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Uplifting landscape
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OFFICIAL AND PROUD SUPPLIERS OF THE BEST OF THE HIGH COAST EVERY YEAR SINCE 2009
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EDITION
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T H E B E S T P L AC E S TO S H A R E
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INTRODUCING “THE SWEDE”
SWIRLING RAPIDS A D V E N T U R E A N D R E L A X AT I O N
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MAGASIN HÖGA KUSTEN IS ONE OF SWEDEN’S
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Magasin Höga Kusten is produced by Magasin Höga Kusten Publishing AB, which is owned in its entirety by companies based in the region Sundstroem ImageWorks, Didot Reklambyrå, Nordströmbild, Grafisk Kompetens i Norr och TMPH Ö-vik AB. Responsibility cannot be taken for material that has not been specifically requested. Opinions presented by individual writers are not necessarily shared by the editorial team. Magasin Höga Kusten is printed by Forssa Print. Magasin Höga Kusten is produced using typeface from Hoefler&Co.
APPOINTED AS SWEDEN’S most
beautiful natural region. FOR 10,000
T
YEARS, THE HIGH COAST HAS BEEN RISING OUT OF THE SEA.
he dramatic landscape is constantly changing and boasts some of Sweden’s most prominent landmarks. The High Coast is mountain tops reaching for the sky and deep, deep valleys, impressive cliffs and meandering forest trails. It is thundering seas and peaceful rivers. The nature here is untouched, unique and majestic. Let yourself lose track of time in nature reserves and the national park. Be amazed by the exciting caves, panoramic views, magical kayaking routes, beaches and exciting flora and fauna. Choose between countless hiking trails, or find a path where no one else has ever been. Enjoy the aromas and the colours. Welcome to the High Coast. To the World Heritage Site. It is yours.
IN THE MAGAZINE
8 12 23 30 45 53
/ 2020
SELECTED N A T U R E A N D A D V E N T U R E S HÖGA KUSTEN - WHY? T H E W O R L D H E R I T A G E S I T E , T H E L A N D S C A P E , OUR FAVOURITE FLAVOURS C U L I N A R Y D E L I G H T S MODERN HIKERS A N E L D O R A D O F O R A L L K I N D S O F H I K E R S INSTAMOMENTS G I V E Y O U R I N S T A A C C O U N T A L I F T THE GOLDEN SEASON W E D O N ’ T O N L Y H U N T M O O S E
THE PLACE
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Welcome to the High Coast. You can find information throughout the entire region at the many InfoPoints and service points, and of course you can read about the area here in Magasin Höga Kusten as well. The High Coast Tourist Centre can be found by the bridge Högakustenbron. It is open all summer from end of May all the way through to September. Online information is available around the clock. Check out our website for all the information you need on different places to visit, accommodation options, fun activities and much, much more.
hogakusten.com +46 (0)771-26 50 00
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Hallstaberget Sollefteå Camping
SOLLEFTEÅ
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hkship.se mfulvon.se trafikverket.se
YO U R FRIEND
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Nämforsen
orntaxi.se taxiharnosand.se taxikramfors.se taxisolleftea.se
amapola.nu airleap.se flygbra.se
sj.se norrtag.se
ybuss.se bybergnordin.se dintur.se
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our carefully selected ”Höga Kusten vän” - High Coast Friends - for more information on your particular area of interest, be it hiking, biking, swimming, hunting or skiing. You can find their details throughout the magazine and by using the QR code on the page detailing what you are interested in.
YO U R P E R S O N A L H O L I DAY P L A N N E R Planning your holiday can be hard sometimes. Our Tourist Information can help you plan your ideal trip to the High Coast. Don´t hesitate to contact us to get your own High Coast Itineraries. Find out more at >>hogakusten.com
OER
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Naturkompaniet Paradiset
The High Coast is a destination spread over a large area, but we are here to help you plan your visit. Take a look at this map to see how long it will take you to get to the most popular destinations from the bridge Höga Kustenbron. All times are in hours.
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Skeppsmaln
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Skuleskogens nationalpark
KRAMFORS
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Technichus Murberget
SELECTED
/ NATURE
A WILD DEEP FOREST
3 of many…
GUIDE
...nature reserves, and reasons to experience the High Coast’s amazing viewpoints. Don’t miss:
Granvågsniporna From the top of the sandbank the views looking out over the river and its impressive banks are breathtaking – this is one of the Ådalen valley’s most beautiful sections.
Balesudden The distinctive red rocks and the magical crystal clear waters of Lake Balestjärn are well-known symbols of the High Coast. N AT U R E
The forests in the High Coast are large and substantial. Let yourself be surrounded by theincredible calm of a deep, primeval forest. When inland, you’ll come across the Urskogsleden Trail, which is almost 50 km long and will take you over mountains and rivers and through valleys. By the coast you’ll find Skuleskogen National Park, which is nothing short of a jewel in Mother Nature’s crown. Thirty kilometres of hiking trails will take you through the World Heritage Site’s ancient forests and to the amazing canyon Slåttdalsskrevan. This close to the coastline, you will see clear evidence of the region’s dramatic land uplift.
Högklinten The mountain with the world’s highest cobble field, 260 metres above sea level, with exceptional views over both Örnsköldsvik and Härnösand.
Breaking records
T R AV E L
8
The latest numbers are in and they show that the High Coast had a total of 636,497 visitor nights last year, slashing the previous record by 22%. This has led to the High Coast being named “Sweden’s fastest growing destination” with the explanation: ‘A strong strategic cooperation between the private and public sectors, combined with the impact of successful media campaigns, has attracted more visitors to the High Coast in 2019 than ever before.’ Our editorial staff particularly liked the ‘impact of successful media campaigns’ being mentioned. Congratulations to all of us here in the High Coast region. >>hogakusten.com
YOUR GATE TO THE HIGH COAST Your journey to the High Coast of Sweden begins at Örnsköldsvik Airport. Welcome to the World Heritage, a dramatic landscape with the world’s highest coastline. Here you will experience everything from spectacular views, magnificent hikes, fishing waters to a wide range of restaurants and accommodations. In the High Coast, you have time to do nothing and everything. At the same time. The High Coast is available all year round, just an hour’s flight from Stockholm.
READ MORE AT OER.SE flygbra.se | airleap.se
SELECTED
/ ADVENTURE
TRAINING
Our best run
FROM A SEAT OF A KAYAK
The High Coast is home to Sweden’s best and most beautiful trail running terrain. Here are three musts to discover in your running shoes. Trail runner Emelie Forsberg began her journey to becoming the world star she is today by running on the trails around Hernön. That says it all. Unique and varied trail running. Skuleskogen National Park in the World Heritage Site has amazingly varied terrain. Beaches and coves, forest streams and coastal mountains several hundred metres high with sweeping views out to sea. Kålhuvudet Nature Reserve in the northern part of the High Coast region has fantastic trails winding through the ancient forests, with plenty of logs and boulders for you to jump over.
The High Coast is mountains, forests and the sea. The best way to experience the sea is from the seat of a kayak. Gliding across the sea’s surface while trailing your hands in the water is a relaxing and close to euphoric experience. Just you and the sea. Feeling tiny in the vastness of it. The High Coast is said to be the most beautiful, perhaps the most wild, section to paddle along the entire northern Swedish coast. Countless high mountains, the archipelago, amazing views and so you don’t miss the best bays and islands – treat yourselves to a guide to show you around. We have a list of expert guides on >>hogakusten.com
And the biggest is…
OUTDOOR LIFE
Hiking boots, shoes, jackets, trousers, shirts, sleeping bags, tents, kayaks and fishing gear. In Fjällräven’s original factory you will now find Sweden’s largest outdoor store. Naturkompaniet has become one of the High Coast’s most popular destinations with approximately 100,000 people visiting the outlet every summer. >>naturkompaniet.se
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Anders Hägglund
N AT U R E
Born in the High Coast, Connecting and Protecting the World Clavister is a cybersecurity company based in the town of Örnsköldsvik, Sweden, in the Unesco recognised High Coast. We have a passion for innovation, strong security and above all, that Security By Sweden is what all companies throughout the world need to be safe from cyber harm. Using our Aurora Security Framework, a portfolio of great products that work synergistically together, we’re here to protect your business continuity with strong Swedish innovation.
Great team that innovates
Great company to work for
Great cybersecurity solutions to protect your business
w w w.cl avister.com
DISCOVER
/ Hร GA KUSTEN
Uplifting landscape phOTO
Peder Sundstrรถm
wo r d s
Steven Ekholm
DON´T MISS
Kalottberg is a mountain with a treetopped peak and barren sides covered in cobble fields. The tops of these mountains have always been above sea level – when the inland ice fields melted, their peaks were islands sticking up out of the sea. Waves battered the mountains’ slopes as they slowly rose higher, washing away all their fertile soils, which is why they are barren today everywhere except for their tops. The most famous example is Skuleberget.
A
World Heritage Site isn’t created overnight. For 10,000 years it has been rising steadily up out of the sea, from where the weight of the inland ice had pressed it deep down under the waves. Skerries became islets, became islands, became mountains, became high mountains. In the beginning, the land lift was fast but it has slowed down over the millennia. Today, the rate of rebound is only 0.8 cm per year – but it’s still the fastest in the world! For a very long time, the area whose coast was becoming increasingly steep had no name. It wasn’t until the late 1800s that geologists starting taking an interest in the unique conditions caused by the land uplift. But the steep coastal stretch between the mouth of the Ångermanälven river in the south and Skagsudde Lighthouse in the north was simply referred to as the Steep Ångermanland Coast for the larger part of the 20th century. Because that is what it was. Steep. And in Ångermanland. But then things started moving fast. The name Höga Kusten – the High Coast – was coined in the early 1970s. Skuleskogen became a national park in 1984 and in 2000 the High Coast was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, it is the only purely natural World Heritage Site in Sweden. T H E L A N D U P L I F T , the most dramatic in the world, totals close to 300 metres
Cobble fields are large areas of stones that have been rounded by erosion due to being battered by waves or fast-flowing water. They can be found long distances from the coast. As land uplift changed the coastline, the stones remained, providing us with evidence of where the coastline once was.
Tunnel caves are formed when stones and gravel are set into motion by waves, leading to cracks and other weak points in the rocky coastline being eroded away leaving tunnel-like caves. Due to land uplift, these caves are now found far above sea level and away from the coast. Can only be found in Scandinavia and half of Sweden’s tunnel caves are in the High Coast region. The unique caves in the Smitingen area are among Sweden’s most fascinating.
since the last ice age. The official World Heritage Site includes the coastal landscape between the bridge Högakustenbron in the south and Örnsköldsvik in the north, but the land uplift’s fantastic and often strange effects on the landscape can be seen over a much larger area. The High Coast region’s four municipalities – Örnsköldsvik, Kramfors, Sollefteå and Härnösand – offer everything from coastal hiking, a national park, unique tunnel caves, till-capped mountains and the world’s highest cobble field, to Sweden’s highest island, Sweden’s second highest lighthouse, dramatically high sandbanks along the river Ångermanälven, magical kayaking in the archipelago and both north-facing and south-facing mountains with plants that really shouldn’t be there. Just to mention a few things. For those interested in outdoor life, the High Coast is a huge playground with countless exciting adventures and outings you can go on. In the heart of the area is the impressive Skuleberget, with the world’s highest coastline at 286 metres above sea level. At the foot of the mountain under its steep eastern face is the Naturum Visitor Centre where you can learn all about the effects of the land uplift and the area’s flora and fauna. You can also get tips and ideas about the World Heritage Site’s where, when and how plus numerous other things you shouldn’t miss when visiting the High Coast. //
A World Heritage Site isn’t created over night
MAGASIN HÖGA KUSTEN 2020
13
FACTS ABOUT
/ HÖGA KUSTEN
Did you know this about Höga Kusten?
171
636 497
When the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth published the official accommodation statistics, it was good news for the High Coast as another record had been broken. The destination showed a total of 636 497 visitor nights, which is a new all time high. Summer tourism was up for the ninth year in a row. “The High Coast is increasing by 18% annually while the national average is 5% - this just goes to show how attractive the High Coast has become,” says Mia Karlsson, CEO for High Coast Destination Ltd.
1 513 250
Via Ferratas mountain climbing guests climbed a total of 1,513,250 vertical metres in the 2019 season. This is equivalent to 171 ascents of Mt Everest.
500
The High Coast’s characteristic nature was formed by world-unique land uplift. The area is currently 800 metres higher than it was during the most recent ice age. Traces of this incredibly rapid uplift can be seen in many locations throughout the region. This is the distance in kilometres you will walk if you complete...
8 0 0
236
117,2
Salmon were caught and weighed in
Nipstadsfisket in the Ångermanälven River in Sollefteå during the 2019 season.
182
Mjältön, Sweden’s highest island, has its
highest peak 236 metres above sea level. It can be found in the heart of the Archipelago.
The infamous yet loved-by-many Baltic fermented herring came about by accident during a time of salt shortages in the 1500s...
956 409
...when people couldn’t preserve their herring using traditional methods. Today, almost one million cans are produced annually.
...the entire World Heritage Trail that takes you around the Nordingrå peninsular.
634 14
With an average output of 500 cubic metres of water per second at its mouth, the Ångermanälven River is one of Sweden’s highestvolume rivers. The river stretches through the entire High Coast region with its source far, far inland.
194
Things are mountainous under the sea as well – just east of the island of Ulvön is a trench that is all of 194 metres deep.
Högakustenbron, The bridge with a total length of 1,867
metres, was opened in December 1997. The suspension bridge is one of Sweden’s highest constructions – it is suspended all of 182 metres above the river below it…
...and almost half a million visitors visit the hotel by the bridge annually.
450 000
HOME OF SWEDISH GIN HOME OF SWEDISH GIN
DISTILLERY TOURS: Schedule at hernogin.com/events. DISTILLERY TOURS: Schedule at hernogin.com/events.
OPEN HOUSE: Hernö Gin, Dala, June 28. OPEN HOUSE: Hernö Gin, Dala, June 28.
TASTINGS: Schedule at hernogin.com/events TASTINGS: Schedule at hernogin.com/events
RESTAURANT: Café, lunch, cocktails. RESTAURANT: Café, lunch, cocktails.
Hernö Gin distillery is opening up for new experiences this summer. 1 JULY TO 16 AUGUST, WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY, 11 AM TO 3 PM. 1 JULY TO 16 AUGUST, WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY, 11 AM TO 3 PM.
For the first time in history Hernö Gin is now inviting you to visit the distillery during the summer. For the first time in history Hernö Gin is now inviting you to visit the distillery during the summer. Learn the story of Hernö Gin, multiple awarded world’s best gin, taking a guided tour at the distillery. Learn the story of Hernö Gin, multiple awarded world’s best gin, taking a guided tour at the distillery. Experience our products attending a gin tasting. Or just relax in our new restaurant enjoying a Swedish Fika, Experience our products attending a gin tasting. Or just relax in our new restaurant enjoying a Swedish Fika, a lunch or a gin cocktail. Summer season will start with our traditional open house on June 28. Welcome. a lunch or a gin cocktail. Summer season will start with our traditional open house on June 28. Welcome. MORE INFORMATION AND SCHEDULES AT HERNOGIN.COM/EVENTS MORE INFORMATION AND SCHEDULES AT HERNOGIN.COM/EVENTS
M U LT I P L E AWA R D E D W O R L D ’ S B E S T G I N . M O S T AWA R D E D G I N I N E U R O P E 2 0 1 3 –2 0 1 9 . M U LT I P L E AWA R D E D W O R L D ’ S B E S T G I N . M O S T AWA R D E D G I N I N E U R O P E 2 0 1 3 –2 0 1 9 . @HERNOGIN, #HERNOGIN @HERNOGIN, #HERNOGIN
FA C E B O O K . C O M / H E R N O G I N FA C E B O O K . C O M / H E R N O G I N
V I S I T@ H E R N O G I N . C O M V I S I T@ H E R N O G I N . C O M
HERNOGIN.COM HERNOGIN.COM
HERNOGIN.COM/EVENTS HERNOGIN.COM/EVENTS
ÖRNSKÖLDSVIK
SIDENSJÖ BRYNGE B J Ä S TA KÖ P M A N H O L M E N NÄSKE T RYS U N DA
Artcaching NOR D I N G R Å
Arch was unveiled in 2002 and consists of four massive sculptures made from some of the longest granite slabs quarried in Sweden. They make for an incredible sight from a distance and are even more spectacular close up. Discover these on the E4 highway in Bjästa. 63.2104, 18.4938 Näskom (Iréne Westman), Näske Båthamn. 63.1533, 18.5133 Våg (Dag A Birkeland) Kajen i Köpmanholmen. 63.1699, 18.5938 Kalejdoskop (Mikael Richter) Industriområdet i Köpmanholmen. 63.1713, 18.5831 Lijiesbåaloe (Helena Byström), Herrgårdsparken i Köpmanholmen. 63.1786, 18.5567 Plommonet (Hans Hedberg), Örtagården i Köpmanholmen. 63.1721, 18.5679 Tjurplankan (Arne Falang), Brynge kulturområde. 63.2591, 18.3330 Himmelsförsök och hund (Mats Caldeborg), Vid Sidensjö Sparbank. 63.3007, 18.2800 Vågrörelser (Mats Olofgörs), Trysunda. 63.1377, 18.7912
A GENEROUS DONATION BECAME A FANTASTIC ART TREASURE – the High Coast Art Valley. A VALLEY THAT OFFERS BOTH STUNNING NATURE AND AMAZING ART. was a regional growth project back in 2013/2014. But the idea has its origins many years earlier with Jonas Nätterlund playing a central role. He was born in the village of Sidensjö in the 1920s but lived his entire adult life in Stockholm. Unknown to anyone, he was a skilful investor and when he died in 1995, he left SEK 24 million to the Nätra/Sidensjö region to purchase public artworks. This generous donation resulted in the Nätterlund Foundation being founded, and 25 vastly different pieces of art were purchased and placed along the valley. The project High Coast Art Valley aimed to connect these pieces together and develop the concept further. The valley stretches from the Ulvö islands in the archipelago to the Nätraälven Valley and the pieces of art make for a fascinating cultural journey. Some are completely freestanding, others are part of schools, roads or cultural areas. The Art Valley’s hub is the art and nature park Herrgårdsparken in Köpmanholmen, a popular place to visit. This is where untouched nature and parklands meet and you will see both wildlife and evidence of the industrial era. A walk around the whole park takes about an hour and along the way you will find both benches for a rest and barbeque areas. // T H E H I G H C O A S T A R T VA L L E Y
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Leif Wikberg
S KU LE S KO GE NS NAT IO NAL PARK
DISCOVER
/ FLAVOURS
Our favourite s r ou v a l f HÖ
A
KU S T E N
N VÄ
G
A visit to the High Coast can be an unforgettable journey of culinary delights and delicious food experiences. You can even go on an organised culinary tour of dedicated local producers that will allow all your senses to enjoy the region.
DISCOVER
/ FLAVOURS BRÖD
S KO G S - H I L DA S
At the award-winning Skogs-Hilda stone oven bakery & café in Ullånger, the traditional Northern Dutch bread is preserved, baked on barley flour and baked in wood-burning oven. In addition to the thin bread, baked cookies, crispbread, sourdough bread, wheat bread and cookies are also baked here. To obtain the highest quality, only organic raw materials are used in the bread.
PRALINER
J E LT S J E S C H O K L A D P R A L I N E R
In Docksta you will find Jeltsje’s chocolate chocolates that are handmade and made with care, love and a lot of passion. The number of fillings to choose from are many, and some of them originate in Skuleskogen’s pantry. You can now also enjoy chocolates with coffee, tea or soft drinks in their chocolate cafe.
SURSTRÖMMING U LV Ö H A M N
The annual High Coast highlight leaves no one untouched. The third Thursday in August, which is the 16th in 2018, is the date on every High Coast calendar that is as feared as it is looked forward to. This is when the annual fermented Baltic herring premier takes place. And where should all the world’s foodies and rapt fans of fermented herring head to if they want to experience “the real deal” – well it’s simple – they should hightail it directly to the island of Ulvön. This is where the locals take their signature dish very seriously. All the restaurants on the island serve up the ripe delicacy to their eager guests and the exclusive aroma of fermented herring wafts around, enveloping the entire village of Ulvöhamn in a soft aromatic cloud much to the joy and delight of visitors and residents alike. Well, to the joy and delight of those who take joy and delight in fermented herring that is.
TUNNBRÖD
MJÄLLOMS TUNNBRÖD
A family-owned company in Ullånger that has been baking flatbread for 97 years, making it Sweden’s oldest flatbread bakery. The company has been constantly changing and developing its products over the years. It was Rut Ullsten who founded the company in her little bake house in Mjällom. She had grown up with handcrafts and today the company is run by the third generation of Ullstens, with all of its products still based on Rut’s original recipe. In 1977 the company moved to Ullånger and today their bread isn’t only a Swedish classic, it is also a delicacy that we are very proud of here in the High Coast region. Raw ingredients of the highest quality, almost 100 years of accumulated knowledge and experience and a big pinch of passion. This is the recipe for success. And water, flour and a hot oven of course. The bread is still baked in the oven that was installed in 1946, and the bakers work hard to produce the perfect bread. Are you keen to try a true classic? Take a piece of flatbread, top it with some boiled potato, crème fraiche and whitefish roe. Getting a true taste of the High Coast is this easy. When you visit the bakery, you can also try your own hand at baking flatbread in the bake house.
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DISCOVER
SWEDISH RUSKS
EMMAS SKAFFERI
Rusk bakery Emmas Skafferi can now be found in Ullånger at Mjälloms Flatbread Bakery. These handcrafted masterpieces are made with carefully selected ingredients and will give your tastebuds a fantastic treat thanks to their around 40 different flavours. You will find most of them in the bakery’s Factory Shop.
CHEESE
HÄGGBY GÅRD
/ FLAVOURS
DISCOVER THE FOOD Treat yourself to a culinary journey in the High Coast. Here we are template for our dedicated food producers - test our High Coast delicacies at one of the creative restaurants that refine these ingredients.
At prize-winning Häggby Gård in Häggdånger, just over ten kilometres south of Härnösand, high-end cheeses are being produced. On the family farm, much appreciated cheeses such as Axelina, Julia, Byviken and Grönborg are made from organic, pasteurised milk sourced from the family’s very own herd of cows. Make sure you visit their farm shop so you can find your own
BEVERAGES
ULVÖ HOTELL
H E R N Ö G I N & H I G H COA S T D I S T I L L E RY
U LV Ö N
Award-winning Hernö Gin and Box Whisky have been presented as producers of internationally renowned products that are as far away from typical beverages in Sweden, northern Sweden and Ångermanland as you can get. The fact is that the High Coast’s most successful ambassadors out in the world in recent years have been gin and whisky.
LÄNSMANSGÅRDEN LUGNVIK
GÅRDSBUTIKEN NORDINGRÅ
LINNÉA & PETER Ö R N S KÖ L D S V I K
SANKT PETRI LOGEN HÄRNÖSAND
MORE BEVERAGES HERNÖ HANTVERKSÖL
Hernö Craft beer in Härnösand started in 2011 and the microbrewery produces annually 40,000 liters of beer. Ulvö Brown, Liquorice Sports, Lungö Pale and Stoned IPA flavored with lingonberries and juniper berries can be ordered at Systembolaget and their beer St Sixtus took silver medal in the beer competition at Nolia Beer 2018. The brewery pub organizes everything from parties and pub evenings to beer tastings.
EVEN MORE BEVERAGES
K VA R N Å S H R U B
HALLSTABERGET SOLLEFTEÅ
HOTELL HÖGA KUSTEN V E DA
Award-winning Kvarna Shrub, a craft vinegar that has been praised and further developed. Made from pure foods without additives and with great care. Shrub is acclaimed by chefs, restaurants and health enthusiasts and is one of the trendiest (and most healthiest) you can drink. In addition, completely alcohol free.
BRYGGHUSET KÖK & BAR HÄRNÖSAND
Explore and learn more All the flavors of the High Coast and restaurants at hogakusten.com/flavours
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GUIDE TO
/ ALLEMANSRÄTTEN
Sweden has something that is totally unique. The Swedish countryside is open to everyone, and as a tourist you can roam and visit almost anywhere. So take your chance and find a beautiful picnic spot – there are so many to choose from.
Everyone’s right to nature - The Right of Public Access, is an ancient custom that is written in the Swedish Constitution. Many Swedes think of it as part of their cultural heritage and a national symbol for Sweden. In short, it gives everyone the right to roam in nature, pitch a tent, light a campfire and pick berries and mushrooms. You can walk on private roads, as long as you respect private residences by keeping away from houses and gardens. Take care of the surfaces you walk on, big boots can leave big footprints in soft ground. Can you believe that you are allowed to pitch your tent on private land? But if you want to stay more than a night or two you need to ask the landowner for permission, and always pitch your tent well away from any residential houses. The Right of Public Access gives you the opportunity to stay for longer and enjoy our nature in peace and quiet. You can pick flowers, berries and mushrooms, but be sure not to pick any protected species. ALLEMANSRÄTTEN
has countless fantastic picnic areas where you can prepare your meal over an open fire. Sand and gravel are good surfaces to light a fire on. Why not barbeque with a view? Make your way up to one of the High Coast’s many fantastic viewpoints and cook your dinner outdoors. Uvberget in Härnösand, Kulberget and Fäberget in Kramfors and Fjälludden in Örnsköldsvik are perfect for this. Visiting Skuleskogen National Park is a must when you are in the High Coast region. But once you are in the national park, the right of public access is somewhat restricted and you have to follow park rules and regulations. There are specific places for you to barbeque, and animals are
not welcome in all parts of the park where they can disturb wildlife. Make sure you are aware of all the rules and regulations before you visit the park. >> naturvardverket.se has all the information you need in Swedish, English and German.
KEEP FOLLOWING IN MIND • Do not walk over cropland or land that is easily disturbed. • If you are visiting forested areas, be careful not to tread on seedlings • If you are walking on private roads, please respect boundaries to people’s homes and gardens. • Make sure you are aware of fire restrictions. • If you are lighting a campfire, do not break off branches from any living trees or bushes. Ensure it is fully extinguished before you leave. • In Skuleskogen National Park, make sure you are aware of the rules and regulations that apply there.
T H E H I G H C OA ST
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Bild
A floating experience in the Höga Kusten with dining, music & magnificent views See the mighty Höga Kusten bridge from the water!
For more information visit www.adalen3.com
.nature is calling you #mitthärnösand
C R E AT I V I T Y
/ DESIGNERS & INNOVATORS
ORIGIN HÖGA KUSTEN
Immense energy and powerful innovativeness have shaped many of the High Coast’s creatives and innovators. Today more than ever. T H E Y A R E A L L artists, in their own way. Åke Nordin,
whose hard work and brilliant ideas have today, 60 years on, won him global cult status with outdoor equipment company Fjällräven. A true pioneer in the outdoor industry whose company continues to release new products such as this one – which is naturally named the High Coast Foldsack. Docksta Sko has even more history – they have been hand-making shoes for almost 100 years. These handmade slippers are a fashionable must for your feet. And from here it’s not far to new, attractive fabrics and art from Viktoria Säker, such as her kitchen tea towels with attractive designs inspired by our surroundings here in the High Coast. Or jewellery from Alti whose creator and designer Åsa Backman lives for the mountains, sea and forest. Genuine and of course hand made. Just like these artistic candles from Skare whose lovely light attracts large numbers into their store by the bridge Höga Kustenbron. And you are excused if you don’t yet own one of Peter Örjeheim’s knives. Not many people do. But several highprofile celebrity chefs have already fallen for both the amazing handcraft seen in their design and their quality that will make your fancy knives at home pale in comparison. Because this beautiful knife is the ultimate gift to any kitchen. Other than all these beautiful products just happening to be here on the same page, these things have one thing in common – they are all deeply inspired by their origin, Höga Kusten.
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Family fun GUIDE TO
/ KIDS ACTIVITIES
HIGHLIGHTS FOR
young explorers
AND ADVENTURERS
HORNÖBERGET
P L AYG R O U N D
Right by the Hotel Höga Kusten with views over the famous bridge Högakustenbron you’ll find a big playground with plenty of activities, including lots of water play. And it’s free to visit! Easily accessed toilets and the hotel right there with ice creams and refreshments, a restaurant and accommodation. A great, convenient location and we promise you the kids will love it.
JUNSELE DJURPARK
G R E AT DAY O U T
Come and see lynx, bears, wolves, camels and other interesting animals. Take the time to visit Junsele Zoo where perhaps the white tigers are the most popular attraction. You can stay here, eat well and make memories for life.
TÄRNÄTTHOLMARNA
RÖVARSTIGEN
On the eastern coast of Skuleskogen, a short hike from Näske, discover great swimming beaches, barbeque sites and cottages. A playful oasis in the national park.
Wonderful walking trail to the much talked about robbers’ cave on Skuleberget. An exciting place to take a break and admire the stunning views.
OUTDOOR LIFE
KÄLLARBACKENS SAGA OUTDOOR LIFE
On the eastern coast of Skuleskogen, a short hike from Näske, discover great swimming beaches, barbeque sites and cottages. A playful oasis in the national park.
SKALLBERGSGROTTORNA ADVENTURE
An exciting outing to one of Sweden’s longest cave systems. Easy to access, prepared with ladders and fun for everyone to explore. Cottages and lovely picnic spots.
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MAGASIN HÖGA KUSTEN 2020
OUTDOOR LIFE
A SELECTION
/ PLACES TO VISIT
WHAT DO YOU SAY ABOUT A GUIDED TOUR THROUGH SWEDISH FLATBREAD HISTORY, AN EXCITING VISIT TO AN UNDERGROUND FORTRESS OR A LUXURIOUS CUP OF COFFEE IN A BOTANICAL OASIS?
Experience the range of cultural heritage and places to visit in Höga Kusten.
A SELECTION phOTO
Håkan Nordström, Peder Sundström
wo r d s
Elin Holmberg
FriluftsByn – the Outdoor Village. It is located in the absolute heart of the High Coast, at the foot of Skuleberget right by Skuleskogen National Park. Their visitor centre will give you the best ideas on how to spend your time in the High Coast World Heritage Site and help you tailor make your visit, ensuring it is world class. And don’t forget to try some local delicacies while you are here! If you are interested in history, take a trip to the island of Ulvön and visit the Ulvö Chapel, which is the oldest wooden building in northern Sweden. This historical chapel is a very popular place for weddings in the summer months and is home to many a dramatic tale dating all the way back to 1622 when it was built. For those who want to travel even further back in time, be sure to visit Genesmon or Nämforsens Rock Carving Museum in Näsåker. There are about 2600 rock carvings in Nämforsen, some dating back 6000 years. The natural environment is magical with the beautiful riverbanks and waterfall. Mannaminne is a fantastic, colourful work of art that defies description. Follow artist and collector Anders Åberg’s footsteps and see works of art, museum exhibits, interesting buildings, cars and boats from all corners of the globe. There is no other place like it in Sweden and a visit to the High Coast would not be complete without going to this magical art centre. You will also find the cosy guesthouse Sestola here with 15 rooms. Deep under Storråberget on the island of Hemsön is one of the country’s best-kept defence secrets. Hemsö Fortress was once a top-secret underground fortress and one of Sweden’s largest defence facilities during the Cold War. Today it is a tourist attraction popular with both adults and children who like a bit of excitement. Do you want to know a little about the industrial history of Ångermanländ? Visit Docksta Sko. It is the oldest shoe factory in the country and it uses the same production methods now as it did in 1923 when the company was founded. Why not take a short boat trip out to the island of Högbonden? You can sit back and enjoy nature’s entire spectrum from here. There is a lovely Bed and Breakfast that serves delicious food in the evenings as well. Stepping over the threshold at Mat & Nostalgi (Food and nostalgia) in Viksjö is like travelling 60 years back in time. It is a wonderful blend of shop, café, petrol station, retro boutique, museum and flea market. In Viksjö you can also visit Västanåfallet, one of Sweden’s highest waterfalls where you will find a nature and culture centre. The bridge Höga Kustenbron is one of many beautiful bridges in the High Coast region. Visit it in the evening and admire its lighting as night falls. But the High Coast isn’t just nature and culture, it is also food and beverages. Flatbread with various toppings is a national dish and Ullånger is home to Mjälloms tunnbröd, the country’s oldest flatbread bakery. Show garden Villa Fraxinus is perfect for a quiet moment in nature. The restaurant is in the garden, which is a true oasis. Did you know that whisky is made here in Ångermanland? In the old power station in Box, right by the Ångermanälven River, the High Coast Distillery has been making single malt whisky for several years and in Dala outside Härnösand you will find Sweden’s only gin distillery, which also happens to be the northernmost in the world. Hernö Gin has won several prizes and offers study visits with tastings for larger, pre-booked groups. Häggby gård in Häggånger outside Härnösand is a dairy and farm store that produces its own butter, hard cheeses and sour milk. // W H Y N O T S T A R T by experiencing the High Coast World Heritage Site from
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The island of Trysunda in the archipelago is made up of warm forests, sandy beaches and magical views. And peace. The island has been named Sweden’s most beautiful island but for many it remains an undiscovered jewel in the middle of the World Heritage Site. T RYS U N DA
HEMSÖ FÄSTNING
Lingonberries are a key ingredient in the farm store Gårdbutiken’s assortment. Try homemade lingon drink – it’s hard to beat!
GÅRDSB
UTIKEN
GUIDE TO
/ MUSEUMS EXPERIENCE A rich history OF MOTOR VEHICLES, FISHING, ART, AND THE DARK AGE OF WITCH HUNTS.
VÄSTERNORRLANDS MUSEUM LOCAL HISTORY
Murberget in Härnösand consists of a modern museum with exhibitions, a shop and café plus an outdoor museum with houses and outdoor environments from the 1800s and 1900s. “8000 years in an hour” is Muberget’s slogan for the permanent exhibitions.
TRACES FROM THE PAST LOCAL HISTORY
Nämforsen waterfall, by the Ångermanälven River in Näsåker, is one of the largest single rock carving sites in northern Europe. There are about 2 600 carvings preserved here, and the oldest are thought to be 6 000 years old. A museum has been built close by with fascinating exhibitions, including a children’s museum where youngsters can experience how life once was in the High Coast region.
ULVÖ MUSEUM ISLAND LIFE
The idea with the newly opened Ulvö Museum is to give the visitor a sense of how life in the fishing community worked just over 100 years ago. The museum is located along Hamngatan and at the waterfront is a newly built boathouse and up the road there is a contemporary cookhouse.
ÖRNSKÖLDSVIKS MUSEUM ART GALLERY LOCAL HISTORY
The international exhibitions on Star Wars, Elvis Presley and Andy Warhol have had the highest profiles over the years but the many other exhibitions are well worth seeing too. Örnsköldsvik Museum and Art Gallery is a combined museum and art gallery located in central Örnsköldsvik. The 1904 Art Nouveau building was originally an old school house. The museum has a café and shop that sells local literature, gifts, toys and prints. It also sells items made by blacksmiths Bert Hagström and Tove Samuelsson.
HÄRNÖSANDS VETERAN CAR MUSEUM MOTORS
With its 140 cars and numerous motorcycles, a café and loads of motor nostalgia, the veteran car museum in central Härnösand is one of Sweden’s biggest. The museum’s slogan is “Cars you have forgotten to remember – Cars you would rather forget.”
THE WITCHES MUSEUM IN PRÄSTMON LOCAL HISTORY
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“The beliefs of the time affect the people” is the name of the exhibition about the witch trials in Torsåker in 1675. Visitors to the exhibition experience this dark piece of history that is still relevant today through digital and interactive technology and traditional artistic expression. MAGASIN HÖGA KUSTEN 2020
Experience the islands of Ulvön and Högbonden! The archipelago is the best part of the High Coast. The High Coast boats offer daily services to Ulvön and Högbonden – see timetables below.
TO AND FROM ULVÖN
Daily trips with m/s KUSTTRAFIK 2020-06-08 - 2020-08-23 Departure 9.30 10.15 10.45 Arrival 11.30 PRICE
Ullånger Docksta Mjällomslandet Ulvöhamn
17.00 16.15 15.45 15.00
Arrival Departure
Same day return Adult 250:- Child 100:- (1-12 år) Open return Adult 350:- Child 150:- (1-12 år) Single Adult 175:- Child 75:- (1-12 år) On-board cafeteria with liquor license.
TO AND FROM HÖGBONDEN Daily trips with m/s RONJA
2020-06-26 - 2020-08-16
FROM > TO Kl. Barsta > Högbonden 10.00 Högbonden > Bönhamn 10.15 Bönhamn > Högbonden 10.30 Högbonden >Barsta 10.45
Kl. 12.00 12.15 12.30 12.45
PRICE
Adult 200:Adult 100:-
Same day return Single
Kl. 14.00 14.15 14.30 14.45
Kl. 16.00 16.15 16.30 16.45
Child 70:- (1-12 år) Child 50:- (1-12 år)
FREE PARKING at all ports of departure. Welcome aboard! Book through our website or by phone.
Höga Kusten-Båtarna +46 613-105 50 • info@hkship.se • www.hkship.se
Charge your batteries in Sollefteå
HALLSTABERGET • Skicross and funpark • 6 slopes and 4 lifts (child lift) • 60 km of prepared ski trails • 7.5 km of illuminated ski trails • Biathlon and ski jumping • Summer training (roller skis, running) • Centrally located in the ski resort is Hotell Hallstaberget with spa facilities • Close to city center
www.hallstaski.se
For everything about Sollefteå visit gosolleftea.se RAMSE
ACTIVITY
/ RELAXATION
L
et your senses be awoken by gentle warmth, delicate aromas, calm music and delicious flavours. At Paradiset in Örnsköldsvik it is easy to pass a few hours just being, without any musts or to-dos. Take the chance to test out their brand new cryotherapy facility that is fantastic for both your joints and skin. And it will definitely refill your energy reserves as well. Örnsköldsvik is home to a paradise right in the middle of town where all stress is left outside. In the restful and calmly lit environment you can enjoy infusion saunas, various types of showers, Jacuzzis, saltarium capsules, a salt cave and other wellbeing treatments. This is home to Sweden’s largest wooden sauna and visitors can read or doze to soothing music in one of the many comfortable chaise lounges. L A S T A U T U M N , Paradiset opened a whole new floor in its premises.
p h O T O Håkan Nordström w o r d s Elin Holmberg
Here you can enjoy a lounging room and an area for yoga and meditation where visitors can either book themselves into a class or do yoga by themselves following instructions on a big screen. Facial treatments and massages are offered in the treatment rooms. The most spectacular feature is the cryotherapy facility: cryotherapy is a treatment that cools the body down to a very low temperature for 2-3 minutes. This enhances your health in several ways. You will experience a true endorphin kick, your blood circulation increases and muscle recovery is enhanced. – It is also beneficial for different types of skin disorders and joint pain, says David Berglund, manager at Paradiset. He is proud of what Paradiset has achieved in recent years. – We keep an eye on all the new spa trends around the world. Previously we focused solely on enjoyment, now we want to combine that with health benefits as well. This is a way we can give back to our customers. be seen in the restaurant that was given a total overhaul a couple of years ago and was also given a completely new, healthier menu with greener dishes. – We wanted to focus on health in our spa and restaurant. The idea is that you can spend a whole day in your robe, taking it easy and enjoying your time here, says David Berglund. In order to get that feeling, shelves were installed that are now home to 134 small biospheres in glass bottles. The mirrored walls multiply the effect and the menu predominantly features plant-based dishes that let diners choose what they want with their meal. // THIS CAN ALSO
ALSO DISCOVER… Hallsta Sky Spa & Relax in Sollefteå. This is a place for all sauna lovers. In ”Sauna World” no less than five kinds of saunas are on offer: an aroma sauna, light therapy sauna, dry sauna, Finnish sauna and steam sauna. In Norrfällsviken you can enjoy a sauna and hot tub that are right on the beach, letting you look out over the open sea. It’s hard to get closer to the sea than Lotsstugans sauna that is on an anchored raft. You can enjoy a hot sauna and a dip in the sea right at the sauna door. When the southerly wind is hitting hard in the autumn you can go down to the sauna on the stony beach below Högbonden’s lighthouse for a fantastic experience out in nature. Wild and incredibly beautiful.
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The idea is that you can spend a whole day in your robe, taking it easy and enjoying your time here
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DISCOVER
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/ HIKING
phOTO
Peder Sundstrรถm
wo r d s
Steven Ekholm
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the High Coast unique is its rich topographical variation and its high coastal mountains. You can find both fantastic short hikes that still offer world-class experiences; for example the Höga Kustenstigen trail up to the top of Skuleberget, the many other mountain tops with great viewpoints and the hiking out on the islands in the archipelago, just to name a few. There are also long lineal hiking trails such as the High Coast Trail, Nipleden Trail and Lotsstigen Trail, and also loop trails that take a few days such as the World Heritage Trail and the Arnäsleden Trail. Many of the best places to visit on the High Coast, including Skuleskogen National Park are enjoyed by the majority of visitors on day hikes, even if the experience is only intensified with a night in your tent or in one of the many cabins or wind shelters that can be used for sleeping in.
KU S T E N
W H AT M A K E S
N VÄ
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he popularity of hiking is steadily increasing in Sweden and it is nothing short of a hot trend right now. It can’t be called a new trend, though, because for a long time, hiking in the forests and mountains has been as close as you can get to a national movement in this country. Today’s modern hikers have slightly different priorities from their parents and grandparents, even if nature is still a main focus. More people are interested in taking active holidays, and they are more focused on being healthy and climate smart and spending time with their families. And 30-kilo backpacks filled with tents and awful freeze-dried meals are definitely a thing of the past. Modern hiking has become more lightweight, less macho and a lot more fun.
A
Modern hiking has become more lightweight, less macho and a lot more fun. is an Eldorado for all kinds of hikers. Tourist revenue is increasing every year and the largest group of visitors, many of whom are not from Sweden, are coming here primarily to get a fix for their hiking addictions. The choices are endless and there are excellent visitor centres where both experienced and new hikers can get help with planning their holiday – the outdoor village Friluftsbyn and the Naturum Visitor Centre are two excellent hiking hubs. T H E H I G H C OA ST
to the weather is a great rule to live by. Some of the trails can be wet, and a good pair of stable, watertight boots will quickly become your best friends. Make sure you have really good food with you too that can be prepared when you are outdoors. Because this is what more and more people are discovering about hiking and outdoor life, it is all about enjoying yourself. Don’t ever forget that! // D R E S S AC C O R D I N G
T R A I L S T H AT W I L L M A K E YO U R DAY In his guidebook on hiking the High Coast (Calazo), author Steven Ekholm writes the following about his three favourite places and perfect modern day hikes. Valkallen – The view from here defines what the High Coast Trail is all about. Waiting for the sunrise up here on a light summer’s night will give you one of the trail’s most memorable experiences. Slåttdalsskrevan – the most visited geological place on the High Coast is also the most impressive. Despite its impressive depth, it is still one of Skuleskogen National Park’s highest points. Lake Balestjärn – a real gem. The lake bed is an ancient sea bed and it is believed that this is what makes the water so uniquely clear that divers have been known to make the effort of carrying all their equipment up here. But just a mask and snorkel will be enough to give you a feeling of vertigo! Don’t miss the trails Gulaleden, Geologistigen, Ulviksleden, Nipleden or Stenbergsleden either. Read more on hogakusten.com
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DISCOVER
/ HIKING
SECTION 4 G AV I K - L A P P U D D E N
Easily hiked terrain with a side track to the hill fort Rödklitten. Pleasant hiking along beautiful forest trails. On arrival in Lappudden you are met by a beautiful environment with a
Ö R N S KÖ L D S V I K
SECTION 8 SKULEBERGET - KÄL
Unbeatable views from the top of Skuleberget. A gorgeous stretch with a 5km side trail to Bergsbodarna. Once you arrive in Käl, there are benches, a table and a swimming spot perfect on warm days.
Experience the best of the High Coast from front row seats. The High Coast Trail is a magnificent hike divided into 13 sections and is one of the
SECTION 11
BALESUDDEN
KÖ P M A N H O L M E N - S A N D L ÅG A N
The trail’s last section that includes six kilometres walking right through Balesudden’s beautiful nature reserve. A hut in good condition perfect for overnighting in Bodviken.
S L ÅT T DA L S S K R E VA N
SKULEBERGET
RÖDKLITTEN
HÖGAKUSTENBRON
VA L K A L L E N
HÄRNÖSAND
High Coast trail
best coastal hiking trails in northern Europe. Enjoy the
sweeping views and lovely swimming spots. 128 km await you – or just choose the sections that appeal to you the most, or the side trails along the way. Like a modern hiker. We will help you make one of Sweden’s longest hikes accessible, even for day trips. SECTION 1 9,8 km ••• Hornöberget – Lövvik SECTION 2 9,6 km •• Lövvik – Fjärdbotten SECTION 3 12,8 km ••• Fjärdbotten – Gavik SECTION 4 11,5 km • Gavik – Lappudden SECTION 5 15,0 km ••• Lappudden – Ullånger SECTION 6 10,5 km •• Ullånger – Skoved SECTION 7 6,8 km • Skoved – Skuleberget SECTION 8 9,2 km •• Skuleberget – Käl SECTION 9 8,6 km ••• Käl – Näske SECTION 10 6,0 km • Näske – Köpmanholmen SECTION 11 12,7 km • Köpmanh. – Sandlågan SECTION 12 1,6 km •• Sandlågan – Svedje SECTION 13 4,0 km • Svedje – Örnsköldsvik
On hogakusten.com you will find more information on all the sections along the High Coast Trail. Also, check out naturkartan.se for more trail information and maps. • Easy hiking •• Intermediate hiking ••• Advanced hiking
ACCO M M O DAT I O N wo r d s
/ YOUR OWN BOATHOUSE
Elin Holmberg
YOUR OWN BOATHOUSE GET THAT GENUINE FEELING – STAY IN A boathouse the sunset or sunrise, sitting on a jetty with your feet dangling above the water. The High Coast has plenty of lovely little boathouses with long and exciting histories. And some of them are actually available for visitors to rent. Boathouse is a name that is used to describe any kind of building on the coast or in the archipelago that is used – or has been used – to store boats and equipment for fishermen. Some boathouses were even originally used for accommodation as not all boats were suitable for staying on when fishing around the islands located further out to sea. Today, it is popular to convert old boathouses into summer holiday houses. This isn’t permitted in all parts of Sweden, however. For those who choose to holiday in the High Coast, there are many accommodation alternatives. Staying in a boathouse can be both cosy and have a spartan feel. It can be an experience! Torbjörn Bergkvist from Stockholm owns a cute little boathouse in Bönhamn. – It is booked out almost the whole summer, the I M AG I N E E X P E R I E N C I N G
demand is that high,” he tells us. It’s the close proximity to the water and the genuine feeling of history that he thinks is the reason behind this. – You have the water right there and the old fishing village is close by, it’s a great set up really,” he says. The boathouse has been owned by his family for generations, and was built in the late 1800s. Torbjörn has renovated the interior, strengthened it and replaced the roof. The bathroom is modern and some rooms are insulated and therefore suitable for winter use. – In Bönhamn, renovating your boathouse is permitted, he says. On the lower floor he has left half the area in its original state, with gaps between the floor planks and the water right below. – It’s primarily people from Stockholm and southern Sweden who rent it, he tells us. //
R E N T A B OAT H O U S E You can rent a boathouse in the High Coast in the following places:
Norrfällsvikens fiskeläge Bönhamns fiskeläge Berghamn i Norabygden Måvikens camping
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The High Coast at your fingertips! “The local, affordable and peaceful option in the city center” Hotell Focus is located in the heart of downtown Örnsköldsvik! We are: 300 m to the travel center 250 m to the harbor 100 m to shopping street
Focus +46 660-821 00 info@hotellfocus.se www.hotellfocus.se
tion area vated relaxa Newly reno zzi. The city’s cu ja d an a with saun t right arby but no al nightlife is ne ow. Person nd wi ur yo outside l specialties. ca lo th wi t breakfas
Each Best Western® branded hotel is independently owned and operated.
bestwestern.se
ADVENTURE & RELAXATION UNDER THE SAME ROOF
PARADISETORNSKOLDSVIK.SE
OPENING HOURS June, July, August Open daily 11 am to 5 pm, though hours may vary. Extended opening hours in July and the first two weeks of August. September-May Open the first saturday of the month, 11 am to 5 pm GUIDED TOURS OF THE DISTILLERY June, July, August, every day at 1 pm and 3 pm.
highcoastwhisky.se Welcome to our home, High Coast – 63° N. Sörviken, Bjärtrå
Höga Kusten Airport 0612 – 718 110 hogakustenairport.se
Always free parking
highcoastmedia.com
Quick and easy - to and from Stockholm!
GUIDE T0
/ BEACHES
BJÖRNVIKEN T RYS U N DA
You won’t get any closer to paradise at this latitude. Björnviken on the island of Trysunda is the Bondi Beach of the High Coast. Perfect for families and groups of friends with a boat. Easily accessible via the shallow sandy beach. Just point the boat in towards land. If you don’t have your own boat, you can use the public ferry system – M/ F Ulvön will get you here from Köpmanholmen.
BEACH GUIDE FAMILIES, BOATIES, SUN WORSHIPPERS OR WATER BABIES.
Find your own favourite spot PERFECT FOR YOU THIS SUMMER.
MAGASIN HÖGA KUSTEN 2020
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/ BEACHES
ROTSIDAN NORDINGRÅ
This fantastic, kilometre-long slickrock beach just has to be experienced. Perfect for sun worshippers and photographers. Turn right at the ice hall in Nordingrå towards Barsta/Bönhamn and keep a lookout for the signpost marking a small forestry road. Follow it for several kilometres until you get to a car park. From there, you can easily walk to the water even with prams and wheelchairs.
STORSAND
NORRFÄLLSVIKEN
Storsand is a shallow bay with a lovely sandy beach, soft sand dunes and tall pine trees. A family favourite. Jump high and land soft in the sand dunes, climb about on the roots of the huge pines and perform tricks from the grassy islands that form along the beach. A playful, yet peaceful beach. Accessible by road from Norrfällsviken, past the golf course.
SALUSAND HUSUM
The northernmost sea beach on the High Coast. Only a stone’s throw from the E4 highway, just north of Husum. A delightful sandy beach and probably Sweden’s northernmost surfer’s paradise in the spring and autumn.
KU S T E N
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GUIDE T0
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SMITING
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FJÄLLUDDEN
Ö R N S KÖ L D S V I K
Perfect for the outdoor family that likes swimming and barbequing. You might even take a sauna in the evening as you wait for dinner. Jetties, cliffs, sauna, cabin and barbeque area just by the waterway into the inlet Bäckfjärden. A wonderful place that can be accessed by bike, car or boat.
SMITINGEN HÄRNÖSAND
One of the absolutely best beaches in northern Sweden. Beach volleyball, a kiosk and a great atmosphere. Perfect for those who don’t like sand and cold water. The water temperature can be really warm in the summer, so make the trip there to try it out. Take your car 10-15 minutes along the roads Gånsviksvägen/Sandvägen from Härnösand.
GULLVIK
Ö R N S KÖ L D S V I K
A favourite place for campers in the northern part of the High Coast. Long, lovely sandy beach, beach volleyball, beach football and minigolf. Perfect for an active bunch of friends and sun worshippers alike. Fully licenced beach restaurant.
HÖVENBADET RESELE
Lovely swimming spot in Resele. Small playground, wind shelter with barbeque, changing room, toilets, outside showers and a little lawn perfect for games.
LESS SAND If you prefer heated pools to lakes and the seaside, there are plenty of outdoor pools to choose between in the High Coast – everything from entire complexes with various pools, slides and picnic areas for games to small, cosy spots. Ramsele camping has a large pool beautifully positioned below the impressive riverbanks. A bit outside Junsele is a pool only a stone’s throw away from the zoo. Risöbadet in Sollefteå has a paddling pool and two large pools where you can swim with your friends. In Mellansel outside Örnsköldsvik you will find a popular swimming complex with several pools and slides. Solbacken is a lovely outdoor pool at Dekarsön in Örnsköldsvik. On Ulvön you will find a newly renovated pool in the harbour by the hotel and in Norrfällsviken kids love to visit the pool at the camping ground. One of the larger heated outdoor pools in the area is Flogstabadet, a few kilometres from Kramfors. It has several pools, minigolf, a water slide and large lawns for playing.
Experience the smell of flatbread baked in our woodfired oven and feel the anticipation as a dab of butter slowly melts on the golden-brown surface. Here at Mjälloms, we consider flatbread baking an artisan craft, a balancing act between the natural ingredients and the baker’s intuition. The basic recipe is simple, just flour, water, and a hot oven, but it’s the craftsmanship that makes all the difference.
Visit us to learn more about this culinary craft. For flatbread baking bookings, visit our website, www.mjalloms.se/bagarstuga
on Toast Mjälloms Roe
fraîche on Spread the crème p with the to d a flatbread an bleak roe of nt ou am desired Crème fraîche w garnish No or lavaret roe. finely Bleak roe or lavaret roe th wi ad your flatbre You can n. io on d re d choppe Red onion er and pp pe also add black Black pepper and sea salt e. st ta to sea salt
Mjälloms Oat Flatbread
t
oas Roe on T
Mjälloms Tunnbröd AB, Industrivägen 10, 870 32 Ullånger, 0613 - 71 13 50, www.mjalloms.se
GUIDE TO
/ BEST BEDROOM VIEWS
A room with a view... WAKE UP TO THE HIGH COAST’S most spectacular views OUTSIDE YOUR BEDROOM WINDOW.
ELITE PLAZA HOTEL
HOTELL H A L L S TA B E R G E T
U LV Ö H OT E L L
ULVÖ HOTELL
T H E J E W E L O F T H E B A LT I C
If you are looking for a hotel with a view, and want to stay right by the water, then Ulvö Hotell is the place for you. It is a high-quality establishment with a fantastic restaurant run by chef Tobias Andersson, who loves to exceed his guests’ expectations time and again. This season brings you a newly renovated restaurant, an even better stocked wine cellar and a wonderful new hotel spa. You won’t find anything better on the entire Baltic.
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LOTSSTUGAN
C O S Y, R I G H T B Y T H E S E A
Lotsstugan is the old harbour pilot’s house that has been converted into holiday accommodation and a restaurant with a fantastic sea view. Sauna, spa and hot tubs with breathtaking views.
HOTELL HÖGA KUSTEN BY THE BRIDGE
Hotell Höga Kusten is beautifully positioned on the northern side of the impressive bridge Högakustenbron. The restaurant has enormous panoramic windows with a magical view over the bridge and Ångermanälven river.
HÖGBONDEN
HISTORIC AND UNIQUE
Unique accommodation in the old lighthouse keeper’s house, with an atmosphere full of serenity and calm, set high above the Baltic Sea’s thundering waves. Hard to find somewhere to stay closer to nature than this. Set in a beautiful and exciting nature reserve.
HOTELL HÖGA KUSTEN
HÖGBONDEN
ELITE PLAZA HOTEL MODERN AND CENTRAL
Elite Plaza Hotel on the inner harbour of Örnsköldsvik has modern rooms, a spa with gym and sauna and amazing views over the surrounding area. The Bishop’s Arms pub is located inside the hotel and during the summer it has fantastic outdoor seating, right by the water.
HOTELL HALLSTABERGET S PA H OT E L W I T H U N B E ATA B L E
Newly renovated spa hotel with a pool and sauna world. À la carte restaurant and rooms/ suites with dramatic views over Sollefteå and the Ångermanälven river valley.
LOTSSTUGAN
MORE ACCO M M O DAT I O N ...for those who like to bring your own room along, and want the best views, head for one of these caravan or campervan sites along the High Coast where you can open your doors and enjoy incredible views: Friluftsbyn Snibbens camping Skulebergets havscamping Norrfällsvikens camping Sollefteå camping Gullviks havsbad More accommodation options can be found at hogakusten.com
GUIDE TO
/ B&B
...and COSY, BEAUTIFUL GUESTHOUSES AND
Bed & Breakfast ALLSTA GÅRD BED & BREAKFAST BJÄRTRÅ
8
hidden gems JUNSELE BED & BREAKFAST JUNSELE
Central in Junsele – perfect for exploring Junsele and its surroundings. Newly renovated, attractive accommodation with a homely, country style. An old house from the early 1900s that has been completely renovated on the inside.
Allsta Gård is a working organic farm with vegetable gardens, home baked bread, sheep and lamas. You can stay here in their unique accommodation “Cycle of Life House” that has been built using ancient techniques and ecological materials
LÄNSMANSGÅRDEN
GOTTFRIDSGÅRDEN
LUGNVIK
Ö R N S KÖ L D S V I K
Länsmansgården is a guesthouse close to the High Coast Distillery. It offers conference facilities and accommodation in a quiet and genuine environment. Get your friends together for an evening and enjoy a delicious dinner and whisky tasting. Or soak in the hot tub in the pretty garden.
Ö R N S KÖ L D S V I K
SOLLEFTEÅ
Pleasant accommodation in a great location, close to Åsverget and the ski lift. Single rooms, family rooms and a suite available. Common room, garden and a communal kitchen. As a guest you can also use the sauna and barbeque and let the kids go crazy in the playground.
KRAMFORS
SKULESKOGENS PENSIONAT D O C K S TA
HÄRNÖSAND
Unique accommodation in a beautifully renovated, original Ångermanland homestead. The guesthouse is located in a place of great natural beauty, just a stone’s throw from Skuleskogen National Park and the High Coast Trail. Dinner is available for advance bookings. You can also order a packed lunch for outings.
S KO G S N Ä S
Gröna Huset is a little conference facility in Skognäs, Ångermanland, surrounded by deep, quiet forests. The house has single and double rooms, a dining room, conference room, library and garden. Each room has been individually designed and decorated to reflect one of the world’s many cultures. Slow food is served in the restaurant.
BED & BREAKFAST VILLA FRIDHEM
MYLLER BED & BREAKFAST
Villa Fridhem is a beautifully renovated house built in 1868 in a fantastic coastal location only two kilometres from the city centre. There are several rooms to choose between and a breakfast buffet is available. Wood-fired sauna and Jacuzzi available for rent.
Myller B&B is located in the heart of Nordingrå and is a friendly, bohemian, welcoming place. The lounge and all the rooms have a beautiful view of the garden. If you are lucky you might meet an artist or two, as they frequently rent spaces here. There is also a store with art and handcrafts for sale.
HÄRNÖSAND
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GRÖNA HUSET
NORDINGRÅ
ENJOY THE HISTORY OF VÄSTERNORRLAND IN HÄRNÖSAND
MURBERGET
Fri entré www.vnmuseum.se Härnösand. Öppet tis–sön 11-17 Kvällsöppet torsdagar till 20 Butik & kafé, tfn 0611-886 00
FRILUFTSMUSEUM
Experience the High Coast
NEW!
Book and pay for your trip directly on our website
with M/F Ulvön and M/F Minerva
www.mfulvon
.se
KÖPMANHOLMEN - STRÄNGÖARNA, TRYSUNDA OCH ULVÖN M/F ULVÖN +46 70-651 92 65 • M/F MINERVA +46 72-737 73 52 • TICKET OFFICE + 46 660-22 38 55
DAILY ARCHIPELAGO BOAT TOURS, June 8 - August 16, 2020 M/F MINERVA
M/F ULVÖN
M/F MINERVA
M/F MINERVA
M/F ULVÖN
M/F MINERVA
M/F ULVÖN
M/F ULVÖN
-
06.00 06.25 07.10 08.00
09.45 10.05 * 10.45
11.25 11.50
11.30 11.55 12.30 13.00
15.00 15.45
15.30 15.55 16.40 17.30
20.15 20.40 21.15 21.45
08.30 * 09.10 09.30
09.00 09.35 10.20 11.00
11.00 11.25 -
12.15 * 12.55 13.15
13.30 13.50 14.25 15.00
-
17.45 18.20 19.05 19.45
22.00 22.20 22.55 23.30
Dep. Ulvöhamn
Ulvöhamn Fjären Strängöarna Trysunda Köpmanholmen Dep. Köpmanholmen
W
Köpmanholmen Strängöarna Trysunda Fjären Ulvöhamn
For the complete timetable and any changes, visit www.mfulvon.se
* Via Strängöarna. Call: +46 72-737 73 52
ARRIVING BY CAR Parking fees are charged at Köpmanholmen. You can pay for one hour and up, even an entire season. ARRIVING BY BUS If you want travel by bus to Köpmanholmen, check the timetable at www.dintur.se or call DinTur customer service on 0771-100 110. The bus to Köpmanholmen departs from Örnsköldsvik, so you need to change there if starting your journey elsewhere.
TALL TALES & MYTHS wo r d s
Elin Holmberg
THE LARGEST GIANT IN THE HIGH COAST REGION LIVED IN BÖNHAMN – his bottom HAS LEFT A LASTING IMPRESSION IN THE CLIFFS THERE. in a rage is now the island of Högbonden. What the giant didn’t know was that this island was going to be the location of a lighthouse. And after that a place popular among tourists. There are countless places along the High Coast with mythical tales attached to them. The tales of the robbers in Skuleskogen are probably the most well known. THE STONE HE ONCE THREW
Bönhamn and Skeppsmaln. They are some of the many places enshrouded by myths along the High Coast. Not to mention Skuleberget. “The most classic of all the myths in the region is about the robbers in Skuleskogen. Skuleberget has always been seen as a magical place,” says author Bo R Holmberg, who has lived his whole life in Ångermanland. He remembers how before the E4 highway was built, the main road went right by the mountain and as a child he could look out at it as they drove by. “A myth is always connected to a place, and quite often to a named person as well,” he explains. “The place and the person make a myth feasibly possible, but you can never be sure if it is true or not. One example is a record from the 1600s that depicts a boy in Härnösand running away from school so he could join the band of robbers. It is the only drawing in existence about ULLÅNGER, NORDINGRÅ,
the robbers that lived in the forest and cave on the mountain,” says Holmberg. And the cave is a real place frequently visited today, but whether or not robbers lived in it, no one knows for sure. “It isn’t very big so they couldn’t have lived there permanently, but it might have been a place they hid in or stored stolen goods in.” There are also stories about giants in the High Coast. The island of Högbonden, for example, is said to be a stone that a giant threw in a rage one day. folklore researchers in Ångermanland are Ella Odstedt and Levi Johansson. Ella Odstedt wrote several articles and texts in the 1930s and 1940s and her notes were published by folklore researcher Bengt af Klintberg in “Norrlänsk folktradition”. You can read Levi Johansson’s records on folklore in the region in a database at Västernorrland Museum. Bo R Holmberg is an expert on “vittror” – magical creatures that live underground who both fascinated and scared people far into the 1800s. “The live in groups, much like humans do. They are small, about 50cm tall, and you must be careful not to anger them. If you do upset them, they can punish you for the rest of your life.” // T H E M O S T FA M O U S
42
a
the robbers of skuleberget waited by the road at the bottom of the mountain and demanded travellers paid them to pass. They also roved the area on robbing missions. But the farmers in the village of Berg were never bothered by them until one day when the robbers started to steal their sheep. To keep them safe, the farmers rowed them out to the island of Mjältön. In the village there was an outcast who had moved there. He went up to the robbers’ cave on the mountain and said he wanted to join them – and to prove he was genuine he offered to take the robbers to where the farmers had hidden their sheep. The robbers followed him down to the sea, but on the way there the man pretended he had hurt his foot so when they reached the island he didn’t accompany them on their sheep hunt. This was his chance! He destroyed one of the boats and took all the robbers’ weapons and the other boat and rowed back to the mainland and the farmers. The robbers were now stranded on Mjältön, without any weapons. The farmers went over, armed to the teeth. They drove the robbers up over the island towards the high cliffs that plunged into the sea. The robbers had no way of defending themselves and, to avoid capture, they jumped to their deaths. It is thought that all the robbers were killed, as from that day onwards they were never seen or heard from again. But their gold is still there. When it has rained for three days in a row, you can still today see it shining on Skuleberget. What became of the outcast is unknown. Is it possible that he won over the farmers and was accepted into their village as one of them?
C U LT U R E
/ TALES
in Nora once built new stables, but his horses did not want to spend any time in there. Some mornings he found them outside and sometimes he found them with their manes beautifully plaited. They whinnied loudly and stamped their hooves. Then one year on Christmas Eve, when the family was sitting around the table, there was a knock on the door. There was a tiny man in a grey robe standing there. The farmer understood that the man was a magical creature and was frightened. He knew that steel protects against them, so he took hold of his axe. “Can you come with me to my house?” asked the man. The farmer went with him, but he took his axe. They came to his house A FA R M E R I N A V I L L AG E
T SKULE,
called giants have no problems straddling rivers and streams. They have strange and wonderful names such as Kettil of Böle, Hålan of Åkarn, Resel of Rödsle, Hammar of Hälle, Klinger of Skalle and Spjell of Bäck. The evidence of their existence that they have left in their wake is primarily a trail of stones – huge ones of course, often the size of barns. The giants were in the habit of falling out with each other, which led to them throwing stones at each other while yelling at ear-splitting volumes. They also threw stones at newly built churches, as the church T H E M A S S I V E C R E AT U R E S
Their gold is still there. When it has rained for three days in a row, you can still today see it shining on Skuleberget. bells irritated them. Luckily they always missed. But the stones are still where they landed. The largest of the Ångermanland giants once lived in Bönhamn. You can still see the impression his bottom left in the rock there. And he didn’t throw just regular stones. No, one of the stones he threw became the island of Högbonden. Maybe there was someone out at sea who upset him. Understandably, the stone didn’t go far. What the giant didn’t know was that the island would one day be home to a lighthouse and a lighthouse keeper, and even further into the future it would become a popular place for tourists to visit.
that was underground. His entire family was there and there was a full Christmas feast on the table. The man invited the farmer to join him and his family for dinner. But the farmer hadn’t even started to eat before he saw that something was dripping from the ceiling – so he jumped up. “Who is peeing on our food?” he asked. “Now you can see what your horses do,” said the man. ”If you move your stables, your horses will be happier, so you will be too. And I will be happier as well.” The farmer had built his stables right on top of the tiny man’s home. So he pulled down his stables and rebuilt them ten metres away. And the horses were much happier.
FOTO
Katarina Norström
PORTRAIT
/ A MAJOR CHANGE
From a chain house in the densely populated Netherlands to a large villa and huge garden in little Resele. Four years ago, the Smit-Moerman family made a major change that they have not regretted for a second. “We have a fantastic quality of life here in Resele and can give our children a good childhood” says Maaike Smit-Moerman.
T
he Resele tourist route is a hidden jewel. The road winds through the wilderness of steep mountains and sandy river banks, flowering meadows and deserted beaches. Right next to it flows the mighty Ångermanälven River. It isn’t hard to understand how the Dutch SmitMoerman family fell in love with this place on their first visit here. – We had been thinking about going on a big adventure and living closer to nature. We wanted to do it while the children were still small, says Maaike. Ibe had been on holiday in Sweden a few times so it was his idea to move here. And it was the High Coast that drew the family in. – We love the fantastic nature and the reliably snowy winters and all the activities that come with them. But we also love the sense of community and the fact that it is possible to buy a house for a good price, explains Maaike. They travelled here on holiday for a week and explored every corner of Kramfors Municipality. They visited the island of Ulvön, Norrfällsviken and Nordingrå, among other places. Then Ibe suggested a drive to Resele. – I can say that I was pretty sceptical. But when we got here and visited the village school, we were greeted with such friendliness; I actually got tears in my eyes! It felt
44
like the obvious place for us to live, says Maaike. After a while a house became available in Tängsta on the south side of the river. The family jumped at the chance without even seeing it. It needed a lot of work but the land was perfect and it had a further two houses with potential. They bought it for what seemed like nothing. In the Netherlands, Maaike worked with school development and the plan was to continue with this from Sweden. – But I soon realised it was going to be too stressful with all the travelling – it didn’t feel right. I wanted to be here in Resele and be part of the community. The couple had many ideas about what they wanted to do. Today they run the company Resele Adventures, which is also associated with the project Höga Kusten Inland, a co-operation between different tourism companies in Resele and Näsåker. They offer nature experiences such as beaver safaris, fishing trips and canoe rentals. Maaike is also a project leader for Leader Höga Kusten and Ibe has many irons in the fire, just as he did in the Netherlands. – If you want to live here, you have to be prepared to work with a broad range of things, he says with a smile. Resele is a little village with only 500 people, and we are spread out along a 20-km stretch of the river. But just last year, 35 people moved here. People from all over the world who just like the Smit-Moermans saw the charm of the place. – There is an energy and entrepreneurial feel here, it is clearly felt. If you dare to take the chance, it can be very rewarding, he says. The whole family speaks Swedish and their two sons Hieke and Mans, now aged seven and five, need to work to keep up their Dutch. They all have a lot of great plans for the future. For example, they want to create exciting accommodation alternatives in the middle of nature: A tree house, a raft on the river, and a Bed and Breakfast. – We truly believe in this, says Maaike. For activities and accommodation in the Resele region, go to >>hogakusteninland.com. Information is available in English, German and Dutch.
LIST
ON THE HIGH COAST, 13 IS NOT AN UNLUCKY NUMBER. CURIOUS, PRETTY OR USEFUL? HERE IS OUR OWN BUCKET LIST OF THE HIGH COAST’S thirteen places YOU CAN’T MISS IF YOU WANT TO GIVE YOUR INSTA ACCOUNT A LIFT. (FOR MAXIMUM LIKES, JUST HASHTAG #högakusten)
Scroll down for more
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NÄMFORSEN
#NÄMFORSEN
#THEWITCHES MUSEUM
River, sandbanks, waterfall – the nature here is crazy and dramatic! And smack bang in the middle of it all is Europe’s biggest collection of petroglyphs.
An exhibition depicting the witch hunts and executions of the women who were accused of being witches in the 1600s.
63.4384, 16.8912
6 3 . 0 8 2 3 , 1 7. 7 3 9 2
SOLLEFTEÅ
N I P S TA D S F I S K E T
THE WITCHES MUSEUM
#NIPSTADS FISKET
#HÖGAKUSTEN BRON
Happy is the angler who manages to book one of the attractive fishing spots along the river Ångermanälven. What can beat fishing for salmon on a long summer’s night?
Is it the Golden Gate Bridge? No, it is one of Sweden’s biggest and most beautiful suspension bridges, and a symbol for the region.
#TRYSUNDA
#SKULEBERGET 6 3 . 074 4 , 1 8 . 3 5 3 1
63.0223, 18.65676
#ULVÖHOTELL
#MANNAMINNE
The archipelago’s most beautiful island, with obvious signs of land uplift. The island’s highest point on Kapellberget is worth a visit.
Waffles and ice-cream taste best when eaten on top of a mountain. Especially after walking or climbing to the top.
Everyday luxury in a beautiful relaxing environment. The restaurant serves locally produced food and is named in the White Guide.
A collection of art that has to be seen to be believed! Take a walk in Anders Åberg’s footsteps among all the exhibits and buildings.
6 3 .1 74 3 , 1 7. 2 9 6 5
6 3 .1 3 8 5 , 1 8 . 7 9 4 7
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KRAMFORS
6 2 . 8 5 2 6 , 1 7. 8 8 2 3
62.9111, 18.3027
E4
4
LIST
Ö R N S KÖ L D S V I K
#HERRGÅRDS PARKEN 6 3 .1 7 3 3 , 1 8 . 5 7 1 1
Three experiences in one: nature, art and history. Herrgårdsparken is the hub of the High Coast Art Valley.
H E R R G Å R D S PA R K E N
SKEPPSMALN
T RYS U N DA
S K U L E S KO G E N S N AT I O N A L PA R K SKULEBERGET
U LV Ö H OT E L L
E4
#SKULESKOGENS NATIONALPARK
MANNAMINNE
6 3 .1 0 9 1 , 1 8 . 5 0 0 9
Skuleskogen National Park ties together mountains, forest and coast – a nature experience that is hard to beat. And robbers haven’t been seen in the cave for a few centuries…
ROTS I DA N
HÖGAKUSTENBRON
HÄRNÖSAND
SMITINGEN
#SKEPPSMALN 6 3 .1 6 4 6 , 1 8 . 9 6 1 7
The start or the end of the High Coast. Home of the world’s only fermented herring museum, Skagsudde’s lighthouse and beautiful slick rock shores.
#ROTSIDAN
62.8454, 18.3784 The sea has been polishing the coastline here for thousands of years. The World Heritage Trail goes to the nature reserve from Barsta and Fällsvikshamn.
#SMITINGEN
62.6011, 18.0348 Like a beach in Greece, but in Härnösand. Smitingen is all about sun, warmth and exploring caves, sea stacks and cobble fields.
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C R E AT I V I T Y
/ ARKNAT
A creative architecture festival and nine architecturally designed wind shelters located in different locations in the world heritage site. Arknat was recently awarded with an architecture and design prize at the swedish design awards by rum 2020 in the category architecture of the year.
Take shelter
from a tree, in the middle of the forest. A forest cradle – a floating wooden sanctuary in an unassuming place where it would perhaps otherwise never be discovered. “Forest Cradle” is one of nine architecturally designed wind shelters in the World Heritage Site and is located on the southern side of Skuleberget along the High Coast Trail. Nature and architecture meet everywhere, but what can and should their interaction look like if you want to create wellbeing, sustainability and inviting environments all at once? This was the idea behind Arknat, the Scandinavian Architectural Festival. It was held in the High Coast for the first time over several exciting weeks in the summer of 2017. – Arknat is a project where architecture students from Scandinavia are invited to seminars and workshops but also to design and construct practical projects. With Arknat, we want to challenge ideas on nature and archiIT’S HANGING
A wind shelter is more than just a wind shelter
tecture, explains Martin Björklund, Sweco. He is a construction engineer, community planner and one of the initiators of the project. – The plan was to design and build something on a smaller scale. We decided to do wind shelters, as these are something that everyone can relate to. But the task wasn’t easy - the brief stated that the wind shelters should both stick out and blend in, he tells us. – The unexploited land should continue to be unexploited, but also invite visitors to experience a moment of peace and quiet. The work was based at FriluftsByn where workshops were held and open events took place. – It was an open event, visitors could take part in what we were doing, he tells us. in three teams and three structures being built. In addition to the “Forest Cradle”, the work “Over the Edge” T H E W O R K R E S U LT E D
48
was constructed – a viewing platform on Kulberget that offers magnificent views over Norafjärden. In Hålviken close to Balesudden Nature Reserve you can find the artificial forest “Skogsdunge” that has replaced the old wind shelter. – A wind shelter is more than just a wind shelter, it adds a little extra to the experience. The idea was never for them to be put in well-known, popular places. The most important aspect is for them to trigger your senses WHERE? and get people curious enough to want to stop and have a look, Körning says Martin. THE TREE CUBE There is also an aspect of 62.9353, 18.2706 public health to the project. Näske – As much as the structures KOMPONERAR are pieces of art, we also want 6 3 .1 5 3 2 , 1 8 . 5 1 3 2 them to encourage people to get out into nature and feel good. Åsberget A-MAZE-THING In 2018 it was time again. 63.3022, 18.6573 Three new teams of architects and three new structures. Skuleberget In Körning, Nordingrå, “The FOREST CRADLE Tree Cube” was built. It’s a tree 63.0652, 18.3419 hut with windows that frame Kulberget the lake, forest and sun set. OVER THE EDGE In Naske you can find “Kom6 2 . 8 1 1 7, 1 8 . 0 4 9 0 ponerar” which was inspired by the old sawmill that closed Hålviken down in the late 1970s. In ÖrnMOTTE 6 3 .1 7 9 6 , 1 8 . 5 9 3 1 sköldsvik along the hiking trail Gulaleden is “A-Maze-Thing” Hålviken where you can see various HE views depending on where in 63.0346, 18.3851 the wind shelter you stand. Hålviken STRANDED L A S T Y E A R three more wind 6 2 . 8 0 2 4 , 1 8 .1 5 3 9 shelters were added to the collection. “He” is on VärnsHålviken berget in Docksta and visitors OFF-CENTERED 63.2561, 18.6388 can admire the land that has been lifted up from the sea from here. “Stranded”, by Rödhällorna in Lövvik, looks like a stranded ship. Close to Smötjärnarna you can find “Off-Centred”, a little cottage with room for two to spend the night. Why not spend a whole day visiting all nine wind shelters? You are guaranteed a fantastic day that will stimulate all of your senses. They are something special that has been created for people who are visiting or who live in the High Coast. – The wind shelters will be there forever. We have donated them to the public, and this makes them unique,” says Martin. //
Libjiesbåaole
Helena Byström, Herrgårdsparken
EXPERIENCE ART VALLEY Nätterlundstiftelsen, a memorial foundation, has adorned this part of the High Coast with no fewer than 30 artworks. These works form a culture trail starting at the islands of Ulvön and stretching through the Nätra river valley, offering not only art and culture, but also magnificent nature experiences. The central attraction in the valley is Herrgårdsparken, an art and nature park in Köpmanholmen with something for everyone. www.highcoastartvalley.com
ÖRNSKÖLDSVIK MUSEUM & ART GALLERY – A PLACE TO VISIT FOR ALL AGES!
With both art and cultural history. On Saturdays and holidays, everyone is welcome to create in the culture lab. You can find out more about exhibitions and activities at ornskoldsvik.se/museum
ÖRNSKÖLDSVIKS
MUSEUM & KONSTHALL
www.ornskoldsvik.se/museum
GUIDE TO
/ ALLEMANSRÄTTEN
The Swedish lifestyle EQUALITY, SUSTAINABILITY AND LAGOM wo r d s
Elin Holmberg
M A K E S U R E YO U A L S O D I S C O V E R … Swedish fika. You won’t have to spend much time in Sweden before you come across the concept “fika”. Swedes love to fika – and drink nine (!) kilos of coffee per person each year. And they love a bit of baking with their coffee – the combination of the two makes up the concept of “fika”. A typical cake in Sweden is the Princess Cake, look for the large round green cake in every bakery you pass. But don’t be surprised if you meet someone for a “fika” and there is no coffee or cake involved, “fika” can also mean just spending time together. Check out the hashtag #swedishfika on instagram to get a feel for the phenomenon.
PREPARE YOURSELF FOR IMPRESSIVE NATURE, LIGHT NIGHTS AND A FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE, AND learn how to ‘fika’. WHEN YOU’RE PLANNING A VISIT TO SWEDEN, IT MIGHT BE A GOOD IDEA TO LEARN A BIT ABOUT THE COUNTRY AND ITS PEOPLE BEFORE YOU LEAVE HOME. by Swedish nature that is magnificent, untouched and accessible for everyone. Yes, you read that correctly! Open to everyone. The Swedish Right of Public Access is totally unique and gives all people the chance to get out into nature. So take the chance! Swedes love outdoor life and nature and when you meet them in the forest or on the trail, expect them to be friendly but reserved. There’s nothing wrong with small talk, it’s just that Swedes are no good at it. Swedes can be helpful, but not particularly forthcoming. In central and northern Sweden summer nights are long and light. The locals here are known to be both calm, trustworthy and a little shy. They love spending time together around an open campfire – grilling sausages is a typical Swedish pastime which is carried out all year round. This can also be done indoors; many Swedes have open fireplaces inside their homes. B E P R E PA R E D T O B E I M P R E S S E D
for their innovative design, fashion and music. Most of them love to watch “mello”, the competition that determines who will represent Sweden in the European Song Contest. This is treated more or less as a festival for the entire month of February. We are very proud of our world-famous music artists such as Abba, Avicii, Roxette, Europe and Björn Skifs. A less well-known artist is Tomas Ledin, a singer with roots in the High Coast and songs about the World Heritage Site. SW E D E S A R E K N OW N
THE SPOT CHALLENGE
If Swedes have nothing to talk about, they’ll talk about the weather. And nothing can get in the way of their traditions. Such as the “Crayfish Premier” in August where they sing songs and feast on crayfish whilst wearing colourful hats and drinking schnapps. Become an expert in all that is typically Swedish! Look out for these elements and brag about your knowledge of Swedish lifestyle and culture.
Swedes love their holidays and festivals. Celebrating Lucia in December is important – the season needs light, joy, goodness and music. Midsummer represents the start of summer and is celebrated with a traditional smorgasbord where pickled herring plays a central role. Take the opportunity to dance around the Maypole, it is a key feature of Swedish culture. Some Swedes like to dress up in traditional folk costumes that are the same colour as the Swedish flag. Learn the word “hen” which means both he and she. That “hen” has become fully accepted says a lot about Sweden being one of the most gender-equal countries in the world. Swedes are proud of how far they have come on this front, and many men and women try hard to share the responsibilities of home. Swedish dads are among the best in the world for taking paternity leave. L I K E T H E E N V I R O N M E N T , sustainability and recycling. They sort their recyclables and hate throwing food away. Shopping for second-hand clothes and furniture is seen as modern and positive. In the summer, thousands of flea markets are held and this is seen by Swedes as a bit of a national symbol. As a tourist in the High Coast, you will have many chances to find a treasure or two among someone else’s off-casts. Dare to test fermented Baltic herring! It is northern Sweden’s national dish and really is delicious if it is served with the right accompaniments. Don’t let the smell put you off, it tastes great! // SWEDES
Meatballs Small red cottages Swedish mulled wine Cinnamon buns Kaviar Criminal drama series
Sauna Schnapps Moose Reindeer Bears Volvo
Welcome to a unique meeting place
Restaurang
Björkudden Hotell & Avnjut middagis isituated vår restaurang i en trevlig Restaurang right herrgårdsmiljö! Björkudden har lång by the river Ångermanälven in a captivating antique tradition av att ordna både födelsedagsfester, house in the High Coast. bröllop, studentfester samt stora The hotel has a long history företagsevent. of arranging both weddings and birthday partys. There are 13 hotel rooms and 14 Bed & Breakfast rooms and a renowned a la carté Nu har virestaurant. nyrenoverade lokaler
Konferenslokaler
Restaurang
Hotel High Coast is a beautiful
Välkommenplace till for vårconferences a la carté restaurang med utsiktand över Högakustenbron entertainment with a fantastic och naturen där älvview blirover tillthe hav. High Coast Bridge. In our restaurant you can enjoy fine food and drinks with high quality. We also have vår hemsida hittar du våra an extensive program of evenemang Temaweekends entertainment, show nights, med mat och dryck, stand-up comedians and theme nights. Stand Up, Mordmysterium
Nöjeskalender På
med ny teknik, vedeldad bastu vid älvkanten samt brygga för bad.
In our scenic surroundings you find walking trails, meditation path, frisbeegolf, Jacuzzi, an outdoor sauna by the riverside and kayak rental. By the riverside there are several magic places for fishing or just to enjoy the sunset.
Konferera mitt i Höga Kusten Very welcome!
En aktivitet till er konferens kan vara Segway, 5-rätters avsmakningsmeny book i ng an d i n f or m ation eller 1000 meter huvudbry. b o o k i n g an d i n f o rm at i o n +46 613-501 15 Prisexempel: Lunch www.bjorkudden.se
+46 613-72 22 70
konferensmiddag till lunchkonferens inkl 2-rätterswww.hotellhoga-kusten.se samt logi i tvåbäddsrum 1288:-
DISCOVER
/ AUTUMN
The Golden Season PHOTOS
Håkan Nordström
WO R D S
Elin Holmberg
AUTUMN IS THE HUNTING SEASON IN THE HIGH COAST. AND WE don’t only hunt moose and bears, BUT ALSO BERRIES AND MUSHROOMS! THERE IS ENDLESS TREASURE TO BE FOUND IF YOU JUST LOOK FOR IT. AND WHILE YOU’RE OUT THERE, MAKE THE MOST OF THE COLOURS AND CRISP, CLEAN AIR
T
he High Coast is a popular place in the summer and winter. But the autumns are also worth a visit– the colours and the crisp clean air are reason enough. The weather is cooler, which makes for pleasant hiking. We are experts on campfires here and you won’t have to go far before you find a campfire site in the forest. When the night falls and the air is cooler, nothing is better than gathering around a campfire listening to it crackle and burn. There are countless hiking trails in the area and popular trails include the High Coast Trail and the World Heritage Trail. When you are hiking, you will notice the amazing colours. Many would say that the High Coast is at its most beautiful in the autumn. If you have some luck, you will also come across mushrooms and berries as you walk. Of the 10,000 mushroom species found in Scandinavia, only 100 are edible. So make sure you know what you are doing when you gather mushrooms. Chanterelle are seen as a safe bet by many. Their colour and smell are easily recognised. Even other mushrooms are easily recognised, if you know what you are looking for. Local delicacies “Fårticka”, “lammticka” and “brödticka” are worth getting to know, they are white and brownish grey and grow in groups. Karl Johan mushrooms are also popular and grow well after warm, dry summers.
DISCOVER
/ AUTUMN
You have to use your senses, feel them and smell them. Ann Christine Strömberg Holmlund is a mushroom expert in Västernorrland and holds regular mushrooming courses. “It is a good idea to join a study circle if you are new to mushrooming. Or join a mushrooming club,” she advises. She thinks that you should look for more than just chantarelles, keep your eyes open
for other sorts of mushroom as well. “It is more fun and your basket gets fuller too. For example, funnel chanterelles and yellow foot mushrooms are also worth learning to recognise. You need to put on your “mushrooming glasses” to be able to see what you are looking for. Mushrooming involves a lot of walking, looking around and taking notes. You have to use your senses, feel them and smell them. This is how you can build up knowledge that can be useful the next time you are out as well. The forests along the High Coast are often rich in raspberries, lingonberries (cowberries), blueberries and cloudberries as well. The Nilsson family, who run Gårdsbutiken at the foot of Själandsklinten, are known
M A K E S U R E YO U A L S O D I S C O V E R … ...autumn fishing in the High Coast. If you are interested in fishing, then you have most likely heard of Nipstadsfisket in Sollefteå. “Salmon fishing in the middle of town” as it is called, started in the early 1970s and is widely talked about today. When the salmon start running, anglers are standing waiting with their rods at the ready. But the High Coast has so much more fishing. S A L M O N – Salmon are most easily
caught by spin fishing, and trolling with spoon bait, wobblers and flies. In the autumn, spin fishing with wobblers and spin flies is best. Your have a chance of getting a good salmon in the Ångermanälven river along the 10-km stretch downstream from the power station in Sollefteå. S E A T R O U T – You can fish for sea
trout all year round, but the conditions are best from September until the water freezes over. Sea trout come further into the archipelago the colder the water gets in the autumn. Cast fishing is best using spoon bait, jiggers, wobblers or tube flies.
P I K E – Use large spoon lures and
P E R C H – Perch are our most com-
wobblers for the best chance of catching a pike. The best time of year to fish for pike is during the spring and autumn, and the biting time is all day. Pike are fished in lakes and running water, plus in the shallower inlets along the coast.
mon and popular sport fish. The best way to catch a perch is with a float, hook and worm. Perch can be found in most lakes and running water, plus in the shallower inlets along the coast.
THE BEST FINDS KARLJOHAN
Grow in pine and leafy forests, as well as mixed forests, all over Sweden. The cap is light to dark brown. The under surface of the cap has grey/white tubes in younger examples but they become more yellow or greenish yellow in fullygrown mushrooms. Karl Johan mushrooms grow well after warm summers, and they can grow very fast. They often grow in several “surges” in a season. Can be mistaken for, for example, a reddish brown mushroom called rödbrun stensopp in Swedish, which is also a very good eating mushroom. CHANTERELLE
Grow in pine and leafy forests, as well as mixed forests, all over Sweden. The entire mushroom is egg-yolk yellow. The top of the cap is smooth, and often wavy. The under surface of the cap has gills that run down the stem. The mushroom’s flesh is pale yellow. It can be found from June/July until late autumn. BLACK CHANTERELLE
Often found among oaks and hazelnut trees, but also in pine forests. The top of the cap is black and has small scales. The cap’s underside is somewhat wrinkly and grey/blue-grey in colour. The stem is hollow and the lower part is black. Can be mixed up with several inedible mushrooms so be careful.
for sourcing a lot of their ingredients in the forest. Their shop and restaurant are closed in the autumn and winter, but they are toiling away in the kitchen preparing jams, jellies and fruit drinks. Delicacies are their area of expertise, and David Nilsson who as good as grew up in the forest foraging for berries, has good advice for anyone heading out into the forest. “Don’t go mushrooming alone and always take water and snacks. Make sure you have good shoes on and extra bags in case you strike gold. If you are going berry picking, here are a few guidelines that may help: Lingonberries grow best among the pine trees, blueberries prefer fir trees. If you are after cloudberries, you need to find wet, mossy terrain. Cloudberries are both good for you and delicious, but they can be hard to find. And when you are out and about in the forests and terrain in the region, you have a good chance of coming across wild raspberries too. Enjoy it out there!”
You’ll need good shoes and extra bags in case you strike gold.
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FOCUS ON
/ WINTERSEASON
Winter If you’re lucky, you will see the northern lights when you visit the High Coast. The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, are a natural light display that, together with the fantastic wilderness in the World Heritage Site, create an experience that can only be described as magic. The Northern Lights season usually stretches from August to April.
blue sky, fresh crisp air, and new snow on the ground. Cross country skiing, alpine skiing, dog sledding, ice fishing, ice skating – the list of possible activities can be as long as your arm and you will never be short of things to do here in the World Heritage Site in the winter. Few winter activities are as peaceful as ski touring. The best way to enjoy this is to pack your touring skis, lunch, an axe and something to light a fire with. If you are lucky and there is new snow, you will be making fresh tracks all day long – and this just adds to the feeling of freedom. There are several areas suitable for ski touring to choose between: Nätra Fjällskog, Rutberget in Örnsköldsvik, Rotsiden in Nordingrå and Fälleberget in Härnösand are among our hottest tips. I M AG I N E A C L E A R
a bit of speed and would rather go alpine skiing there are several ski slopes in the area such as I F YO U L OV E
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Solberget in Örnsköldsvik Municipality, Hallstaberget in Sollefteå and Vårdkasberget in Härnösand. Hiking with or without snowshoes in the winter is another great experience. Winter hiking in Skuleskogen National Park is a fantastic choice and if you want you can rent snowshoes making it even easier to explore places off the beaten track. Do you want to try your hand at fishing? Just find some ice and drill a hole: imagine pulling up an Arctic char that you can have for dinner the same evening. But make sure you are familiar with how to stay safe on the ice before you go out. The freedom and excitement it gives and feeling of closeness to nature attracts many skaters out onto the ice. And it is a fantastic experience to cover vast distances in no time at all when the conditions are right. The High Coast has great skating when the ice has formed on the lakes and along the coast. Some years, our entire editorial team here at Magazine Höga Kusten have
If you are lucky and there is new snow, you will be making fresh tracks all day long
place to go crosscountry skiing! There are countless trails that are varied and of a high standard. The conditions here are so good that the area has produced a number of successful crosscountry skiers such as Ebba Andersson, Frida Karlsson, and long distance skier Britta KU S T E N Johansson Norgren. One of the A most successful clubs is Sollefteå Skidor, they have always produced world-class cross country skiers. And their work with both amateurs and the professionals continues. // G
H Ö G A K U S T E N I S A FA N TA S T I C
N VÄ
to try ”mushing” your own dog sled, or simply getting comfortable on the sled and be taken for a ride? A day on a dog sled is indescribable – it simply has to be experienced. Take the chance to experience our winter wonderland in this unique way. After a quick briefing with your instructor, you are ready to get started. You get the chance to meet your dogs, help them WO U L D YO U L I K E
into their harnesses and into position and then you are off. The art of mushing is a lot of fun. There are various trails suitable for different ages and levels of experience and a knowledgeable guide will always be at hand.
HÖ
skated from Örnsköldsvik all the way out to the island of Trysunda and even out to Ulvön. The ice usually forms first inland where the lakes in Gålsjöskogen and Nätra Fjällskog are popular. If you don’t have your own equipment, there are several places that you can rent skates and safety equipment from. If you are planning an adventure, we recommend that you are familiar with the safety aspects of spending time on ice. Make sure you take the time to learn about your equipment, gather knowledge from experienced people and always take someone with you.
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Foto: Pelle Kronestedt
Out of the Sea rose the mountain
The rock carvings at Nämforsen
Women died, men condemned
Hiking in Höga Kusten
At naturum Höga Kusten, by the foot of Skuleberget, you can enjoy the exhibitions about the High Coast World heritage site and Skuleskogens National Park. Let naturum inspire you to discover the treasures of the High Coast.
Sweden’s largest and most beautiful rock carving site. Exhibitions • Shop • Café • Free admission The museum is open from 10:30–17:15, Jun 15–Aug 15; free guided tours of the petroglyphs at 12:00 & 14:30 (closed Mondays & Midsummer) • The rock carving site is always open. Nipvägen 7, Näsåker.
The Witch Museum tells the story of the brief but intense period of witch hysteria known as “the Great Uproar,” which lasted from 1668-1676. A total of 71 people were beheaded and burned on Häxberget (“Witch Mountain”) in Torsåker Parish, in Kramfors Municipality. Open all year round. Refreshments available.
Three special islands and one national park.
+46 622 106 30 www.namforsen.com info@namforsen.com
+46 612 856 01 www.haxmuseet.se info@hola.se
Exhibitions Guided Tours Program Café +46 613 700 200 www.naturumhogakusten.se info@naturumhogakusten.se
Coastal trip, hiking and boating at the World Heritage Site 22-26/6, 10-14/8,24-28/8 Convenient accommodations and luggage transport! Adventurous day hikes in Skuleskogen national park 10/6, 10/7, 16/7, 28/7, 6/8, 2/9 + 46 70 33 99 914 www.hogakustenwalkabout.se hkwalkabout@gmail.com
Sollefteå Music and Culture festival Traditional and contemporary music Workshops | Poetry | Ecological food Seminars | Nature camping A festival in the forest for the whole family! Atop one of the steep hills surrounding the river Ångermanälven is where you find the festival site – located in the scenic village of Näsåker by the great rapid Nämforsen.
+46 622 107 89 www.urkult.se kontoret@urkult.se
Sollefteå Camping SollefteåRisön Camping Risön At Ångermanälven Beach, within walking distance from city center.till centrum. Sollefteå camping vid Ångermanälvens strand medthe gångavstånd A kid-friendly campground with a wealth of fun activities: Barnvänlig camping med mycket aktiviteter: • Swimming pools • Go-carts • Pooler GoCart Klättring Kanot/kajak Hoppborg Minibilar BMX-bana Tennis • Canoes/Kayaks • Bouncy castle • Mini cars • • Tennis • Golf • QuickStop • BMX coursemed • fullständiga På området finns även Camping Cupolens bar och restaurang rättigheter och en –uteservering medbar fantastisk utsikt. with a fantastic view. Cupolen a fully licensed and restaurant Welcome to us, we are open April 29-October 16!
+46 620-100 21 www.solleftea-camping.se 0620-68 25 42 solleftea.camping@telia.com www.solleftea-camping.se solleftea.camping@telia.com
HOLIDAY IN SIGHT? SUMMER PRICE! Double rooms from SEK
799 per night!*
Holidays for families or pleasant weekends for couples, at Quality Hotel Sundsvall there is room for all. With our downtown location, you’re always close to shopping and fun. The Himlabadet water park and the magical adventure of a summer visit to the Trolska Skogen forest are just a few of the great nearby attractions. Our nice family rooms have a double bed and a sofa bed/ extra bed for one person. Need more beds? We also have adjoining ”teen rooms” for just SEK 500 per night.
Read more at our website qsundsvall.se or call us on +46 60-16 00 02 * summer rate applies 15/6 - 21/8, limited number of rooms.
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2 000 M OUTDOOR STORE AND OUTLET
örnsköldsvik
brogatan 141, fjällrävenhuset tel: 0660-103 40 | mon–fri 10–18 | sat 10–16 | sun 11–16 www.naturkompaniet.se