Hälsingland – a world of cultural heritage and untouched nature

The vast forests of Hälsingland, located in northeast Sweden, create a breathtaking sense of space. But there’s more to this region than endless woodlands – its diverse landscapes include mountain ranges, valleys, and a stunning archipelago. Cultivated since the Iron Age, Hälsingland’s farmers became known for their ingenuity, making a living through cattle breeding, forestry, and linen manufacturing. With their accumulated wealth, they built impressive farmhouses, decorating grand rooms with elaborate wall art. These timber estates, collectively known as ‘Hälsingegårdar’ (the Decorated Farmhouses of Hälsingland), were granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 2012.

The province’s main towns and cities include Hudiksvall and Söderhamn on the coast, as well as Bollnäs in the south and Järvsö in the north. Each of these hubs offers a mix of accommodations and sustainable dining experiences, providing a well-rounded taste of Hälsingland.

Explore Hälsingland’s unique cultural heritage

The Decorated Farmhouses of Hälsingland are among the region’s key attractions. There are thousands of well-preserved Hälsingegårdar scattered across the province, with around fifty open to visitors. Here are three well-worth a visit:

• Erik-Anders (Asta, near Söderhamn): A beautifully preserved farmhouse from the 1820s, featuring artwork by the Knutes family. Includes a visitor centre, café, shop, and a 1920s-style garden. Overnight stays available.
• Gästgivars (Vallsta, near Bollnäs): A UNESCO-listed farmhouse known for its exquisite stencilled interiors by 19th-century artist Jonas Wallström. Offers guided tours, a craft shop, and a restaurant serving Swedish classics.
• Stenegård (Järvsö): A 19th-century farm estate with gardens, playgrounds, craft shops, and charming eateries, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.

Hälsingland is also known for its historic linen production. Växbo Lin, established in 1989, preserves this craft in the village of Växbo near Bollnäs. Visitors can explore the factory store and purchase high-quality linen products such as tablecloths, curtains, and slippers.

For those who love second-hand shopping, Hälsingland is a true treasure trove of flea markets, or ‘loppis’ as they are known in Swedish. Popular spots include Bättre Begagnat in Hudiksvall and Hansa Boa Antik in Järvsö, but roadside signs often lead to hidden gems.

Explore Hälsingland’s nature and outdoor adventures

The deep forests of Hälsingland provide an ideal habitat for wildlife, including moose, lynx and wolf. The region is particularly rich in bears, though these shy creatures usually remain out of sight. To observe them in their natural habitat, join a guided wildlife safari with Wildlife Sweden, where you can watch these magnificent animals from a floating photo hide. For a broader look at Nordic wildlife, Vildriket in Järvsö is home to lynx, bears, wolves, wolverines, arctic foxes, and musk oxen, which can be spotted while walking along a 3-kilometre wooden footbridge.

Hälsingland’s varied terrain offers a wealth of outdoor activities. Orbaden, located on the Ljusnan River, is famous for its white sandy beaches and is often referred to as “Hälsingland’s Riviera.” A wellness destination since the early 20th century, Orbaden Spa & Resort continues this tradition, offering swimming, beach jogging, and water activities such as fishing.

The region is a paradise for hiking and biking, with scenic trails weaving through its breathtaking landscapes. Near Hölick Havsresort & Spa – on the southern tip of a peninsula extending from Hudiksvall into the Gulf of Bothnia – you’ll find excellent hiking routes through untouched terrain. Avholmsberget mountain, further inland, provides spectacular views across the Dellensjöarna lakes and is surrounded by excellent hiking trails. Don’t miss Hamra National Park, which offers year-round hiking and dog sledging in winter.

To explore Hälsingland’s archipelago, visit Skärså fishing village outside Söderhamn. Take a waterside stroll or follow one of the area’s beautiful hiking paths. Continue your coastal adventure with a visit to the idyllic island of Rönnskär.

During winter, Hälsingland is perfect for skiing, with Järvsöbacken ski resort offering slopes for the whole family.

Fill your plate with the flavours of Hälsingland

Hälsingland’s culinary scene, like much of Sweden, places increasing focus on sustainability. Many of the province’s restaurants source their ingredients locally and seasonally. Växbo Krog and Lilla k’s Trädgårdskök in Bollnäs are excellent examples, offering dishes inspired by both Swedish and international cuisine, often featuring produce from their own gardens.

Design lovers will appreciate Månses Design in Stugsund outside Söderhamn, where you can enjoy high-quality food served on elegant crockery, which is also available for purchase. Meanwhile, Järvsö Crêperie serves delicious crepes with sweet and savoury fillings made from locally sourced ingredients.

For beverages, try Stormare Bryggeri, a microbrewery co-founded by acclaimed actor Peter Stormare that focuses on handcrafted beer and spirits, or Tevsjö Destilleri, which specialises in traditional Swedish 'brännvin' made with locally grown ingredients.

Hälsingland is a destination that blends rich cultural heritage, spectacular nature, and exciting outdoor activities. Whether you're here for a relaxing retreat or an action-packed adventure, this Swedish gem has something to offer year-round.