with Petter Dass. The peaceful surroundings make it one of the region’s most atmospheric heritage sites.
Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are my recommendations!
The Seven Sisters offer some of the most famous mountain hiking opportunities in Northern Norway. Experienced hikers can attempt multiple peaks in a single day, while shorter routes provide easier access to spectacular viewpoints. The trails pass steep terrain, rocky ridges and dramatic coastal landscapes. Clear days reveal incredible views across Helgeland’s islands and fjords.
Dønna is a beautiful island destination reached by ferry from the Sandnessjøen area. Visitors can explore coastal villages, beaches, historic churches and the striking Dønnamannen mountain. The island combines nature, history and traditional coastal culture. It is one of the most rewarding day trips along the Helgeland coast.
Herøy is known for its island landscapes, white-sand beaches and rich maritime history. Visitors can explore small fishing communities, coastal trails and archaeological sites connected to Norway’s early settlement history. The area offers excellent cycling opportunities and peaceful scenery. Island hopping around Herøy provides a classic Helgeland experience.
Follow my road-trip guides for scenic trips around Sandnessjøen
The Coastal Road is the longest of Norway’s 18 national tourist roads, and covers the length from Trondheim to Bodø.
Here’s my self-guided walk for Sandnessjøen
Watch my YouTube videos featuring Sandnessjøen
This is part three of Norway’s coastal road.
This is part four of Norway’s coastal road.
Sandnessjøen has long been connected to maritime trade, fishing and coastal settlement. The surrounding islands and sheltered waterways made the area an important stopping point for travellers and traders moving along the Norwegian coast. Communities here developed around fishing, farming and seafaring traditions that shaped life for centuries.
The nearby Alstahaug area became particularly significant through the work of Petter Dass, one of Norway’s most celebrated poets and clergy figures. His writings helped define cultural understandings of Northern Norway and remain influential today. The historic church, parsonage and museum continue to preserve this legacy.
During the 20th century, Sandnessjøen developed into an important regional centre for Helgeland. Fishing, transport, public services and later offshore industries contributed to the town’s growth. Today it serves as one of the key urban centres along the Nordland coast.
Modern Sandnessjøen combines small-town coastal life with regional importance for transport, education and business. The town serves as a hub for surrounding island communities while maintaining close connections to traditional fishing and maritime industries. Offshore energy activities have also contributed to economic development in recent decades.
Tourism continues to grow as more travellers discover the Helgeland coast. Visitors are drawn by the Seven Sisters mountains, island landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities. Hiking, kayaking and coastal road trips are especially popular during summer.
Despite modern growth, Sandnessjøen retains a relaxed atmosphere shaped by nature and the sea. Residents enjoy easy access to mountains, islands and outdoor activities, creating a lifestyle closely connected to the surrounding landscape.
Fly: Sandnessjøen Airport Stokka offers regional flights connecting the town with Bodø, Trondheim and other Norwegian destinations.
Drive: Sandnessjøen is located along the scenic Kystriksveien coastal route. The drive passes fjords, mountains, bridges and island landscapes throughout Helgeland.
Train: No train access.
Ferry: Sandnessjøen is a port-of-call for the coastal ferry.
The town centre is compact and easy to explore on foot. A car is recommended for visiting the Seven Sisters trailheads, Alstahaug and nearby islands. Local buses connect surrounding communities, while ferries provide access to islands throughout Helgeland. Cycling is also popular during summer.
Cafes & Bakeries
Frk. Lovise Kafé og Konditori – Popular bakery and café serving cakes, coffee and traditional baked goods.
Kaffekverna AS – A cosy local café known for quality coffee, pastries and a welcoming atmosphere in the town centre.
Restaurants
Soprano Mat og Vinhus – One of the town’s best-known restaurants, serving a mix of Norwegian and international cuisine in a stylish setting.
ALO Restaurant – A refined dining option focusing on quality ingredients and modern Nordic-inspired cuisine.
High End & Unique Eats
All my hotel recommendations are based on research and experience. I don’t recommend somewhere unless I think it is wonderful! The Hidden North focuses on accommodation that provides good quality for price or offer local or unique experiences.
Camping
Offersøy Camping – A scenic camping and cabin option located near the coast, popular with road-trippers and outdoor travellers.
Cabins & B&Bs
Det Romantiske Huset – Charming guesthouse accommodation offering a more personal and intimate stay in the Helgeland region.
Chains & Mid-Range
The Scandic Syv Søstre is where I stayed in Sandnessjøen. The rooms were lovely and there is a large parking area close by.
High End & Unique Properties
Drive it Yourself: The Coastal Road Day 4 – Sandnessjøen – Forøy The Coastal Road that runs from Brønnøysund to Bodø is one of Norway’s
Drive it Yourself: The Coastal Road Day 3 – Brønnøysund – Sandnessjøen The Coastal Road that runs from Brønnøysund to Bodø is one of Norway’s