Meløy is a land of contrasts, situated at the northern edge of the Helgeland coast. Its beautiful and dramatic landscape spans from idyllic fishing villages in a tranquil archipelago to deep fjords framed by alpine mountains and Norway’s second-largest glacier, Svartisen.
Meløy has long been nicknamed “the calm quarter” because of its mild winds. Back in the age of sailboats, this might have been a bit challenging, but for those who enjoy serene waters, it’s ideal. Meløy is a paradise for paddlers and boaters alike. Facing the sea, the fishing villages and archipelago stretch like pearls on a string, from Bolgværet and the picturesque island of Bolga in the south to Støttvær and Støtt Island in the north. Here, you can paddle or sail between villages and wharves along the waterways, arriving at sheltered harbors where a warm welcome and a good meal await.
Moving further inland, you’ll find larger islands like Åmøya and Meløya, with scenic mountains and peaks. Beyond these lie the fjords of Glomfjorden, Bjærangsfjorden, and Holandsfjorden, where sheer mountain walls rise from the water, crowned by snow-covered peaks and glaciers. The largest of these is Svartisen, the biggest glacier in Northern Norway. Engabreen, one of Svartisen’s glacier tongues, stretches down toward Holandsfjorden and is only a short boat ride and an easy hike away. You can even join a guided tour on the glacier itself—an unforgettable experience!
When winter arrives, Meløy is a dream for skiing enthusiasts. The Meløy Alps, the tall, majestic mountains around Glomfjord, accumulate deep snow as the mild coastal air meets the cooler winds from Svartisen and the mountains beyond the fjords. This area offers skiing for all tastes, from steep, adrenaline-filled descents off alpine peaks to gentle, secure slopes perfect for more relaxed ski touring. A local favorite is to take the chairlift up to the fine ski area in Glomfjord or drive up the mountain road toward Storglomvassdammen. In both cases, you get a head start with over 500 meters of elevation beneath you and some of the best slopes ahead.
Quelle: Visit Helgeland