Helgeland invites you to experience unforgettable winter moments. See how our magnificent coast is transformed as the rose-coloured dawn tints the edge of the dark sky. Stand and marvel as the Northern Lights’ green ribbons dance against the stars above the mountain wilderness! And no matter where you are staying, you can look forward to the legendary Helgeland hospitality.
Simon Fossheim
Discover your winter paradise in Helgeland!
Some people insist that you have to come here in the winter to experience the real Helgeland. One thing is for sure: our landscapes are never more beautiful than at dawn, when the wind calms and the winter sun turns the snowy mountains rosy and dyes the sky deep purple. And once you come back inside from the cold with reddish cheeks and thoughts cleared by a cool coastal wind, nothing is more warming than a cup of coffee by the fire, and the smiling face of a weathered old Helgelander. For they themselves have lived many such winter days, and the true measure of a Helgelander is in their ability to live life to the fullest, come sun or come snow!
Explore the wonderful mountain wilderness
Naturally, Helgeland can never promise exactly when the weather gods will grant us snow, but you are almost guaranteed snow in the winter. Just inland from our coast and fjords are extensive mountain ranges and scenic hill country. Here you will discover wonderful opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and back country skiing, summits waiting to be challenged, and off-piste skiing down slopes of virgin snow. We even have networks of special snowmobile trails! A myriad of lakes offers great fishing even during the winter. In magnificent Helgeland, you need never venture far to find great adventure destinations, many of them just off the beaten track.
Experience the snow-draped Helgeland coast
The Helgeland coast is at least as magical in the winter as it is in the summer, and likewise with the inland tracts. It is a time of contrasts: snow-covered mountains lighting up the months-long winter darkness, when the low winter sun makes them glow in hues of pink and violet. Northern Lights flickering green across the night sky, high above the myriad of islands deserted as well as inhabited. The contrast between the crisp, cold winter air and warm cosy houses where piping-hot beverages, a good meal and cheerful hospitality await.
Helgeland at a slower pace
Granted, the magnificent scenery can also be enjoyed at a very leisurely pace. You can feast on reindeer meat in a warm Sámi lavvo, and watch the Northern Lights while warming yourself by a crackling fire. Perhaps savour the panorama from nearby mountains, or go snowshoeing in the Seven Sisters mountain range. Drop a fishing line to catch your dinner; go sea-rafting to explore the wintery coast; or go on a snowmobile safari deep into the mountains.
And you know what? You don’t even have to feel compelled to do that. You can just take it easy, go for a stroll, enjoy the silence and slowly absorb the scenic beauty, the magical light and amazing contrasts, and the character of the people who make Helgeland their home. Set your own pace and take all the time in the world. What could be more satisfying?
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Træna Arctic Fishing
Selvær, the second-biggest island of the Træna archipelago, is a quiet and cosy fishing community. Like the rest of Træna, it faces the open sea and lies far from the mainland. Here, you can stay in a modern quayside holiday apartment, and experience scenic Helgeland at its best. You will find excellent fishing, literally thousands of islets and skerries, amazing birdlife, and skies that glow late into the summer nights.
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.
Restaurant Sjyen
With delicious food, fine wine, beautiful views, and a casually elegant atmosphere, Sjyen is a great choice for a memorable meal, perfect for any day or a special celebration. Here, you’ll find fresh, modern dishes that showcase the best of the sea – or “sjyen,” as the locals say.
Dønna Rorbuer Bøteriet – A charming restaurant and accommodation
Dønna Rorbuer Bøteriet, situated on the quay in beautiful surroundings on the island of Dønna, offers good dining in charming surroundings, accommodation and guided boat trips.
Vevelstad Gjestegård and Rorbuer
Vevelstad Gjestegård offers bed and breakfast accommodation in historic surroundings, located near the center of Vevelstad, a small municipality just north of Brønnøysund. The guesthouse serves homemade local traditional food and has a farm shop in the storehouse.
Træna Rorbuferie
The Træna archipelago is surrounded by the open sea. Træna Rorbuferie is situated on Husøya, the most populated of these islands. Here, amidst magnificent scenic surroundings, you have a golden opportunity to experience the thriving coastal culture of a vibrant island community.
Rauvassgården mountain farm in scenic surroundings
The historic Rauvassgården is a gem in the mountains outside Mo i Rana, perfect for larger groups on a trip together, or smaller groups looking for ample space.
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.
Sømna Kro og Gjestegård
A welcoming inn offering comfort and a taste of local culture in the charming village of Vik, Sømna. Here, you can enjoy a pleasant stay and great food in peaceful surroundings, close to nature and a charming cultural landscape.
Exhibition: The Life and Work of Ole Edvart Rølvaag
Ole Edvart Rølvaag emigrated from Dønna to the USA in the late 1800s. There, he wrote several novels about emigrating from Norway and being an immigrant in the USA during that time. At the Dønna exhibition, you can learn more about the author’s life and work and see the complete collection of Ole Edvart Rølvaag’s first editions.
