Herdla is a small island full of adventure. Walk along the long beaches, swim, fish or observe the bird life. You can also visit the Herdla Museum and learn more about the exciting war history.
Distance: 85 km total (there and back)
Driving time: Approx. 1 hour 40 minutes
Best time to do it: Spring, summer, autumn
How to get to Herdla:
The trip to Herdla takes approx. 50 minutes by car from Bergen city center. You follow Rv 555 to Storavatnet and then turn off towards Askøy. After about 30 km along Fv 562 you cross the bridge between Askøy and Herdla. Follow signs to Herdla Fort where there is parking, toilet and information. You can also get to Herdla by bus # 499 which leaves from Bergen bus station and has Herdla as the end stop.
Nature / history:
The island of Herdla is very special. The small moraine island was created by glaciers and melted water about 12,500 years ago. With its long beaches and large fields, Herdla is quite unlike the other coast landscapes outside Bergen. On Herdla you can also find the largest farm in former Hordaland, and the most important bird area in the region. In total, Herdla is only 1.6 square kilometers so you can safely park your car and explore the entire island on foot.
Photo: Herdla Museum
Herdla has always been an important meeting place. In the 12th century the royal estate, nobility seat and church was located here. Until 1963, Herdla was the center of the municipality of the same name.
A rural fort from the time of the migration is the oldest defense facility on the island. The newest is a torpedo battery that was operational until 2000. Most of the traces that remain are from World War II when Herdla was an important German base with both fighter planes and coastal fort.
Herdla Museum:
Herdla Museum is located in a modern, new building on the Herdla fort. Here you will find exhibitions that show both dramatic war years and the rich wildlife and bird life in the area. The main attraction is the wreck of a German WWII fighter plane. The museum is also responsible for the guided tours at the protected torpedo battery. Herdla Museum also have a café and museum shop.
Fighter plane from WW2 Photo: Herdla Museum
Tours/activities at Herdla
At Herdla there are several good alternatives for activities, here are a few suggestions:
- Visit the bird tower at Valen. From the tower you can see ducks, seagulls and maybe an eagle. Herdla is a bird sanctuary, so you need to be quiet and watch your step. Follow the signs that tell you where you are allowed to go.
- Greet a goat! At Herdla Fort there is a whole herd of goats. They can be patted if you like, but do not feed them.
- Go crab hunting! At Herdla there are many nice beaches where you can look for crabs and shells.
- Fly a kite. Herdla is often windy and also offers plenty of space. Use the field inside Herdla fort, and you will avoid worrying the birds and the cows.
- Go paddling to Skarvøy. Skarvøy is an exciting island with tunnels, ruins and bunkers. At the museum you can borrow canoes, oars and life jackets. If you are going on this tour, the weather must be good, you must be able to swim and an adult must be with you.
If you just want to go for a walk, there are many hiking options in the area. You can walk or ride a bike along the main road, follow the jogging trail or seek out one of the forest trails.
Canoeing, climbing and other activities
If you prefer other activities Gone Paddling offer guided kayaking. Or why not challenge yourself with a guided Via Ferrata climb?
Via Ferrata climbing Photo: Gone Paddling
The landscape at Herdla is perfect for climbing. Along the way, chances are you will get to see the local bird life up close.
Find more suggestions for day trips by car from Bergen.
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