Family kayak camping: circular routes with beaches and fishing

A family holiday where you go kayaking in Norway's national parks is a great way to spend time together, fish, relax on nice beaches and warm up by the evening campfire. You can travel in a circle, up to 15 km a day, so you can travel comfortably and safely. You will have unforgettable memories for the whole family.

Which parts of Norway are the best for kayaking in the fjords with your family?

Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord are great places for family holidays. There are lots of quiet bays and sandy beaches where you can easily set up camp and build a campfire. The water is calm and safe for children, and the views of the fjords will make your holiday unforgettable.

Which campsites and places for rest are good for family kayaking?

The best options are Odda Camping (Hardangerfjord) and Ramberg Gjestegård (Lofoten). They are close to the water and have everything you need for a comfortable family holiday: convenient beaches, safe places to pitch tents and areas for evening campfires.

How can you go kayaking or fishing with children?

Remember to bring light tackle and a portable fish finder weighing less than 200g, which will help children feel like real 'fish hunters'. Make sure you fish at a safe depth, explain how to handle fishing equipment to children, and don't forget life jackets.

Which animals can you see on the family routes?

You might see moose, reindeer, seals and many seabirds on these routes. Stay back and keep quiet so that the animals are not bothered and your children can watch them without being scared.

What are the rules for lighting fires on beaches?

You can have a fire in the special areas and on the beaches, as long as the national park rules don't say you can't. Make sure you check the local instructions first. And remember to put out the fire completely and clean up after yourself.

How can I organise easy meals on a family trip?

If you want to have meals with your family that are easy to make, bring foods that are light and quick to cook, such as soups, porridge and pasta. You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in zip-lock bags. You can cook the fish straight from the sea over a campfire, and you can pick berries along the way too.

What is Allemannsretten and how does it apply to family kayaking routes?

Allemannsretten lets you travel freely and stay overnight almost anywhere, except on private property and near houses (150 metres). Please follow these rules:

- Make sure you tidy up after yourself.

- Do not damage the plants.

- Show respect to other tourists.

How do I choose safe kayaking routes for my family?

Choose routes that are no more than 15 km each day and stay away from open water and strong currents. The best routes are in sheltered bays and fjords where there are hardly any waves or wind.

Family kayak camping in Norway's beautiful national parks is such a wonderful opportunity to create special memories together, teach children to respect nature and enjoy the fresh air with the whole family.

Have you ever been on a family kayaking trip? We'd absolutely love to see your favourite routes, tips and photos, so please share them in the comments! We'll be publishing the best stories and photos in our catalogue to inspire other parents to embark on exciting family adventures.