The islands of Træna

Træna is proof that you need not head for the tropics to find paradise. Here are mountains and sea, plenty of fish and many different birds, and tranquillity as well as drama, sunny weather and storms – often during the same day. The Arctic Circle cuts through the islands, which means that from late May to mid July you can enjoy the midnight sun – and savour Træna’s natural attractions round the clock. The archipelago has about 500 islands, islets and skerries – roughly one for every resident! Only four islands, however, are inhabited year round: Husøy, Selvær, Sanna and Sandøy. The main island and municipal centre is Husøy. Here you will find shops, accommodation and dining, a museum and more. Selvær, the second-biggest island, is a quiet and cosy fishing community. Here is an excellent harbour, a fish catch receiving station, and a shop that will provide for most of your needs. A shuttle boat provides transport to and from the rest of Træna. Sanna is an island known for its iconic mountains, great hiking trails, sandy white beaches and dark caves. A visit to Træna should definitely include an excursion to Sanna. Activities On Husøy you can walk the historic cultural trail. In fact, the whole island is worth exploring on foot. Check out the Petter Dass Chapel, built in honour of a celebrated 17th-century poet-priest, and try the oceanside sauna. Also worth seeing is Træna–Hawaii, an outdoor exhibition on the 20th century seen through the eyes of two people living in island communities on the opposite sides of the world. An excursion to Kirkehelleren, a cave on the island of Sanna, is highly recommended. People have used it as shelter since the Stone Age; today the cathedral-like cave is often used for concerts. The highest peak in the Træna archipelago is Trænstaven, 338 m. Because every approach is very steep and challenging, the summit hike requires that you are in extremely good shape, and you should only venture it with a guide. Fortunately there is an easily accessible peak: Gompen, 243 m. While you don’t need climbing gear, you must bring a flashlight or headlamp, as the path takes you through an unlit 300-metre tunnel. The summit offers a magnificent view, especially towards the south and west. Do consider bringing a bicycle to Træna. The islands have relatively few roads, but they offer wonderful cycling. How to get here To get to Træna, take the ferry from Stokkvågen or the express boat from Sandnessjøen, Nesna or Stokkvågen. Both bring you to Husøy, and from there you can take the local shuttle boat to Sanna. For more information about Træna, please visit www.tenktraena.no.