Harøyburet: small hill, big surprises

We hiked up Harøyburet (156 m above sea level) during our Norway road trip, as we crossed the Nordøyane islands. It wasn’t on the itinerary or meant to be a big hike—more of a spur-of-the-moment detour. After long hours in the car, we needed to stretch and give Iba a proper walk.

So we aimed for the highest point on one of the islands we were passing through. All the more surprising was how much this short, unassuming walk delivered.

Where to park and start

We parked at the end of a forest track that led from the bus stop “Myklebust ved tunnel” toward a nearby dog-training area. From there, a discreet path ran through the woods toward the summit. There were a few ways up, but we chose this option mainly for the convenient parking.

First bonus: blueberries

The path was narrow at first and ran through forest that opened quickly. Then we climbed steeper grassy slopes. It had rained overnight, so everything was still a little wet, but the terrain didn’t feel treacherous.

The first surprise came quickly: blueberries everywhere. We didn’t hesitate and happily rounded out breakfast with this wild, sweet boost. After a short but enthusiastic picking break, we carried on.

To Lake Lomstjørna and the summit

After a while, the path brought us onto a flatter section and then a maintained track toward Lake Lomstjørna. From there, several trails led to the very top. We chose the most comfortable option.

It was clear the locals had built a network of groomed routes for running, leisurely walks, and dog-walking. Everything, as is typical in Norway, was clean, practical, and sensibly laid out.

A few minutes later we were standing on Harøyburet’s summit. Besides the transmitter, there was a modest plaque marking the top. The views were a welcome surprise—out across the Nordøyane islands and over to the mainland, where far higher mountains rose in the background.

We took a few photos, soaked it in for a moment, then headed back the same way to the car. Of course, there was time for one more quick blueberry stop—they really were excellent.

A short walk with a big payoff

It was an easy route—perfect for walking the dog, shaking off the long hours of driving, and wrapping up with blueberries and fine views. The ascent and descent together took no more than an hour.

Harøyburet is exactly the kind of place you could easily overlook—yet it delivers precisely what you need in the moment. After this short stop we continued our journey a little more rested and in much better spirits.