Four peaceful winter getaways
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.
In 2025, the town turns 150. Mosjøen will celebrate as any proud jubilar should — and everyone’s invited. Expect performances and storytelling evenings, café talks and dance concerts. It’s the perfect occasion to enjoy all the culture, cafés and restaurants Mosjøen has to offer. And between coffee and culture, you can head out on small or big winter adventures — take a slow walk along the river, enjoy the snowy forest on cross-country skis, explore the mountains by dogsled, or end the day with dinner on a guided snowshoe walk beneath the stars..
Finn roen i Sandnessjøen kystbyen under de Syv Søstre
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 Petter Dass Museum
At Alstahaug you will find a museum and a church that highlight centuries of the cultural and architectural history of Northern Norway. Moreover, the area is rich in cultural monuments and is a popular hiking area for both locals and tourists. The Petter Dass Museum and Alstahaug were chosen as Nordland County’s venues to celebrate the dawning of a new millennium.
Kulturverkstedet Mosjøen – A cultural workshop
The cultural workshop in the old town, Sjøgata in Mosjøen, is a unique environment where past and present blend together.
Guided city walk in Mo i Rana
Join a guided city walk and hear the story of life just below the Arctic Circle, at 66 degrees north.
Mosjøen / Mussere 150 Years
In 2025, Mosjøen celebrates 150 years as a town, and you’re invited to the party – or FÆST, as the locals say.
Hotel Svartisen – Apartment hotel in the middle of Mo I Rana
At Hotell Svartisen, you can stay close to everything Mo i Rana has to offer, within walking distance of parks and shopping centers, restaurants and cafés, a science center, and a museum
YogaBiret – yoga experiences immersed in Helgeland’s nature
Experience yoga surrounded by the landscapes of Helgeland – whether through a full weekend of Ashtanga Yoga on Dønna or a single outdoor session in nature. These offerings create a unique blend of movement, calm and the natural world, adding meaning and depth to your journey through Helgeland.
Norwegian Aquaculture Centre – Northern Lights Safari on the Helgeland Coast
Join an unforgettable Northern Lights experience along the southern part of the Helgeland coast. Aboard a comfortable yacht, we set out in search of the magical Aurora Borealis in one of Norway’s most scenic coastal areas. With the sea beneath us and the sky above, we glide silently across calm waters, far from city lights and noise.
To Elise from Marius – From farm to table
In the village of Utskarpen, between Mo i Rana and Nesna, Elise and Marius established a culinary attraction that is drawing a steady stream of foodies. They offer a dining experience where every dish is made from ingredients fresh from the farm and pasture. They also offer accommodation – charming rooms in a countryside setting.
Kjemsåsen ski resort
With slopes catering to all levels, Kjemsåsen Alpine Center is the perfect destination for families looking for a fun and adventurous ski experience. Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned skier, or a future alpinist, Kjemsåsen has something for everyone. Let the kids learn on the gentle children’s slope, while older beginners enjoy the rolling green run and the seasoned skiers test their skills on the challenging red and black run.
Jacobsenbrygga and the folk museum in Mosjøen
The Vefsn Museum has numerous exhibitions at several locations in and around the town of Mosjøen. These focus on everything from rural life and urban history, to weapons smuggling and the work of the Norwegian resistance during Nazi Germany’s World War II occupation. You can also join a guided tour of the historical street Sjøgata, which is lined with 19th-century houses.
