Sortland
Andøya in the north of Vesterålen is a lovely tour of just over 100 km. with many great accommodations, exciting experiences and good hiking opportunities along the route. The island has no major climbs, you mainly cycle along the sea but will experience a ride in an exciting and varied coastal landscape.
With base in Andenes, the tour goes around the island with dramatic scenery, small pearls of local communities and white sandy beaches between dramatic mountain formations.
If you start along the Norwegian Scenic Route on the west side which is also part of National Cycle Route 1, you will soon cycle past Oksebåsen. Here you can explore the Northern Lights and the space at Norway's only operational space center. At your next turn is Kleivodden. A popular stop and viewpoint with sculptural design.
You will pass by the only tunnel on Andøya. This tunnel is only 101 meters long but dark - you need to use light and reflexes so that you are easily visible to cars and other motorists.
At Bleik you can still see the cluster building after the old fishing village. Bleikbeach is one of Norway's longest beaches. The beautiful white sandy beach stretches over two kilometers. The local store is a gathering point in the village and a good place to stop to refill your energy for the trip. The famous bird mountain Bleiksøya is located just outside Bleik.
The mountain Måtind is accessible from Bleik, Stave or Baugtuva. The iconic view from the top is worth the hike up!
At Stave, you can rest your tired bicycle legs and enjoy the warm outdoor hot tubs and a beach sauna with wonderful views.
Andøya is known for its many marshes and has northern Europe's largest marsh area. Here grows the famous malt. If you can buy some of these along the way - you won't regret it. One tip is waffles with cream and mullet. Yummi!
Your next stop will perhaps be the mountain formation Bukkekjerka. Here you can hike in an area that offers great nature experiences, exciting geology and history by the ocean. On the north side there is a resting place with service building, here the toilets maybe have Norway's most beautiful views?
When you reach the south side of Andøya, we recommend a short detour down to Risøyhamn and the "old shop" for refills, before continuing the ride along the east side of the island!
Along the road at Åse you will find cultural heritages from prehistoric times.
At Dverberg you will find homemade quality soaps made from only natural ingredients. Enjoy a delicious and tasty «cinnamon spin» before heading back to Andenes.
Andenes is the island's largest town and municipality center. Two operators offer whale watching/safari and the whale center offers a combination of research, learning and tourism.
Also use this opportunity to take a walk up in the 40 meter high lighthouse from 1859. The view is amazing from here!
Have a nice trip!
Quelle: Visit Vesterålen