Four peaceful winter getaways
Kristoffer Møllevik / Visit Helgeland
When the days turn cold and clear, and nature slows down for a while, it’s the perfect time to take a relaxing break from everyday life. Here are four winter weekends for anyone looking to slow down and simply enjoy the moment.
A taste tour in the world heritage
The coastal town of Brønnøysund, in the southern part of Helgeland, is the ideal getaway if you’re in need of a break. The crisp sea air and soft winter light beneath the wide-open sky create a true sense of space and calm. Take it slow — visit the legendary mountain Torghatten, stroll through town, or take a day trip to the island of Vega to explore the UNESCO-listed cultural heritage.
The winter light is especially beautiful along the coast. Here, we see the island of Søla just off Vega.
In the areas around Brønnøysund and Vega, both farmers and fishermen thrive. From fertile soil and rich seas come outstanding ingredients that local restaurants turn into memorable meals. Here, you can go from one culinary experience to the next — from the cosy Hildurs Urterarium and the urban Svang Restaurant & Wine Bar to the elegant Vega Havhotell, just to name a few.
Winter in Sjøgata
Where the great salmon river Vefsna flows into the fjord, a town once began to grow. From salmon fishing and timber trading, the small church settlement slowly blossomed — with hotels, trading posts, cafés and wharves. A hundred and fifty years ago, it had become a small town. Many of the old buildings and boathouses still stand along the historic street of Sjøgata, now home to cafés, shops and places to stay. Walk down the street, stop for a coffee, and watch the river flow by at its own gentle pace — it’s a place that reminds you life doesn’t always have to move so fast. Sometimes, you really do get to set your own tempo.
Sjøgata is especially cosy and charming in winter.
Mosjøen also has a vibrant cultural scene, with events big and small throughout the year. Highlights include the Christmas town in December and the Bysprinten ski festival in April, with concerts, theatre, comedy shows and much more in between. And after coffee and culture, it’s just a short step into your next winter adventure—whether it’s a quiet stroll along the river, skiing through the snow-covered forest, dog sledding in the mountains, or enjoying dinner on a guided snowshoe trip under the open sky.
Find your calm in Sandnessjøen, the coastal town beneath the Seven Sisters
With their seven peaks rising 1,000 metres above sea level, towering over the low-lying landscape below, the legendary mountains of the Seven Sisters are a striking sight. A popular attraction in summer, they may be at their most beautiful when dressed in snow. In the soft winter light, the peaks almost glow in pastel hues — and it’s hard to imagine a more majestic backdrop for a winter visit. This is a wonderful time to experience the Helgeland coast, from the coastal town of Sandnessjøen and the neighbouring islands of Dønna and Herøy.
The Seven Sisters are especially striking in winter white, glowing in soft seasonal light.
How about a relaxed café-to-café tour? Start with a good cup of coffee at the hotel, then visit the striking Petter Dass Museum before catching the ferry to the scenic Herøy islands and stopping by the incredibly charming Skolo café on Seløy. In Sandnessjøen, you’ll also find the Kulturbadet — a cultural hub with a water park, cinema, theatre stages and a library, located right next to the Scandic Syv Søstre hotel. In other words, a perfect setup for families with children: activities during the day and a good meal in the restaurant come evening.
Experience Mo i Rana — the little “big city” of Helgeland
Head a bit further north in Helgeland, all the way to the end of the Ranfjord, and you’ll arrive in Mo i Rana; Helgeland’s little big city. Here, you’ll find cosy cafés and great restaurants, wine bars and coffee bars, a cinema, theatre, climbing centre and science centre and more. Strolling through the town centre feels like a small-scale city break, while still being just 30 minutes away from stunning mountain hikes, Northern Lights outings, and beautiful winter adventures.
There’s something special about taking shelter from the winter weather and enjoying a good concert.
As the sun and daylight gradually return to this town just south of the Arctic Circle, it’s lit up even more by the Winter Light Festival each February. For seven days, the city comes alive with cultural events of all sizes, for audiences of all ages. Expect theatre and dance, films and shows, monologues and conversations — with moments of humour, reflection, and everything in between. In short, it’s the perfect time to experience winter life and winter light in the north.
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The Mosjøen Christmas village
Sjøgata is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and the christmas town Mosjøen welcomes you to enjoy the festive season throughout December with Christmas workshops, concerts, performances, and—most notably—the world’s longest Christmas porridge table, spreading holiday cheer for all ages.
Vitensenter Nordland – A science center for the whole family
At Mo i Rana’s science centre, Vitensenter Nordland, you can experiment, explore, and learn about the natural world, technology and mathematics. The interactive exhibition encourages you to touch and be active, not just to see. And the centre offers activities for the whole family.
Mosjøen Hotell
Mosjøen Hotel is a cosy little hotel conveniently situated along highway E6, just 1.5 km from the Mosjøen town centre. Being within easy reach of many sights and attractions, it is an excellent base for day excursions along the coast and into the inland wilderness.
Plura Valley in Rana – A divers paradise!
Many experienced divers consider Plura Valley to offer world-class diving. Their facility offers everything you need for a perfect diving holiday. Moreover, they are situated right by the entrance of the underwater cave, Pluragrotta.
Gildevangen Konditori – Lunch, coffee, and cakes
At Gildevangen Konditori in Olderskog, Mosjøen, you can enjoy a tasty lunch, relax with a coffee or iced tea, and perhaps indulge in a slice of cake—or even three.
Audio guide Brønnøysund – a walk through 10,000 years of history
Brønnøysund is more than a beautiful coastal town – it’s a living map of history, with traces of people, trade, and life along the coast over 10,000 years. This audio guide lets you explore the town’s rich past and present at your own pace, right in the heart of a landscape scattered with thousands of islands, islets, and skerries.
Events in Mosjøen
In the event calendar at iMosjøen.no, you’ll find a complete overview of everything happening in the city – from sports events and markets to concerts and festivals.
Christmas weekend in Mosjøen
In the first weekend of December, the town of Mosjøen invites you to a warm‑hearted Christmas experience! The friendly town decorates the charming wooden houses of its historic centre with lights, and fills its streets with music and elves. Explore booths where craftsmen and merchants offer their wares, warm yourself by the fire in a lavvo, and dine on traditional Norwegian Christmas fare.
Guided Snowmobile Safari and Northern Lights Hunt
Hi North takes you into the wilderness just outside Mosjøen to the snowmobile trails and excellent lighting conditions. Skilled guides will train you and take you on a fun and thrilling snowmobile safari in spectacular surroundings.
Topcamp Mosjøen
Located conveniently by the E6 at the entrance to Mosjøen, Topcamp Mosjøen is just steps away from some of the town’s most beautiful outdoor and activity areas. The campsite boasts a large playground, spaces tailored for motorhomes, caravans, and tents, and offers guests a choice of comfortable cabins and apartments.
