Kjerringoy in northern Norway - a hidden gem

Located just north of Bodö, Kjerringoy in northern Norway is a hidden gem. Once upon a time, this small community was more important than Bodö. Today, it is an idyllic retreat where Bodö residents and others like to go in the summer to enjoy the peace and quiet, nature, good food at the hotel or perhaps a cultural event.

By ferry to Kjerringoy

Kjerringoy, or Kjerringøy, is not really an island, but there are no roads by land, so the only way to get here is by ferry. For this reason, they only charge in one direction. You have to go back anyway ...

When you arrive at Kjerringoy in northern Norway, you're greeted by beautiful roads winding along the coast, high dramatic mountains and countless sheep, who find the road a good place to take a nap....

Kerringoy trading centre

When you arrive at Kerringoy Trading centre it's hard to believe it's anything special. The only things visible from the road are some old (nice) wooden houses and a sign about a café and museum.

The cafe turned out to be really cosy, with quirky furniture and a large painting depicting the hardships of the old days at sea. Here you can eat everything from homemade cakes to traditionally cooked fish.

At Kjerringoy Handelssted you can also get a guided tour of the houses, especially the 18th century mansion. In the past, Kjerringoy was more important than Bodö, and an important merchant settled here to do business. When he passed away, his widow took over the big business, even though it was unusual for women to do big business in those days.

We got to see both how the "fine" people lived, and how their carers lived. What do you like about the "bathroom solution" in the men's room?

The best part of the tour was the old shop, which at the time had a reputation for selling 'everything'. Today you can buy souvenirs, crafts and sweets here, and I got to try a caramel that reminded me of the past. Does anyone else remember the 'King of Denmark'?

Kjerringoy Bryggehotell

If you want to get fancy with a good dinner, you should definitely go to Kjerringoy. Pier hotel. Here we had a three-course dinner consisting of cheese tray, lamb with potato puree and roasted root vegetables and chocolate fondant. So, sooo incredibly good! The cheeses were locally produced and the lamb was as tender as can be.

How is Bryggehotellet located? Absolutely stunningly beautiful by a small boat harbour! Just outside the hotel's restaurant and outdoor seating area is a jetty with small boats and associated popular "lake houses". Beyond, you have a view of the horizon and the mountains. Magical! And yes, there is both camping and free camping at Kjerringoy!

This trip was a press trip in co-operation with Visit Norway and Visit Bodö. The texts, pictures and opinions are as usual our own.