Lean-to at Sanden

A lovely, sheltered paddling route along the north side of the Atlantic Ocean Road. With a bit of luck and vigilance you may be able to spot both white-tailed eagles and seals on this trip. There are a few harbour seals residing in the area of Vågsholmen/Roaldsøya. It may be possible to make a detour of roughly one kilometre to visit Håholmen Hotel for a meal or overnight stay.

When launching from Rangøya, paddle westward out of the sound and then head south through Rangøystraumen. On the south side, you can either follow the shortest route and continue south, or turn west to visit Håholmen Havstuer, a cosy old fishing village converted to a hotel with overnight accommodations and restaurant. In the area between Kråkholmen, Vågsholmen and Roaldsøy, you may want to see if you can spot a few curious, but shy seals living in the area. From here, it's just a few hundred metres to the shallow bay of "Sanden" on the north side. Here you can try paddling as far as you can get but you may have to wade for a bit to come all the way in.  The lean-to is located in an peaceful spot with views of Kårvåg and the mountains of Fagerfjellet and Holstuva, which are popular hiking destinations. This is a great place to relax and take a break in the lean-to, or on a bench along the west wall. You can also have a little barbecue. For those who prefer not to paddle back the same day, there are suitable places to pitch a tent on the field nearby. There is also a tractor road/path from the lean-to and up to the road leading out to Rangøya. If you have a group where only a few people want to paddle, the others can hike up. There is also a wheelchair ramp by the lean-to. This is somewhat steeper than suggested for universal design, but wheelchair users with an off-road wheelchair that can be used on a tractor road can also join in the lean-to with everyone else.

Rangøya is a state-protected recreation area, and there are public toilets in several spots in the area. Parking is in marked parking areas by the Rangøya boathouses. These are on the left side of the road by the large gravel area, marked "Parking for Averøy UK Sjøsport". Members of Averøy UK Sjøsport can also borrow kayaks. There is also parking in the area before and after the white barn further out on Rangøya.