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.
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?
Book your experience
Padleheimen – Courses and guided tours in the beautiful Støttvær archipelago
Join a guided tour or kayak course in the stunning Støttvær islands. Enjoy birdwatching and the peaceful waters and striking landscapes, or challenge yourself in rougher seas along the outer edge of the islands.
Vitensenter Nordland – A science center for the whole family
At Mo i Rana’s science centre, Vitensenter Nordland, you can experiment, explore, and learn about the natural world, technology and mathematics. The interactive exhibition encourages you to touch and be active, not just to see. And the centre offers activities for the whole family.
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.
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
Kulturbadet in Sandnessjøen
With a swimming pool, cinema, library, and theater all under one roof, Kulturbadet in Sandnessjøen offers activities for the whole family and then some!
Skillevollen Alpine Center
Skillevollen Alpine Center is part of a larger winter activity center in Mo i Rana. Take the family skiing on the alpine slopes, the cross-country trail or on the ice rink in winter.
Sijti Jarnge – Center for sami language and culture
Sijti Jarnge is a Sami language and cultural center located in Hattfjelldal, where you can experience and learn about Sami culture in Helgeland.
Klokkergården – Stay in nostalgic surroundings on the island of Rødøy
At the foot of the majestic mountain called Rødøyløva, is the stately Klokkergården, a sexton’s residence that dates back to 1904. Here you can enjoy warm hospitality in surroundings that recall a bygone era.
Træna Kaffekollektiv – Charming coffee bar in Træna
Træna Kaffekollektiv is a small and cozy coffee bar offering stunning views over Trænfjorden, serving the finest coffee in the archipelago.
Sjokoladebrygga on Dønna
Visit “the world’s smallest chocolate factory” by the sea on Dønna and experience how delicious chocolate can be when made with care and attention to exclusive, organic ingredients.