Thousands of unexplored islands, mountains with a wow-factor, world heritage, and a sun that never sets in summer. This, and more, await you in Helgeland.
Plan your trip to Helgeland
In the southern part of Nordland lies the picturesque Helgeland. Here, you can explore tall mountains like the Seven Sisters or check out Torghatten, a rock formation with a hole through the middle! You can also relax at a beach or go island hopping with or without a bike. Or maybe by kayak? This coast is said to be one of the best places to paddle along the Norwegian coast!
The National Scenic Route Helgelandskysten is one of the most beautiful drives in the world, while the Vega Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also go on guided glacier walks on Svartisen, Norway’s second-largest glacier, or visit Lovund to see puffins.
You’ll find national parks in this area too, which are excellent for skiing and hiking. The Rabothytta cabin, a prime example of modern architecture in the mountains, is a popular destination at Mount Okstindan, 1,200 metres above sea level.
Helgeland has midnight sun or bright nights throughout the summer, even south of the Arctic circle. On clear winter nights, the northern lights might make an appearance.
Find more inspiration and information on Helgeland’s official website.
Explore all the options below, or go directly to:
Top things to do
Don't miss these highlights.
Where to stay
Book comfy hotels or cosy cabins. Find your home away from home.
Food and drink
Taste delicious local food and book a table at a fine restaurant.
Explore Helgeland
Plan your trip to Helgeland with Entur, Norway's official travel planner.
By car
The E6 runs the length of Helgeland and is the most direct route northwards.
If you want to drive the scenic route, choose the Norwegian Scenic Route Helgelandskysten(“the Coastal Route”, Rv17) which stretches from Steinkjer to Bodø. Note that this road includes several ferry crossing.
You can also reach the Helgeland coast via Tosenvegen (Fv76), Mosjøen (Fv 78) or Mo i Rana (E12).
Plan your route, check traffic alerts, ferry information and more at the Norwegian Roads Administration website.
By boat
Several express boats and ferries take you between the destinations at the Helgeland coast.
The modern and comfortable Nordlandsekspressen NEX express boat connects many islands and coastal communities between Bodø and Sandnessjøen, and it's a great way to explore the region.
Hurtigruten or Havila calls at Rørvik, Brønnøysund, Sandnessjøen, Nesna, Ørnes, and Bodø twice a day.
Local travel
Several buses run between the larger destinations in Helgeland.
A number of ferries and express boats are ready to transport you between the destinations along the Norwegian Scenic Route Helgelandskysten (Rv17), and to and from the islands off the coast.
Check out Travel Pass Nordland and travel with express boat, ferry, and bus for a seven days without extra cost!
By train
The Nordland Line is named one of the world’s most beautiful train journeysby Lonely Planet and runs from Trondheim to Bodø. The train journey from Trondheim to Mosjøen takes about 5 hours, while the trip to Mo i Rana takes 6 hours. Trains from Bodø take 3 hours to Mo i Rana, and 4 hours to Mosjøen.
By plane
There are direct flights from Oslo to Brønnøysund and Sandnessjøen.
There are also direct flights from Trondheim and Bodø to Brønnøysund, Sandnessjøen, Mosjøen, and Mo i Rana.
Ad: Norwegian – cheap and direct flights in Norway and over 70 European destinations
By bus
There are frequent bus services between the coast of Helgeland and many inland destinations, like Mo i Rana and Mosjøen.
Travel through Northern Norway
More travel ideas
Take advantage of top offers
See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.
Brim ExplorerQuiet fjord tours on award-winning electric catamarans in Oslo, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Svalbard.
CityboxModern and affordable hotels in central locations in Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand.
NorgesbookingBook your perfect cabin stay in the fjords, mountains, and valleys of Norway.
Scandic HotelsExperience Nordic hotel hospitality at its finest at more than 90 hotels across Norway. Special offers are available.
StrawberryA different hotel company! Look out for great weekend deals at more than 100 hotels in Norway.
Thon Hotels ASFantastic breakfast included! Experience true comfort and reasonable rates at our 80 hotels in Norway.
CampcationBook a camping stay in stunning and unique locations all across Norway with Campcation.
Classic Norway HotelsWhen the hotel is the destination. Book a night to remember in one of Norway's most unique and distinctive hotels.
50 Degrees North NordicChoose between unforgettable tailormade individual trips and small, exclusive group tours of Norway.
Radisson HotelsGreat value offers and comfortable quality stays in Norway´s major cities, airports, and ski resorts.
Authentic ScandinaviaTravel curated by locals. Our tailormade tours suit every type of traveller and budget.
Booknordics.comUnique holiday packages, adventure hotels, tours, and activities.
Fjord ToursHome of Norway in a Nutshell, Norway's most popular tour. Fjords, mountains, and stunning destinations — all in one trip!
Go FjordsBook fantastic tours and experiences! We offer tours in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Lofoten, the North Cape, and more.
HurtigrutenExperience the world's most beautiful sea voyage on an unforgettable cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast.
Norrøna AdventureGet ready for expeditions and adventure holidays with Norrøna Adventure. Hiking, skiing, and biking trips.
Discover NorwayOffers a range of exciting self-guided hiking, biking, and skiing holidays in Norway. Luggage transfer included.
Norwegian HolidaysLow-price package holidays with Norwegian. Book your flight, hotel, and rental car all in one place.
StrömmaSightseeing by bus and boat in several major tourist spots and cities in Norway.
Up NorwayBespoke luxury hand-picked by local experts. We combine your preferences and our knowledge to make an unforgettable journey.
Arctic Campers ASDo you want to try van life? Explore Norway in comfort and style with our smart and cosy campervans.
Auto EuropeAlways a smooth car rental experience. Search and compare rental rates. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to pick-up.
NOR-WAY BussekspressEnjoy scenic views on comfortable bus trips to the fjords and from city to city with our express buses.
Rent-A-Wreck of Scandinavia ASThe smart and affordable car rental alternative.
SJ NordSJ NORD - the adventure starts on the train
Vy expressDiscover Norway on comfortable express buses that take you between major cities, mountains, and fjords.
Vy TrainGlide through scenery on a train between Oslo and Bergen on the Bergen Railway and explore the greater Oslo region.
My Nordic TravelChoose between DIY itineraries and pre-packaged holidays to the very best destinations in Norway.
CampanyonUnique camping in nature. Book a stay in a treehouse or glamping tent or rent a motorhome pitch.
NorwegianNorwegian offers cheap flights in Norway and direct flights from more than 70 European destinations. Book flights through our low fare calendar to your destinations.
De HistoriskeHave an unforgettable stay at one of Norway's unique, authentic historic hotels. Enjoy first-class dining experiences and a broad range of activities.
CampioNorway's biggest camping booking site. Find the best camping and motorhome pitches throughout Norway.