Attractions and Places To See around Smøla - Top 20

Smøla offers a rich history. You can visit the ancient Old Edøy Church, dating back to around 1190, or see the significant Kulisteinen, a national monument with the first known written reference to "Norway." Don't miss the site of a Viking Ship Burial discovered near Old Edøy Church, estimated to be over 1,000 years old. The Trollstua Cabin and DNT Gullsteinvollen Cabin also offer a glimpse into the region's past as part of hiking routes.

For an authentic coastal experience, head to Veiholmen, a lively fishing village at the northernmost tip of Smøla, known for its charming cafés, pubs, and galleries. The Guri Centre - Mrs. Guri of Edøy is a regional cultural and coastal pilgrimage center offering family activities. You can also explore Brattvær, a former fishing village, or visit the Smøla Museum (Sanden Museum) in Veiholmen to learn about 18th and 19th-century life on the Nordmøre coast.

Smøla is famously known as the "kingdom of sea eagles" and boasts the world's densest population of these majestic birds. You can join guided Sea Eagle Safaris by boat for an up-close encounter. The island's numerous nature reserves and landscape protection areas, such as Sør-Smøla and Sortna, contribute to its rich wildlife.

Yes, Smøla features several notable lighthouses. Haugjegla Lighthouse offers insights into Smøla's history and even provides overnight stays. Other significant lighthouses in the municipality include Skalmen Lighthouse to the northwest and Tyrhaug Lighthouse in the Edøyfjorden to the southeast.

Smøla offers diverse hiking opportunities, from easy strolls to challenging climbs. You can explore trails in Dyrnesdalen valley and on Edøya. For more challenging terrain, consider the Rocky Coastal Climb, which requires some climbing skills. The Wooden Staircase by the Lake provides helpful passage on certain routes. You can find detailed routes, including those to the Trollstua Cabin and DNT Gullsteinvollen Cabin, in the Hiking around Smøla guide.

The Guri Centre - Mrs. Guri of Edøy (Gurisenteret) is a great option for families, offering various experiences and activities. Additionally, the Aquaculture Visitor Center provides an engaging look into the Norwegian fish-farming industry, where you can even participate in feeding salmon.

Smøla's landscape is characterized by its thousands of islets and skerries, making it a unique archipelago. The island is flat, low-lying, and marshy. You can also visit the Smøla Wind Farm, one of Europe's largest onshore wind parks, which stands out in the open landscape. The Wooden Staircase by the Lake is a man-made feature that helps visitors navigate the natural terrain.

Absolutely! Smøla is a paradise for sea fishing due to its abundant archipelago, with many accommodations offering guided tours and boat rentals. The myriad of islands and skerries also provides excellent opportunities for kayaking, allowing you to explore the coastline and get close to wildlife.

Smøla offers different experiences depending on the season. The spring is ideal for bird enthusiasts, with the Smøla Birding Festival featuring puffins and terns. In the autumn, the Northern Lights are often visible across the horizon, offering a spectacular natural display. Summer provides pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and exploring the fishing villages.

Yes, Smøla has several cultural sites. The Smøla Museum (Sanden Museum) in Veiholmen showcases 18th and 19th-century coastal life. The Guri Centre - Mrs. Guri of Edøy is a cultural and pilgrimage center. You can also visit the Norsk Myrmuseum (Norwegian Peat Museum) on Edøya to learn about peat cultivation, or experience school life over a century ago at Rangnes Gamle Skole (Old Rangnes School).

Smøla offers various cycling routes suitable for different skill levels. You can find routes like the challenging "Smøla loop from Edøya" or moderate options such as the "Atlantic Ocean Road Bridge loop." These routes allow you to explore the island's unique flat landscape and coastal scenery. For more details, refer to the Cycling around Smøla guide.

The Kulisteinen, located three kilometers from Edøy, is a national monument of immense historical significance. It contains the first known written reference to the name "Norway" and mentions the Christianization of the country, with its runic inscription dating from the early 11th century.