Weekend trip from Smøla kayak to Villsaugården: A paddling trip between the "crumbs" of the sea

Route: Smøla kayak - 6 km - Hopen - 7.5 km - Litlneset - 8 km - Svanøya - 5 km - Villsaugården

 

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​Set out on an unforgettable paddling weekend on your own, and find your way through the "crumbs" and hidden gems. The name Smøla comes from the Old Norse Smyl, which means "crumb" - a reference to the countless islands, islets and reefs that surround the main island. This trip takes you from Steinsøysundet in the northeast to Villsaugården in the southwest, with a magical overnight stay in the middle of the ocean.

 

Day 1: From protected straits to architect-designed shelter

The journey starts at Smøla kayak in Steinsøysundet. Here you set off from a soft sandy beach and paddle southward in a landscape characterized by contrasts.

Stage 1: Steinsøysundet – Hopen (6.1 km). A perfect start in sheltered waters. You pass the wave-prone “Sundkjeften” before the calm subsides. Here you paddle in a natural area where eagles and otters are often your company. The horizon is visible in the north and at sunset the sky and sea are colored in dramatic shades, while the roar of the great ocean in the north reminds you of the forces that exist out there.

 

Stage 2: Hopen – Litlneset (7.5 km). The trip continues into the sheltered nature reserve of Aunvågen. Here you paddle under footbridges and feel the gentle current in the water. At Lauvøya it becomes open, stay on land if you are unsure. At Fugløya you can take a well-deserved break. It is easy to see the gapahuken from here. It stands on the top of the island of Fugløya. 

 

Stage 3: Litlneset – Dyrnes – Svanøya (approx. 8 km). After passing the pier at Dyrnes, where you will find the Bøteriet pub, Øyrin outdoor area, Smøla golf course and Kystgull, the landscape changes character. You will now paddle into a labyrinth of small islands.

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Accommodation: Gapahuken on Svanøya

 

The evening's destination is perhaps the highlight of the trip. At the southern end of Svanøya you will find a unique, architect-designed gapahuk by Biotope AS. Here you can enjoy the sunset right in the ocean, light a bonfire and sleep with the sound of the waves as a lullaby. This is wilderness luxury at its best.

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Day 2: Navigating the labyrinth

Stage 4: Svanøya – Villsaugården. The last day is dedicated to the "crumbs". The landscape here is so detailed that a map and compass will become your best friends. At the shoreline, new land appears, and the channels become narrower. You paddle past old fishing villages such as Skomsøya, where the ruins of old houses testify to a hardy life along the coast.

 

The trip ends at Villsaugården, where you can go ashore after a weekend marked by mastery, nature experiences and total peace. This is not just a kayak trip; It is a journey through one of Norway's most beautiful and distinctive coastal landscapes.

Useful to know:

Season: June to September.

 

Difficulty: Easy paddling, but choose the direction according to the wind. It is possible to paddle in the opposite direction. 

 

Remember: You are traveling in protected areas - leave no traces and respect the birdlife.

 

Could you think of any tips for local food that you can buy with you from Villsaugården after the trip?

 

Accommodation, picnic areas and provisions

​It is possible to shop at Hopen. Comfortable accommodation before paddling can be found at Hopen Brygge, Lillenes rorbuer, Villsaugården, Betten rorbuer and Eco Camp Norway. Many choose to stay at the fishing village of Veiholmen. For an overview of all accommodation, see opplevsmola.com.