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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Hotel Sjyen – with fjord and mountain views
In the heart of the coastal village of Nesna, overlooking the fjord and the islands of Tomma, Hugla, and Handnesøya, you’ll find the newly opened Hotell Sjyen.
Tjøtta Gjestegaard – Accommodation and café in historical surroundings
Stay close to nature experiences in historic surroundings at Tjøtta Guesthouse, conveniently located near the Seven Sisters mountain range, cultural trails, and historical sites, with excellent ferry connections for day trips to the islands along the Helgeland coast.
Restaurant Soprano – Wining and dining in Sandnessjøen
Restaurant Soprano offers a taste of Italy in rustic surroundings. During the summer, you can dine at an outdoor table, surrounded by trees, cobblestones and people strolling along the pleasant pedestrian street on which the cosy restaurant is situated.
Hildurs Urterarium – Culinary adventures
Hildur’s Urterarium is a vibrant and lush place where both the food and the surroundings are an integral part of the experience. The well‑tended herb garden is open to visitors and invites peaceful walks among herbs, flowers and a beautiful garden setting. Inside Restaurant Sagastuen and the old parlour, guests can enjoy the calm and cosy atmosphere, combined with flavours based on local ingredients – perfect for those seeking a break from everyday life and memorable tastes in good company.
Nordland National Park Centre – fine art and natural history
There is much to learn about the amazing wilderness and national parks of Nordland County – and the exhibitions at the Nordland National Park Centre aim to inspire this and much more. The centre offers something for the whole family, with exciting activities for young and old, such as walking the trails in the beautiful surroundings.
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.
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!
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.
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.
Støtt – Top of Helgeland
The picturesque old trading post of Støtt offers some of Helgeland’s most beautiful and unique holiday experiences. Many adventures await you here, and you can enjoy charming quarters and great dining in historic buildings steeped in the island’s ancient coastal heritage.
