When you travel the scenic Helgeland coast, you are at the heart of one of Norway’s most important industries: aquaculture. And the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre is right on the water at Toftsundet, in the middle of the country’s salmon farming industry. Here you can observe every phase of the salmon’s life up close. A gangway takes you to the centre’s salmon pens. Nearby are the rorbu, the traditional fishermen’s cabins, as well as a building that houses a historic exhibition and the centre’s restaurant.
Rorbu cabins
The Aquaculture Centre is situated on the island of Toft, just 7 km from Brønnøysund town centre. Here, you are in the midst of scenic islands, while everything the town has to offer is within easy reach. Moreover, Toft is halfway to Torghatten, the famous mountain with a hole through it. It’s also the perfect base for hiking the mountains, exploring the tide-pools and shoreline, and going on fishing trips. For all these reasons, many travellers choose to stay just here. And added bonus is the opportunity to gain insights into the life of salmon and modern aquaculture. Read More
Stay in newly renovated and cozy rooms at Hildurs Urterarium outside Brønnøysund. Here you are met by pleasant hosts in homely and good surroundings.
Hildurs Urterarium
Hildurs Urterarium is located on Tilrem, about 6.5 km north of Brønnøysund. The farm has been a gathering place for people since the Viking Age, and people still gather from far and wide to enjoy beautiful nature, tasty food and good company. Read More
The old trading post at Forvik in Vevelstad, which dates back to 1792, is beautifully situated on the sea along route Fv17. Accommodation in charming surroundings is offered in the oldest building, Grålåna. There is a restaurant in Naustloftet, and a coffee roastery in the old general store. People often gather in Brygga, the wharf building, to enjoy the long bright summer evenings.
A historic place on the Helgeland coast
Forvik Old Trading Post has drawn people for more than 200 years. If you stay in Grålåna, its ambience will really give you a sense of this history. This close to the Arctic Circle, the summer evening stays bright almost until midnight. Naustloftet restaurant serves hearty dishes based on local traditions. A visit to the coffee roastery next door is recommended. Read More
With Offersøy Camping as your holiday base, you can easily explore the islands of your choice along the Helgeland coast. You can island hop by kayak, or by bringing your bicycle on the express boat or ferry so you can explore various islands on two wheels. Either way, it’s a delightful way to immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage and feel close to the magnificent landscape and natural elements.
Cultural history
Offersøy Camping is just a short drive or bike ride away from a museum and the cultural path at Tjøtta. Also nearby is Tjøtta’s International War Cemetery. A must-visit is the Petter Dass Museum, housed in a striking building designed by Norway’s renowned architects, Snøhetta. The museum celebrates Petter Dass, a 17th-century poet-priest. The museum is situated near a medieval church at Alstahaug. Read More
The Vega World Heritage Centre, which is beautifully located at Gardsøy, documents the history and culture of the Vega islanders. Here you can gain fascinating insights into the lives of these fishermen-farmers, and about their centuries-old local tradition of protecting the eider ducks who come to nest here – a tradition that led to Vega being granted UNESCO’s World Heritage status.
A tribute to a unique cultural landscape and to the contribution of women
Vega Archipelago was inscribed on UNESCO's list of world natural and cultural heritage sites in 2004. The rationale states: "Vega Archipelago demonstrates how generations of fishermen and farmers over the past 1,500 years have maintained a sustainable way of life in a harsh environment near the Arctic Circle, based on the now unique tradition of eider farming. The status is also a tribute to women's contributions to the eiderdown process." Read More
When you are on holiday in Helgeland, there are many tempting festivals. Here are some of the biggest ones. Træna Festival One of the most exciting ways to experience the Helgeland coast is to attend the Træna Festival, one of the most amazing cultural events in Northern Norway. Read More
The House by the Sea is a unique experience, thanks to its scenic location, incredible view and innovative architecture. The three cabins are designed to make your scenic experience an integral part of your holiday accommodation.
In Træna, you can stay in architect-designed cabins with strikingly beautiful views. From the cabins, you look straight at the majestic Trænstaven, and you can experience the midnight sun, autumn storms, or the northern lights up close. Read More
