Experience beautiful Helgeland

Have you ever dreamed of a place where nature remains at the center? Then Helgeland might be just what you're looking for. Imagine days filled with fresh air, majestic mountains plunging into the sea, and a coastline that seems endless. Here, you’ll find authentic experiences—whether you want to go kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoy the silence. Helgeland is a part of Norway you may not have explored yet, but one that could quickly become a favorite.

Do you need a hotel for your stay in Helgeland? You can easily find the best hotels in Helgeland through our partner.

When you make the trip to Helgeland, a world of unforgettable nature experiences awaits. Hop on a bike and explore the stunning Helgeland coast on two wheels, with the sea breeze in your hair and countless islands as your backdrop. For those who dare to explore underground mysteries, Mo i Rana offers guided cave tours. And if you're looking to witness a natural phenomenon unlike anything else, a visit to Torghatten—with its distinctive hole straight through the mountain—is a must.

If you're more of a mountain goat, you’ll be drawn to hikes up the Seven Sisters mountain range or the spectacular Helgeland Stairs. Whatever you choose, Helgeland is ready to give you memories that will last a lifetime.

To make the most of your time, we recommend renting a car through our partner. This way, you can drive from place to place and explore everything Helgeland has to offer. If you prefer public transport, you can check the schedule at Reis Nordland.

1. Visit the Legendary Torghatten

Just outside Brønnøysund, you’ll find one of Norway’s most iconic landmarks: Torghatten. This mountain is famous for its distinctive hole right through the middle. According to legend, the troll Hestmannen wanted to capture the beautiful troll woman Lekamøya. But the sun was about to rise, and as we know, trolls turn into mountains in sunlight. Hestmannen threw an arrow at Lekamøya, while another troll, Skarsfjellgubben, threw his hat to protect her. When the sun rose, Hestmannen’s arrow pierced through Skarsfjellgubben’s hat. As sunlight hit the hat and the trolls, the legendary mountain Torghatten was formed.

A hike up to the hole is an experience we highly recommend when visiting the area. Remember to dress for the weather, as conditions can change quickly in Helgeland. Torghatten is more than just a geological curiosity—it’s also a place full of history and legend.

2. Cycling along the Helgeland Coast

A cycling tour along the Helgeland coast is an extraordinary experience. The unique coastline, with countless islands and bridges, makes the area perfect for cycling. You can ride at your own pace, take ferries between islands, and discover hidden gems along the way.

We’ve made it extra easy with our "Fly & Bike" concept. Here, you can pick up a rental bike directly at the airports in Brønnøysund and Sandnessjøen. This way, you can start your cycling adventure immediately after landing. It gives you the freedom to explore the diverse landscape. Read more about cycling tours along the Helgeland coast in this article.

3. The Helgeland Stairs in Mosjøen

Do you enjoy hikes that challenge you a bit and reward you with stunning views? Then you should visit Mosjøen and experience the Helgeland Stairs. This is a Sherpa stairway that winds its way up the mountainside by Øyfjellet, just outside the town center. Built by Sherpas from Nepal, the stairs take you to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the town, Vefsnfjorden, and the surrounding mountains.

It’s a great workout, and the sense of accomplishment at the summit is unbeatable. The Helgeland Stairs offer an experience that combines physical activity with incredible natural beauty, perfect for those who love to stretch their legs.

4. Explore the Beautiful Archipelago of the Vega Islands

A visit to the Vega Islands is like stepping into another world. This unique archipelago, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its traditional eider duck farming, consists of thousands of islands, islets, and skerries. People have lived in harmony with nature here for over a thousand years.

The island group offers activities such as coastal paddling or hiking with panoramic views of the open sea. You can also cycle along idyllic roads, explore small fishing villages, or take a boat trip to experience the rich birdlife up close. The Vega Islands are a place where you can feel the rich cultural history while enjoying nature experiences at a peaceful pace.

5. Cave Exploring with the Family

Looking for a unique family experience? Around Mo i Rana, you’ll find a network of limestone caves, perfect for an outing. Here, you’ll travel hundreds of thousands of years back in time, surrounded by incredible formations carved out by water and ice.

To get the most out of the trip and ensure a safe experience, we recommend using a professional guide service. Dress warmly, as it can be chilly inside the caves, and get ready for an adventure the whole family will talk about long afterward.

6. Mountain Hike to The Seven Sisters

Are you ready for a real mountain challenge? In Sandnessjøen, you’ll find the majestic mountain range known as The Seven Sisters. These seven peaks stretch over 26 kilometers, with the highest reaching up to 1,072 meters above sea level. You can choose to climb just one peak, or if you’re feeling extra fit, tackle all seven in a single trip. No matter which peak you choose, an unforgettable experience with panoramic views of Helgeland’s unique coastal landscape awaits.

7. Paddler’s Paradise

With its thousands of islands, islets, and skerries, the Helgeland coast is a paradise for paddlers. The conditions are perfect for peaceful trips in sheltered waters or more challenging adventures on the open sea. Crystal-clear water, white sandy beaches inviting you to stop ashore, coves, bays, and abundant wildlife. The Helgeland coast offers paddle experiences like no other.

You can read more about active experiences in Helgeland in our article.