Ørnes is the administrative centre of the municipality of Meløy in Nordland county, Norway. The old village is mentioned in documents dating from 1610 when a tenant farmer lived here.
Ørnes lies at the northern coast of Helgeland and is the largest settlement and transport hub in Meløy municipality, with its ca. 1,700 inhabitants. It is surrounded by a wonderful archipelago with 700 islands and more than 30 mountain peaks as a backdrop, some over 1,000 metres high. Ørnes offers a wide range of shops, a medical centre, pharmacy, off license, several eateries and hotels. The Merchant's centre from 1794 makes the perfect stop. Sit down and sense the historic atmosphere with the help of several exhibitions.
In Ørnes you can also visit the Love bench. It stands at the tip of the pier Bring your sweetheart and a padlock. Attach the lock behind the bench and throw the keys into the sea to make sure your love will last forever. From the bench you will also be able to enjoy views of the beautiful archipelago. In Ørnes you are close to the second largest glacier in Norway, Svartisen and the Arctic Circle.