Why Helgeland

Welcome to the beginning of Arctic Norway, to the edge of the horizon and the land of northern light and midnight sun. Welcome to our home.

The reasons why tourists visit Helgeland

With its stunning natural scenery, rich culture, and endless possibilities for outdoor adventure, it’s easy to see why Helgeland has become a top destination for Norwegian travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. But if you ask abroad, it still seems that we are Norways best kept travel secret. A hidden gem, ready to be discovered.

Helgeland is a coastal and mountainous paradise in the southern parts of Northern Norway. Here you can spend your time between 2,000 meters high mountains and a coast with one of the world’s most beautiful archipelagos, with a unique coastal culture that got Helgeland on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Destinations and attractions

Helgeland has large natural areas where the low population density and the moderate and scattered amount of tourists result in little impact and largely manageable wear and tear on nature. This gives visitors rare opportunities to experience pristine nature through popular activities such as hiking and mountain trekking, cycling, boat trips, and kayaking.

The food culture of Helgeland

With a wide range of producers and restaurants with a strong focus on local food based on traditional dishes with good ingredients, Helgeland also appeals to food-interested tourists. The great opportunities to follow food from farm to table, by foraging, fishing or hunting your own ingredients, provide unique opportunities for authentic food experiences. 

Snow-sure conditions in large parts of the region

Combined with opportunities for a wide range of winter activities, Helgeland will be an excellent destination for winter tourists

Active tourists will find a large selection of activities and varied terrain, allowing them to go on ski trips such as cross-country skiing, alpine skiing and ski touring in various levels of difficulty according to their own wishes and needs. Along popular short trips there are often well-trodden snowshoe tracks, and a very large network of trails for snowmobiles gives Helgeland unique opportunities for trips with snowmobiles or dog sleds. Large areas with little light pollution also create good conditions for viewing the Northern Lights and for stargazing. 

Inspirational material

Looking for more inspirational material? Explore our campaign pages for consumer‑facing stories, themes and travel inspiration.

Explore more