A journey to the viking island of Bjarkøy

Harstad Explore Harstad

Next occasion 14 September

Two people in fur-trimmed medieval clothing stand by icy water with a spear and shield, snowy mountains behind.

Bald bearded man in a blue cloak stands in tall grass holding an axe and round shield under a cloudy sky.

Snowy rural scene with a red schoolhouse and a white farmhouse beside bare trees, a lake, and mountains.

On July 29th in the year 1030, the Christian king Olav the Holy was killed at the battle of Stiklestad by a spear. The man who delivered the fatal blow was Tore Hund from Bjarkøy. On this tour, participants will hear the story of the king-slayer as they travel back in time through the island kingdom where it all began.

Highlights

Experience Bjarkøy and the island landscape associated with the Viking chieftain Tore Hund
Learn about Tore Hund and the events surrounding the Battle of Stiklestad
See the “Selshevneren” monument on Bjarkøy
Explore the coastal landscape and birdlife at Sundsvollsundet Nature Reserve
Enjoy coffee and Kvæfjordkake at Røkenes Gård

Departs from: Sjøgata 3, 9405 Explore Harstad Office
Duration: 4t hours

Transport & Transfer

Minibus (up to 16 people)

Difficulty level

Easy

Booking

Pre-order
Online Booking
On request
Arctic living
Culture and history

Group size

Group Activity

Guide language

English
German
Norwegian

Duration

3-5 hours

Description

City Sightseeing and Ferry Ride
The tour begins in the centre of Harstad, where the group is taken on a short city drive before heading toward Bjarkøy. To reach the islands, the fjord must be crossed by ferry. During this “micro-cruise,” participants can enjoy a cup of coffee and the stunning views.

“Selshevneren” – Tore Hund’s Spear
In spectacular surroundings stands the monument marking that Bjarkøy is still considered Tore Hund’s realm. The spear stands an impressive 15 metres tall, and a stop is made here to admire the scenery.

Sundsvollsundet Nature Reserve
On the northern side of Bjarkøy, the group stops to marvel at a rare sight: Norway’s largest kittiwake colony. The bird cliffs are full of colour, movement, and sound – a truly unique experience. With some luck, participants may even spot a rare bird species.

Røkenes Farm
On the return trip to Harstad, the group stops at historic Røkenes Farm to enjoy Norway’s national cake – “World’s Best” Kvæfjord cake. The traditional barn has been transformed into one of the city’s finest restaurants.

Transport

Transport by minibus or bus and ferry is part of the experience. The tour travels from Harstad through the island landscape to Bjarkøy before returning to Harstad.

Includes

Guided sightseeing
Transport by minibus or bus
Ferry ticket
Coffee on the ferry
Coffee and Kvæfjordkake at Røkenes Gård

Additional information

The itinerary is adapted for cruise guests to ensure they return to the ship on time
Updated departure times for cruise guests are selected during booking based on the relevant arrival date

Map & Directions

100km

By car from Narvik city centre, follow the E6 north towards Bjerkvik. From Bjerkvik, continue west on the E10 towards Harstad and cross Tjeldsund Bridge. Then turn onto Road 83 towards Harstad and follow the signs to the city centre. Explore Harstad is located at Sjøgata 3, 9405 Harstad, close to the harbour area.

By public transport, bus 200 connects Narvik and Harstad. Check current departure times and stops with Reis Nordland before travelling.

Contact information: +47 95 09 42 00 [email protected] Website

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