Måløy is a serene Norwegian town located on the picturesque Vagsoy island’s western edge. Although the town was officially recognized in 1997, its history dates back to 1035 when Viking King Magnus the Good established the first organized settlement here. Nowadays, the locals engage primarily in the fishing export industry, exporting over 180,000 tons of fish annually. The island boasts four lighthouses. While in Måløy, you can stroll around town and admire more than 20 impressive murals, showcasing its blossoming cultural scene. Additionally, the town’s intriguing Nordic past is documented through historical sites such as the Måløy Raid Center.
Måløy
Norway
Transportation
VIATOR
Taxis are available.
Explore
Refviksanden
Many times the Beach of Refviksanden has been nominated as the most beautiful beach in Norway. The beach is snow-white sand and sparkles in the sun. The Beach of Refviksanden is very kid-friendly due to the long walk out to the ocean before actually swimming.
Kannesteinen
Found in the small village of Oppedal, approximately 6.2 miles west from Måløy center, Kannesteinen is a special stone standing 9 feet and 1/16 of an inch high – shaped by waves, ice and moving stones. It is a year-round attraction and can easily be accessed via the parking area and a well-organized path down to the stone.
Krakenes Lighthouse
The Kråkenes lighthouse was created by the Norwegian Coastal Administration in 1906 and is a guiding and entry lighthouse from the Stadhavet, located in Kinn municipality in Nordfjord in Vestland county. The lighthouse is surrounded by open sea, has several wind records and lies on one of the most exposed places on the west coast of Norway between Ålesund in the north and Bergen in the south. The unspoilt nature around the lighthouse invites you to discover tours both down the fjord and up around the Kråkeneset.
Street Art
When Tone Andal returned to her hometown of Måløy in 2010, she couldn’t help but notice the potential for street art in the town. With its grey, worn walls and unique history, Måløy could be transformed into a hub for the art form.
After the devastating Måløy raid during World War II, much of the town was left in ruins. The older wooden houses and boathouses, which characterized the town, were lost. Since then, industrial buildings and concrete blocks have been the norm in Måløy, providing an ideal backdrop for street art.
The Måløy Raid Center
The Måløy Raid Center is an interactive museum that embeds visitors in the dramatic war story of the Måløy Raid, also known as Operation Archery, where on December 27, 1941, British Combined Operations raided German forces positioned on the island.
Skongenes Lighthouse
Experience the fresh salty air at Skongenes lighthouse. Enjoy the silence in the sheltered yard and explore an eldorado of cliffs and exciting trails.
Skongenes lighthouse was established in 1870 and was important for boat traffic on the rough Stad ocean. The lighthouse is an hour walk over the mountains from Halsør. A beautiful trip that is suitable for everyone. On a good day when the ocean is calm, a boat can take you to the pier so that visitors can go ashore.
Discover More
Port Facilities & Location
The port is about a half a mile for the center of town.
Explore Places to Eat and Drink
Måløy is a surprisingly delightful foodie heaven with plenty of fresh seafood and artisanal eats. Mussels and a variety of fish dishes really do take the (proverbial) cake here. Head to Kraftstasjonen Restaurant for some delicious fish and chips or fish soup, or head to La Voile for a large selection of sushi.
Culture & History
Måløy was founded as a trading center on the small island of Moldøen, or Måløya, on the Ulvesundet strait between Vågsøy island and the mainland. As trade flourished, the town gradually moved to the larger island of Vågsøy, while keeping the name of the smaller island. This is the cause of some confusion, although the smaller island is today often known as “Lisje-Måløyna” (literally smaller Måløy) or “Øyna” (literally the island). During World War II, it was used as a German coastal fortress, which led to the eradication of all settlement on the island to make room for the fortress, and as a result of Operation Archery in December 1941.
Shop 'Til You Drop
When you visit Måløy, Norway, pick up some artisanal oils, preserves, coffee and drinks at Kraftstasjonen’s deli to take a taste of Maloy back home. Vintage pewter goods make another great gift, especially as they generally have Viking themes. Norwegians love the outdoors, so you’ll also find plenty of high-quality hiking gear — even in the grocery store!
Getting around
Visitors can travel by foot, bus and taxi.
Local Currency & Tipping Etiquette
Norwegian Krone is the local currency used in Måløy.
Whilst enjoying local cafes and restaurants, you do not need to leave a tip – a service charge is included in the bill. However, it is customary (and seen as a nice gesture) to round your bill up to the nearest 10 or 100 NOK for great service.
