The Helgeland Coast
A ‘highlight reel’ of natural and cultural treasures along the north Norwegian coastline
The Helgeland coast contains thousands of islands, characteristically steep mountains said to have been created by trolls in a boisterous legend, bird colonies, and the opportunity to paddle through a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Helgeland coast, which also crosses the Arctic Circle, is often singled out as one of the most enjoyable parts of the Hurtigruten sailing route.
Whether your voyage takes place during the endless summer days or in winter darkness with the Northern Lights, you will never forget your trip through this region, once home to Norway's famous 17th century poet-priest Petter Dass. This region has many highlights:
- The Vega Islands with their 6,500 islands, islets and skerries, and a special bird that produces prized down feathers, have been recognized in UNESCO’s World Heritage Site List since 2004.
- The Seven Sisters: Seven mountaintops alongside each other. They are so beautiful that a local legend claims that they are female trolls turned to stone.
- Torghatten, with its 98-feet-high, 82-feet-wide and 525-feet-deep hole right through the mountainside.
- The Arctic Circle, the southernmost point at which the Midnight Sun shines 24 hours a day.
The Helgeland Coast stretches from Rørvik up to Ørnes. Hurtigruten calls in at Brønnøysund, Sandnessjøen, and Nesna, and offers a number of excursions that bring you closer to the Norwegian people, nature, and culture.
