Dønnes Gård – Accommodation in historical surroundings

Dønnes Gård on the island of Dønna, offers a holiday stay in a former vicarage. The historical surroundings actually date back to the 13th century. Guests here can dine on traditional dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. To hear the colourful history, take a guided tour of the vicarage and the neighbouring medieval church.

As a guest, you can choose between a large double room in the stately vicarage or a simpler room in the old schoolhouse next door. The latter is especially suitable for groups that want to share accommodation. The schoolhouse has 11 beds, its own kitchen, living room and bathroom. Outside, there is a barbecue. All guests can order breakfast (included) and dinner in the vicarage.

The double rooms in the vicarage are divided into sections so you don’t have to share a bathroom with others.

Please book your accommodation by email or phone so they can take your needs and desires into account. Breakfast is included.

Next to the vicarage is the mediaeval Dønnes church, built in the 13th century. The soapstone church has a distinctive architecture and decorations, as well as Norway’s largest and best-preserved burial chamber, dating back to the 17th century, with 22 coffins ready to tell their story. The surrounding gardens have a gazebo and are landscaped in the English style. Nearby is a farm shop that specialises in creative locally produced goods.

From the churchyard there is a nature and culture trail that leads to the top of Dønnesfjellet (128 m), which enjoys a stunning view of the Helgeland coast. The walk takes about 20 minutes.

The vicarage has a café open in the summer. Its adjoining room is a library that displays hunting trophies and contains a collection of historical books from Dønna and Helgeland.

We recommend a guided tour of the vicarage and the medieval church, including its burial chamber. Amongst other things, you will hear about the wealthy family that once owned large swathes of Helgeland. The vicarage, Dønnes Gård, has been awarded St. Olav’s Rose (Olavsrosa) for its impressive efforts to preserve the local heritage.

Read more about Helgeland at www.visithelgeland.com