Few of the coastal fishing villages are as surrounded by myths as Nyksund. The proximity to the fishing grounds and good harbor conditions made the place an attractive fishing village for traveling fishermen from the Norwegian coast. Later, Nyksund was completely abandoned.
At the turn of the previous century, Nyksund was one of the most active and vibrant fishing communities in Vesterålen, until the decline and abandonment in the 1970s. The properties were left behind, and the piers fell into the sea.
The buildings in Nyksund are spread across two islands, Nyksundøya and Ungsmaløya. These islands are connected by a 65-meter long pier. A pier also connects Nyksundøya to Langøya. A municipal gravel road runs between Nyksund and Høydalen, and from there an asphalt road leads to Myre, the municipal center.
After World War II, the proximity to the fishing grounds became less important as new technology in the form of engines and larger boats was utilized. The harbor in Nyksund became too small, and the urban settlement of Myre took over as the main fishing harbor in the area. The fishing village was gradually depopulated, and after the last permanent residents received relocation grants from the state, Nyksund was completely abandoned around 1970. Nyksund stood deserted as a ghost town and became a destination for people far and near who wished to experience "the aesthetics of decay."
In the 1980s and 90s, German students came to Nyksund and created new activity there. Eventually, the place became popular for visiting artists and tourists. Since the turn of the last century, Nyksund has experienced a new upswing; more people have moved to the area, and even more wish to establish themselves here if given the opportunity.
Today, Nyksund offers year-round attractions to tourists, and the distinctive architecture and atmosphere of the place can be experienced both in summer and winter. The once abandoned fishing village in Vesterålen now houses several restaurants.
Nyksund has also been a popular place for photographers and visual artists. For example, the feature films "After Rubicon" and "Insomnia" were partially shot in Nyksund.
Between Nyksund and Stø runs the hiking trail "Dronningruta" (The Queen's Route). It is the most famous hiking trail in Øksnes. Dronningruta is named after the Norwegian Queen Sonja, who has walked this route.
Several small islands and islets north of Nyksund and Stø are protected as nature reserves. This area is an important production area for seabirds and harbor seals. In the areas around Nyksund, you can experience beautiful and rugged coastal landscapes with constantly changing and exciting weather.
Click to view more images from Nyksund in Vesterålen:
Nyksund. Vesterålen. Norway. @Bjørn Joachimsen
All images on this page is captured with Pentax 645N and Ilford Delta 100.