Hidra

Get ready for sun and salty sea before you arrive at Hidra.

That’s how Rose Mari describes life on Hidra, where she has lived with her husband and children since 2010. With firsthand experience of the island’s rich coastal culture, she has seen how the traditions embrace children from an early age.

-Yes, they do have a lobster festival in kindergarten, Rose laughs.

The youngest children get their own lobster traps to drop from the pier and pull up later. The slightly older ones row out in small boats to catch lobsters. The oldest (those around five years old) join the motorboats for the real experience. The freshly caught delicacies are then served at a seafood feast in kindergarten, along with shrimp donated by the local fishery.

-Life at sea is undoubtedly a big part of the culture here. The children learn where seafood and fish come from, they learn how to be safe in boats, and most of them can operate a motorboat on their own before they turn ten, she says.

Hidra is split in two by the canal Eiekanalen, a passage for small boats. And along the shoreline, countless big and small adventures await.

For those who prefer a view from above, there are plenty of great vantage points. The highest peak on Hidra is Langelandsfjellet, rising 291 meters above sea level. From the summit, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the sea, making it a magical spot for both sunrises and sunsets. The peak is also home to the Langeland Monument, erected in 1914 to mark the 100th anniversary of Norway’s Constitution from 1814.

The mountain Hågåsen towers over Kirkehamn, offering a scenic hike through oak forests and lush greenery. Still, for many, it’s the sea that calls. Life on Hidra is deeply connected to the ocean, and you’ll find a love for boats everywhere.

From details like beautiful model ships displayed in windows to friendly gatherings at the harbors and Coastal Culture Center. This is where locals come together to restore and build boats, passing down traditions from one generation to the next.

-There’s no doubt that boating is a big part of life here, says Rose, who runs a small farm with wild sheep and a flock of happy hens.

Even Roses’ sheep are used to boats on Hidra! In the spring, they’re transported by boat to nearby islands, where they spend the summer roaming freely before returning home in the fall.

-But there’s plenty more going on here, too, she adds.

-Many kids play football, and we also have a youth club. A hiking group explores the forests and mountains, and lots of people go to the gym or take part in group fitness classes like aerobics and strength training. There are also craft nights and lots of activities at the Coastal Culture Center.

A classic example is the annual Christmas tree lighting. Just about everyone shows up, and people pitch in. That’s one of the biggest strengths of this small community.

Many children and teenagers also participate in activities in Flekkefjord, the nearby mainland town. A short seven-minute car ferry ride, followed by a 15-minute drive, takes you to the city, where you’ll find cinemas, restaurants, cultural events, and various leisure activities. In addition, many Hidra residents commute to Flekkefjord for work. Maybe even a majority of the islanders work in Flekkefjord. With such a short trip, it’s no hassle!

For more information about Flekkefjord, click here.

So, what do people at Hidra do for a living? In addition to those who commute to Flekkefjord, many make their livelihood from the sea. The island is home to several salmon farms, producing high-quality fish that is exported worldwide.

One of the key players in Hidra’s seafood industry is Hidra Fiskemottak. A true dream for seafood lovers. The processing facility receives weekly deliveries of shrimp and crab. In addition, fishing boats bring in a variety of seasonal seafood treasures. Hidra Fiskemottak collaborates closely with partners in Kristiansand and Stavanger, allowing them to supply nearly anything a seafood enthusiast could wish for. Almost all local shops and restaurants in the area get their seafood from here. The facility also has a direct sales outlet, open by appointment. It’s just a phone call away.

And speaking of seafood, Hidra’s culinary highlight is Isbua, beautifully located by the waterfront in Kirkehamn. With its relaxed atmosphere and dedication to fresh, local ingredients, Isbua has become a beloved gathering place for both locals and visitors. Whether you're in the mood for a taste of the ocean or simply want to enjoy the coastal vibe, this charming spot offers an authentic slice of Hidra life.

The service industry plays a significant role at Hidra. The island has two grocery stores, one of which includes a café named Bakrommet. Here you can get awesome food and an ice-cold beer.

For example, Kongshamn Gjestgiveri is a beautifully restored guesthouse. It is the result of dedicated craftsmen and passionate locals working together to preserve the historic charm of the house. The six rooms feature original timber walls, delicate, white lace curtains, and soft pastel tones, reflecting a bygone era.

For those seeking a more secluded getaway, Utsyn is a rental cabin offering spectacular views. Perfect for a romantic escape or a peaceful retreat!

Motorhome enthusiasts will appreciate Kirkehamn Motorhome Park, situated right by the beach in Fiskerihavna.

If you're after an Instagram-worthy stay, look no further than Nyperosa. A bright pink stunning cabin with breathtaking ocean views.

In short, Hidra offers plenty of opportunities for those in the hospitality and service industry, as well as an abundance of great experiences for visitors.

Hidra has plenty to offer for those with an interest in culture and history. In fact, the entire island is pretty much steeped in tales of harbors, fisheries, and the golden age of sailing ships.

For those who love stepping back in time, the small museum Fedrenes Minne in Rasvåg is a must-visit. Here, you’ll find the island’s history told through artifacts and texts, spanning from the Stone Age to modern times.

Remnants of past events can also be found atop Hågåsen, the mountain overlooking Kirkehamn. Due to Hidra’s strategically important location, the German occupation forces built a major artillery fortress here during World War II. It’s still standing.

In short, Hidra is full of discoveries waiting to be made. The islanders here warmly welcome new residents. With or without a lobster trap in their suitcase!