Gurskøy: Summit Views, Trails and Island History

Gurskøy combines rugged terrain and densely populated coastal areas with peaks, hiking trails and views of the sea and surrounding islands. When choosing your holiday apartment, it may be important to consider which experiences you want to focus on: a marked hike, a glimpse of historic transport routes or a cycling trip. The options vary considerably, from short walks with a rest area to longer tours and scenic summits.

Summits and Views of the Sea and Islands

At 598 metres, Rjåhornet is one of the highest peaks on Gurskøya. From there, the view stretches east to the Sunnmøre Alps and west to the ocean. Gjønå is 532 metres high; from its summit, you can see inland as well as islands, islets and skerries. The route to Fjellsenden also offers views across the sea and of the mountains on Gurskøya.

Another viewpoint is Arskotet above Haugsbygda. From there, you can look across Gurskefjord towards Gursken; there is a bench at the viewpoint. In fine weather, locals and travellers passing through visit Gjøneset to look out to sea and towards the horizon. Skåla offers a different kind of summit: at 184 metres above sea level, it is the northernmost peak on Gurskøya. The marked trail from Stokksund School is 1.6 kilometres long.

Hiking Trails for Different Excursions

The trail from Djupvikvatnet to Djupvikhaugen is considered relatively easy and can be walked in any season. Reflective markers show the way; along the route, there is an old shelter and a barbecue area. If there is enough snow, you can walk the route on snowshoes. If you prefer a short route with little uphill walking, the Eventyrstien in Gursken passes various fairy-tale features. The trail was designed for children and older people and has a rest area with several tables.

The trail to Vasshornet is also easy to follow: it starts in Almestad in Gursken and is signposted and marked. The route to Haugshornet, meanwhile, follows part of the old packhorse trail between Haugsbygda and Gjerdsvika. At Dalen, you pass the remains of walls from former spring cow sheds and turf houses. This trail therefore combines a hike with visible traces of earlier land use.

Old Routes and Active Days

A road by Djupvikvatnet forms part of an old transport route between Leikanger and Dragsund. This route was built in 1869. Gamlevegen is also of historical significance: it is part of the first road built in the former Herøyer church parish. It ran from Leikong to Larsnes and was completed around 1840.

For an active outing on two wheels, Gurskøya Rundt is one option: this annual cycling event is intended for the whole family and has no competitive category. The route around the island is just under 47 kilometres long. If you prefer to get around on foot, you can factor in the different trail profiles and viewpoints when planning your trip, rather than trying to fit every experience into a single day.

For getting around on the water: local ferries run from Larsnes to Åram on the mainland, to Voksa and onward to Kvamsøya. Other places: Kvamsøy, Gjerdsvika, Larsnes, Gursken, Våge, Hakallestranda, Bringsinghaug and Sandshamn.

For the main travel overview: Sande.