5-Day Kayak Tour Around Smøla – A Scenic Journey with Short Stages and Plenty of Time to Explore

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A five-day paddling trip around Smøla allows for relaxed stages, frequent breaks, and the opportunity to explore the hidden corners of the archipelago. With shorter daily distances, the trip becomes accessible to a wider range of paddlers, while still offering the experience of both open sea stretches and sheltered coastal waters. Smøla is home to what is likely the world's densest population of sea eagles. For paddlers, this means a unique chance to see Northern Europe’s largest bird of prey up close in its natural element.

 

What makes Smøla unique is the shallow water and the countless skerries that keep large boats away. Here, you are often alone with the horizon, the light, and the rhythmic sound of your oars. Paddling around Smøla is an experience that combines a sense of mastery with raw, untouched nature.

 

Route Selection for a 5-Day Trip

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The trip can start in several locations, but by starting with us, you’ll receive expert advice and secure parking. Most choose to paddle westward (counter-clockwise), but always keep the wind in mind; it may be beneficial to travel in the opposite direction of our suggestion to maximize tailwinds. We recommend staying at these locations:

 

Fugløya: An architect-designed shelter by Biotope. It features a covered dining table with benches and additional seating facing southwest and north. There is a fire pit outside and a stunning view. Pitching a tent can be a bit challenging but is possible. You can land at the floating dock in the narrow passage east of the island, and there are several coves around the island suitable for landing. Enjoy the horizon and the sunset. For indoor accommodation nearby: Dyrnes Gjestekro. Distance from Smøla Kayak: 12 km.

 

Villsaugården (South Smøla): A nature-focused stay with architect-designed cabins by the shore, a farm shop, and a sauna (book here). Guests can enjoy local food culture, wild sheep, and activities like sea eagle safaris. We are currently working on establishing a dedicated campsite in the area. Distance from Fugløya: 12 km.

 

Eco Camp Norway: A hostel with tenting options on a former football pitch right by the sea. Guests have access to a common room and toilets. Dormitory beds are available at a low cost if the weather is poor. Distance from Villsaugården: 18 km.

 

Dyrøya: A campsite with a fire pit and great swimming spots. It features a sun-facing grassy meadow and two beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by small hills. A picnic area with benches and a fire pit is available. With a tent, sleeping bag, and stove, you have a "five-star" outdoor hotel experience for free. Distance from Eco Camp Norway: 13 km (and 13 km back to Smøla Kayak).

 

Practical Information and Navigation

• Season: June to September are the best months, featuring the calmest winds and comfortable water temperatures (12–16°C).

• Wind and Weather: Smøla is wind-exposed. Read the weather forecast carefully and plan your direction to get as much tailwind as possible.

• Insects (Midges and Ticks): Midges (knott) can be a nuisance on calm evenings in August and September. They aren't a problem while paddling, but if you go ashore when the sun is low and the wind is still, they will find you. The outermost islands to the north and west are usually midge-free. Smøla Kayak offers an indoor shelter to escape them. Dyrøya can be buggy when windless. On islands with sheep, ticks (flått) may occur; check yourself before sleep.

• Tides: The tidal range is about 2 meters. This is a fun challenge requiring planning, especially on the south side. If you time it wrong, you might have to wait a few hours. Use online tide tables. The key passages are Litlstraumen and the Rangnes currents.

Litlstraumen: A narrow passage under a bridge with strong currents. When the sea level is above 130 cm, it flows east (with you if coming from Villsaugården). Between 0–130 cm, it flows west (against you from Villsaugården). At levels between 100–150 cm, the current is weak enough to pass regardless of direction.

Rangnesstrømmene: Tidal currents that must be timed correctly. Between 0–130 cm, the current flows east (with you from Villsaugården). Above 130 cm, it flows west. Between 100–150 cm, it is passable both ways. There is a smaller, easier current a few hundred meters west of the main one.

 

Highlights

• The Western Archipelago: In Old Norse, Smøla was called Smyl, meaning "crumb." Smøla is essentially "the island of crumbs," referring to the thousands of islets surrounding it. The landscape changes with the tide, making navigation a rewarding challenge for map and compass enthusiasts.

• The South Side: The Tustnastabban mountains dominate the southern skyline. The tidal areas at Jøstølen and Rangnes are exciting for paddlers.

• The East Side: The Dyrøya campsite offers beaches, grass for tents, and a bonfire spot.

Caution: Bremnesskaret and Sundkjeften

Watch out for the open sea at Bremnesskaret and Sundkjeften. North of Dyrøya is Bremnesskaret, where waves can be tough in north or east winds—stay close to shore. Sundkjeften is passed shortly after the marina in Steinsøysundet; it is exposed at high tide. If waves are present, wait for the tide to fall.

 

Accommodation and Supplies

Great camping spots are available at Smøla Kayak, Svanøya, Kvistvågen Fritidspark (7 km detour), and Dyrøya. However, the true magic of Smøla is finding your own uninhabited island.

Groceries can be bought at Hopen, Råket, and north of the ferry quay. Comfortable lodging is available at Hopen Brygge, Lillenes Rorbuer, Villsaugården, Betten Rorbuer, and Eco Camp Norway. Many spend the first or last night in the fishing village of Veiholmen, 10 km north of Smøla. See opplevsmola.com for a full overview.