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 eight 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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Blomsterbua Food & Wine in Mosjøen
On Sjøgata, the historic street in the heart of Mosjøen, you will find Blomsterbua Food & Wine. This cosy and beautifully decorated restaurant is suitable for every occasion.
Velfjord Museum
The Brønnøy and Velfjord districts share an ancient history of fishing and farming, as well as a proud indigenous Sámi culture. You can gain many cultural insights by visiting the exhibitions in the old supermarket at Minnetun, as well as in the goahti (reconstructed turf hut) near here.
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.
Hotel Scandic Seven Sisters – Accomodation Sandnessjøen
As a guest, you will immediately realize why the Hotel Scandic Syv Søstre bears the name of the Seven Sisters mountains. The hotel enjoys a great view of these renowned mountains. A holiday base here is perfect for exploring the many island treasures of the Helgeland coast, including Dønna and its colourful history, the idyllic island of Herøy, and the Vega archipelago, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Galleri Stokland in Mosjøen
In a charming wooden house from 1852, on Sjøgata street in the historic heart of Mosjøen, you will find Galleri Stokland. On display are colourful artworks, knitwear, glass and ceramics by creative local craftsmen and artists.
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
I Ro og Mak at Straumen Farm
Heartwarming stay and accommodation in the cozy Grandma’s Cabin. Find peace close to nature and the simple life in the countryside.
Rana Museum, Stenneset open-air Museum and Bredek Mountain Farm
Rana municipality has a fascinating and varied history, which the exhibitions at MOment, the new museum in Mo i Rana’s town centre, reveals in the form of a multi-sensory experience.In addition, at Stenneset’s open-air museum, you can stroll amongst 20 historic buildings, while the mountain farm at Brenek is a popular hiking destination.
Bysprinten ski festival
Sports event in Mosjøen
April 24th to 26th
Bysprintent in Mosjøen is a festive ski race, where world-class athletes, local stars, and promising talents ski together through the center of Mosjøen. With a focus on skiing joy and good sportsmanship, accompanied by music, a great atmosphere, and packed venues, Bysprintent always provides an excellent reason to visit Mosjøen.
Ski touring gourmet weekend with Til Elise and MAD Mountain Guides
Join a first-class ski touring weekend with guided ski tours in the snow-covered Helgeland mountains, relaxing afternoons in the sauna, and exceptional culinary experiences.
