Helgeland Travel Guide

Discover the rich culture, natural attractions, outdoor adventures, and local cuisine in Helgeland, Norway with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Helgeland

Nestled in the heart of Nordland, in Northern Norway, Helgeland is a region known for its scenic beauty, rich culture, and outdoor adventures. With rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and breathtaking coastline, Helgeland is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The region is also steeped in history, with Viking settlements, medieval churches, and museums offering a glimpse into Norway’s past. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, and local culture of Helgeland. Let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Helgeland

From world-famous landmarks to hidden gems that only locals know, Helgeland has no shortage of exciting destinations to explore. Here are some must-visit places in Helgeland:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Petter Dass Museum: dedicated to the life and works of the 17th-century Norwegian poet and priest Petter Dass;
  • The Vega Archipelago World Heritage Site: comprising a collection of islands and islets off the coast of Helgeland, offering a glimpse into the fishing traditions and way of life of the coastal communities;
  • The Alstahaug Church and Museum: dating back to the 12th century, this church is one of the oldest in Norway and houses a museum dedicated to local history and culture;
  • The Norwegian Aquaculture Center: an interactive museum showcasing the history and present of aquaculture in Norway.

Natural Attractions of Helgeland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Seven Sisters mountain range: a collection of seven peaks that rise majestically from the sea;
  • The Kystriksveien coastal route: a scenic drive that takes you through picturesque fishing villages, rugged coastline, and stunning fjords;
  • The Svartisen glacier: the second-largest glacier in Norway, offering opportunities for hiking and glacier walks;
  • The Helgeland coast: known for its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and rugged islands, Helgeland coast is also an excellent place for sea kayaking, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Helgeland

Helgeland is a paradise for hikers and bikers. Here are some recommended routes:

  • The Helgeland Coast Trail: a 400-kilometer trail that takes you along the coastline of Helgeland, passing through fishing villages, sandy beaches, and rocky islands;
  • The Torghatten Trail: a 3.5-kilometer hike that takes you to the top of Torghatten mountain, famous for its distinctive hole in the middle of the summit;
  • The Melfjellet Trail: a 700-meter ascent that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and sea.

Best Things to Do in Helgeland: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Helgeland offers plenty of other outdoor activities and tours. Here are some recommendations:

  • Sea kayaking: explore the many small islands, inlets, and fjords of Helgeland on a guided sea kayaking tour;
  • Fishing tours: Helgeland is known for its rich fishing traditions, and you can join a guided fishing tour to catch some of the best seafood the region has to offer;
  • Rafting: experience the thrill of white-water rafting in Helgeland’s rivers;
  • Historical tours: join a guided tour of the Viking or medieval historical sites in Helgeland to learn more about Norway’s past.

Week-Long Itinerary for Helgeland

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Helgeland:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the coastal town of Brønnøysund and climb Torghatten mountain
Day 2 Visit the Vega Archipelago World Heritage Site and learn about the traditional fishing way of life
Day 3 Hike the Melfjellet Trail and enjoy the panoramic views
Day 4 Take a sea kayaking tour and explore the many small islands and fjords
Day 5 Visit the Petter Dass Museum and learn about the life and works of the famous poet and priest
Day 6 Take a historical tour of the Viking sites in Helgeland
Day 7 Go on a fishing tour and catch some of the region’s finest seafood

Food and Drink Scene of Helgeland

Helgeland is known for its rich culinary traditions, with seafood being a prominent feature of the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Røkt ørret: smoked trout, a local delicacy;
  • Sjømat: seafood, including shrimp, lobster, and salmon, caught fresh from the waters around Helgeland;
  • Lutefisk: a traditional Norwegian dish consisting of fish that has been dried and cured in lye.

Local Beverages

  • Aquavit: a Norwegian spirit made from potatoes and flavored with spices such as caraway and dill;
  • Mack beer: a local beer brewed in Northern Norway, loved by locals and visitors alike.

Where to Stay in Helgeland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Helgeland offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Scandic Havet Hotel: a modern hotel with stunning sea views, located in the heart of Sandnessjøen;
  • Helgeland Bed & Breakfast: a cozy guesthouse located in the charming coastal town of Brønnøysund;
  • Kvarøy Sjøhus: a rustic yet charming eco-lodge located on an island in the middle of a coastal fjord.

What to Buy in Helgeland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring back from Helgeland include:

  • Hand-knitted woolens: Helgeland is known for its cozy woolen sweaters, hats, and mittens, perfect for keeping warm during the chilly Nordic winters;
  • Handmade knives: Helgeland has a long tradition of knife-making, and you can find some of the finest handmade knives in Norway here;
  • Aquavit: bring back a bottle of Norwegian aquavit, an excellent spirit to enjoy on cold Scandinavian nights.

Local Culture and Customs of Helgeland

Norwegians in Helgeland are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors. Some of the local customs and cultural practices to be aware of include:

  • Removing shoes before entering homes and other indoor spaces;
  • Tipping in restaurants is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill is appreciated;
  • Queuing in an orderly fashion is important, and cutting in line is frowned upon.

Best Time to Visit Helgeland

The best time to visit Helgeland is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is milder, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, the region also has a unique charm during the winter months when the snow-covered landscape and Northern Lights create a magical atmosphere.

Do’s and Don’ts of Helgeland

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Helgeland:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions;
  • Embrace the outdoor lifestyle and try to experience as much of the natural beauty as possible;
  • Learn some basic Norwegian phrases to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Leave your trash behind in nature;
  • Ignore the dress code for churches and other religious sites;
  • Be too loud or disrespectful of others in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Helgeland is generally a safe and healthy destination, with high standards of healthcare and well-maintained roads and trails. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in Helgeland:

Safety in Helgeland

  • Always follow the local safety regulations for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing;
  • Be aware of wildlife, including reindeer, moose, and bears;
  • Bring appropriate clothing and gear for the weather conditions.

Health in Helgeland

  • The tap water in Helgeland is safe to drink;
  • Adequate medical facilities are available in the larger towns, but it’s a good idea to bring necessary prescription medications with you;
  • Norwegian healthcare is of high quality, but it can be expensive for visitors, so make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Helgeland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Helgeland is easily accessible by air, road, and sea. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Helgeland:

  • Sandnessjøen Airport: the primary airport that serves Helgeland;
  • Mo i Rana Airport: a larger airport located about 120 kilometers north of Helgeland.

Bus Stations Near Helgeland:

  • Nettbuss is the primary bus company that serves Helgeland.

Other Options:

  • Hurtigruten: the Norwegian coastal ferry that stops in several towns along the coast of Helgeland;
  • Car rental: renting a car is a convenient way to explore the region at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Helgeland

Getting around in Helgeland is relatively easy, thanks to a well-developed network of roads, trails, and waterways. Here are some options for transportation in Helgeland:

  • Bus: Nettbuss operates services between most major towns in Helgeland;
  • Ferry: local ferries connect the many islands and islets in the region;
  • Car rental: renting a car is a convenient way to explore the region at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Helgeland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Helgeland is located in the heart of Northern Norway, making it an excellent base for exploring the wider region. Some nearby destinations and excursions to consider include:

  • The Lofoten Islands: a stunning collection of islands located about 400 kilometers west of Helgeland, famous for their dramatic mountains, sandy beaches, and fishing villages;
  • Tromsø: the vibrant city of Tromsø is located about 350 kilometers north of Helgeland, and is known for its lively nightlife, museums, and outdoor activities;
  • The Arctic Circle: located about 100 kilometers north of Helgeland, the Arctic Circle is a must-visit destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

Conclusion

Helgeland is a destination that has something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to culture vultures. Whether you’re looking to hike through rugged mountains, explore traditional fishing villages, or learn more about Viking history, Helgeland is a place that won’t disappoint. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has given you a taste of what Helgeland has to offer and has inspired you to plan your own adventure in this beautiful region of Northern Norway.

Beach on Vega island Beach on Vega island Træna landmark summits. Træna landmark summits. Engabreen branch of Svartisen plateau glacier almost reach the ocean. Engabreen branch of Svartisen plateau glacier almost reach the ocean. Train on Saltfjellet mountain pass between Mo i Rana and Bodø. Train on Saltfjellet mountain pass between Mo i Rana and Bodø. Sandnessjøen town beneath the Seven Sisters mountain ridge. Sandnessjøen town beneath the Seven Sisters mountain ridge. Road 17 ''Helgeland coast road'' at Aldersundet. Road 17 ''Helgeland coast road'' at Aldersundet. Torghatten summit with hole is a landmark on the Helgeland coast. Torghatten summit with hole is a landmark on the Helgeland coast. Grønligrotta (Grønli limestone cave) Grønligrotta (Grønli limestone cave) Road 17 near Glomfjord Road 17 near Glomfjord Okstindane range (near the border) are the highest mountains in Northern Norway. Okstindane range (near the border) are the highest mountains in Northern Norway. Laksforsen in Vefsna river. Laksforsen in Vefsna river. Helgeland coast with islands and skerries far in the ocean, typical ''strandflat'' landscape with residual mountains forming landmarks. Helgeland coast with islands and skerries far in the ocean, typical ''strandflat'' landscape with residual mountains forming landmarks.