Hadsel, Norway

Last Updated on 26 August 2025 by Johan

Hadsel is a municipality located in Nordland County, in northern Norway, within the region of Vesterålen. The name “Hadsel” likely originates from Old Norse, possibly referring to a local geographical feature or settlement. The municipality spans four islands: Hadseløya, Hinnøya, Langøya, and Austvågøy, each offering dramatic landscapes shaped by fjords, mountains, and coastal terrain. With a population of approximately 8,000 and an area of 566.4 km², Hadsel is a gateway to both Lofoten and Vesterålen, combining maritime heritage with natural beauty.

Geography and Nature

Hadsel’s terrain is defined by steep peaks and deep fjords. The highest mountain is Lamlitinden on Hadseløya, while Hinnøya, Norway’s largest island, is home to Møysalen, the tallest peak in Lofoten and Vesterålen, rising to 1,262 meters.

Local tip: The hike to Møysalen National Park from Lonkanfjorden offers panoramic views and is suitable for experienced hikers with a guide.

The Raftsundet strait separates Austvågøy from the mainland and leads to the famous Trollfjord, a narrow fjord with towering cliffs and glacial formations.

Local tip: Summer boat tours into Trollfjord depart from Stokmarknes and Svolvær, often timed to catch the midnight sun.

Towns and Villages

Hadsel has two main urban centers:

  • Stokmarknes: Administrative center and birthplace of the Hurtigruten coastal service, with around 3,700 residents.
  • Melbu: Located on the southern coast of Hadseløya, with approximately 2,500 residents and a strong maritime industry.

Other villages include Fiskebøl, Gjerstad, Grønning, Grytting, Hanøyvika, Hennes, Kaljord, Sanden, and Sandnes.

Local tip: The ferry between Fiskebøl and Melbu offers scenic views of the Hadselfjord and is a practical route for travelers heading to Lofoten.

Maritime Heritage and Hurtigruten

Stokmarknes is the historic homeport of the first Hurtigruten ship, “Vesterålen,” which sailed from Trondheim to Hammerfest in July 1893. The Hurtigruten Museum, located in the Hurtigruten House, features life-like exhibits, photographs, and the preserved ship “Finnmarken” from 1956.

Local tip: Visitors can board the “Finnmarken” and explore its decks year-round. The museum also offers interactive displays for children.

Cultural Institutions

  • Vesterålen Cultural Centre: Hosts opera, theatre, and concerts with seating for over 500 guests.
  • Galleri Apotheket: Exhibits works by local artists in central Stokmarknes.
  • Vesterålen Museum: Located in Melbu, this museum includes the Melbu Manor House (circa 1850), restored farm buildings, and the Rødgård Gallery from the 1700s.

Local tip: The summer Melbu Festival features concerts in the old herring oil tanks at the Norwegian Fishing Industry Museum.

Historical Sites

  • Hadsel Church: An octagonal church from 1824, featuring an altarpiece from 1570 and medieval ecclesiastical artifacts.
  • Hadsel Cultural Heritage Park: Contains 22 marked Iron Age sites, including grave mounds and a star-shaped sacrificial altar.

Local tip: The church and heritage park are open to the public during summer months and offer guided tours with historical interpretation.

Natural Attractions

  • Uværshula: A storm shelter cave near the coast, built from natural rock formations and best experienced during rough weather.
  • Painter’s Rock: A decorated monolith at Fleines, painted by Konrad Johnsen to honor the Sea Rescue Association.

Local tip: Visit Uværshula during a summer storm or under the midnight sun for a truly atmospheric experience.

Outdoor Activities

  • Swimming at Taen: A popular beach with facilities, including toilets and wheelchair access.
  • Fishing: Opportunities for deep-sea fishing, as well as salmon, sea trout, and Arctic trout in local rivers and fjords.
  • Sailing on Brødrene: The traditional jekt vessel “Brødrene” offers summer excursions from Melbu.
  • Hiking in Raftsundet: The west side features alpine terrain, while the east side offers moorland suitable for families.

Local tip: The Raftsundet Bridge, completed in 1998, provides ferry-free access to Lofoten and is a feat of engineering worth photographing.

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