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.
Book your experience
Sure Hotel by Best Western Ole Tobias
Sure Hotel by Best Western Ole Tobias offers accommodation in the town centre of Mo i Rana. The hotel is decorated with details from Norway’s railway history. Breakfast is served in “Spisevogna” (the Dining Car).
Hildurs Urterarium – Culinary adventures
Hildurs Urterarium is far more than a restaurant. It is a lush oasis imbued with life and personality, offering guests a respite from their busy lives and a unique dining experience shared with friends or family. Restaurant Sagastuen and the old parlour have an ambience that gives visitors a taste of bygone times.
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.
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.
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.
Strawberry Home Hotel Helma
The Strawberry Home Hotel Helma is centrally situated in the town Mo i Rana. The hotel offers accommodation designed to make you feel right at home. Its location is conveniently near the shops, the theatre, the science centre Vitensenter Nordland, and the town’s attractive Fjord Promenade. Breakfast, afternoon coffee and a hot supper are always included in the price.
Velfjordferie – A holiday stay for guests who love fishing!
Velfjordferie is beautifully situated by the fjord, with great fishing spots and hiking trails nearby! The area lies just south of the Arctic Circle, which means you have daylight virtually round-the-clock, from mid-May to the end of July. Fishing is especially popular at “night”, when the wind dies down and the sea often is calm as a mirror.
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.
Skogmo Family Camping
Skogmo Family Camping is idyllic situated in tranquil surroundings 12 km south of Brønnøysund. It offers a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere well away from the city, where children can play freely and safely.
Brasserie 8622
On September 7, 2023, Brasserie 8622 opened its doors in newly renovated premises in the center of Mo i Rana. The menu is inspired by French cuisine, made with top-quality local ingredients.
