The beautiful fjords and the vast Atlantic ocean meet in the coastal landscape west of Bergen. Go island hopping on the Bergen coast!
Distance: 110 km (there and back)
Driving time: Approx. 2 hours and 10 minutes, Bergen-Hellesøy there and back.
Best time to do it: All year, but the boat service to Fedje only runs in summer.
The landscape west of Bergen is made up of a string of thousands of large and small islands. Many of them are connected to the mainland by bridges, and are easy to get to by car. Watch waves break against the shore and breathe in the smell of the heather that grows on the rocks by the sea. Out here at the ocean’s edge, you can enjoy the vast sky and panoramic views.
The name Øygarden comes from the two words ‘øy’ meaning island and ‘gjerde’ meaning fence. The string of islands forms a barrier between the sea and fjords. The sea lashed the coast on the western side of Øygarden, while the waters are often calmer on the sheltered side.
Map with details of the trip.
Brief description of the trip
This trip is particularly suitable for those who are not staying long in the Bergen region. The trip from Bergen to Hellesøy (see map) and back only takes around two hours and ten minutes. Øygarden is the perfect place if you want to go kayaking or wander along coastal paths. Whatever you choose to do, Øygarden provides impressive views of the sea. Turøy, Skogsøy and Hellesøy are great places for admiring the sea and the magnificent scenery.
12,000 years of history
The first people came to Norway when the ice retreated after the last Ice Age. A stop at the Coastal Museum in Øygarden provides useful insight into how people made a living out here at the ocean’s edge. With exhibitions and films you get to see how people have lived and used nature through the ages - from fishermen to farmers, from turf to gas. The museum has a shop and a small cafe for light snacks and coffee. 
Stop on a bridge!
Take a break and enjoy the view on one of the many lovely bridges that connect the islands of Øygarden together. Some of them are also great spots for fishing. A short detour to Turøy and the Turøyvarden cairn will give you a great view of the horizon. It’s a great destination whether it’s wet and windy or you want to enjoy a romantic sunset. The ice and sea have formed the magnificent cliffs on Skogsøy – follow the coastal heathlands from Herdlevær out to the sea and see for yourself!
Turøy Island. Photo: Morten Halvorsen
Walking on coastal paths in Øygarden
There are many great paths in the coastal heathlands in Øygarden. The walk from Herdlevær to the cliffs on Skogsøy is particularly beautiful.
A few tips about walking by the sea:
- Pay attention to the forecast and advice issued by the authorities! Don’t venture out if it is very windy.
- Wear clothing that protects you from the elements, and that keep you warm and dry. Wearing rubber boots, a waterproof jacket and trousers, and wool is recommended.
- Don't go too close to the waves in bad weather. Large waves can break onto the shore, so don’t go too near the edge.
Stay dry, keep well away from the waves and enjoy the fantastic weather Bergen has to offer!
If you do not have a car you can join the tour Island hopping from Bergen. The trip departs Monday - Fridays during the summer. Join the local mail boat to Solund, Bulandet and Værlandet on this beatiful tour.
Find more suggestions for day trips by car from Bergen.
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