12 best things to do in Höga Kusten

What is it? Skuleberget is Höga Kusten’s most iconic mountain and one of the World Heritage Site’s most recognisable landmarks. Think steep slopes, hiking trails, climbing – and views worth every metre of elevation. You’ll also find the visitor centre Naturum Höga Kusten, FriluftsByn and Naturscen Skuleberget here.

Why go? For that full-on Höga Kusten feeling. The fact that the 286-metre-high Skuleberget was just a small islet 10,000 years ago is clear proof of the effects of land uplift. If you’re after a thrill, tackle the Via Ferrata climbing route along the cliff face, or hike or take the cable car to the summit.

Don’t miss: The view from the top, of course. Then wind down from the day’s impressions at FriluftsByn’s outdoor terrace.

Getting there: Just north of Docksta, right by the E4.

What is it? Mannaminne in Häggvik, Nordingrå is one of Höga Kusten’s most unexpected stops – an open-air museum, artwork and cultural village in one. It was the life’s work of multi-creator Anders Åberg and feels more like an expedition than a traditional museum.

Why go? Because Mannaminne is exactly as strange as people say. This is an outing for all ages. In this eccentric cultural village you’ll find everything from a Norwegian stave church and an accordion museum to a coffee roastery and trams. And yes, there’s also a mammoth and a Saab Draken jet. Questions?

Don’t miss: Wandering around aimlessly and letting Mannaminne surprise you.

Address: Häggvik 109, 873 99 Nordingrå. Admission: 180 SEK for adults, free for children up to 18.

What is it? The just over 130-kilometre-long High Coast Trail is one of Sweden’s finest hiking routes. Stretching from Hornöberget in the south to Örnsköldsvik (or ‘Ö-vik’, as locals say) in the north, it offers troll forests, coastal views, lookout peaks and a landscape that shows Höga Kusten at its very best.

Why go? Because nowhere else in Sweden can you hike this high and this close to the coast. You move through a dramatic coastal landscape with the sea always within reach. And you don’t have to complete the entire trail – many people opt for a day hike.

Don’t miss: Take a detour to a viewpoint or a swimming spot along the way. The extra metres are worth it.

The trail runs between Hornöberget and Örnsköldsvik. Hiking season is from June to October, but early autumn offers the most beautiful colours.

What is it? Hernö Gin Hotel in Härnösand is one of Höga Kusten’s most talked-about places to stay. You’ll be based on Kanaludden by the water, with a restaurant, gin bar and relaxation area under one roof – and the World Heritage nature just around the corner.

Why go? To treat yourself to a slightly more luxurious base during your trip. A sleek stop for those who want to combine Höga Kusten’s nature experiences with good food, comfortable beds and the occasional G&T. Here you can unwind while staying close to everything Härnösand has to offer. The hotel restaurant Southside serves à la carte dishes with northern Swedish flavours, as well as pizzas with local names.

Don’t miss: Combine your stay with a gin tasting at Hernö Gin’s distillery in Dala outside Härnösand. Hernö Gin has been named the world’s best gin several times – and who are you to argue?

Address: Kanaludden 2, 871 31 Härnösand. Standard rooms from 1,800 SEK per night. The hotel often offers ‘Relax packages’ or weekend deals including dinner and spa access, usually from 2,400 SEK per person. 

What is it? Höga Kusten is home to many farm shops, garden centres and bakeries where the stop itself is half the fun. Think food, produce and gifts with a strong local connection – such as flatbread, honey, goat’s cheese and locally caught fish.

Why go? To experience Höga Kusten through your taste buds. Hiking, viewpoints and boat trips are all well and good, but when you want a coffee and a rest for your feet, nothing beats a personal farm café. Taste, shop, pause.

Don’t miss: The best flatbread can be found in the shop at restaurant 1923. Another favourite is stopping by the farm shop outside Nordingrå – shop, café, restaurant and greenhouse in one. If you’ve still got energy after your fika, hike up Själandsklinten right next to the shop.

Address: Gårdsbutiken, Själand 116, Nordingrå. Find more shops at https://www.hogakusten.com/sv/mat-dryck/gardsbutiker.

What is it? Murberget open-air museum – ‘northern Sweden’s Skansen’ – is one of the country’s largest museums of its kind. Its historical settings give the whole family an insight into everyday life and buildings in Västernorrland in the past. Step into a medieval church, an 18th-century manor or a trading shop from the same period. There’s both an open-air area to wander around and a museum with exhibitions and a shop.

Why go? Because it’s an easy and very pleasant way to add some culture between hikes and viewpoint stops. Murberget suits both families and anyone looking for a calmer break in Härnösand.

Don’t miss: The Forest Sámi settlement, showing what a forest Sámi homestead might have looked like in the 19th century.

Address: Murbergsvägen 31, 871 50 Härnösand. Admission: free.

What is it? The High Coast Bridge is the majestic suspension bridge that proudly stretches across the Ångerman River. Connecting the municipalities of Kramfors and Härnösand, it has come to symbolise the entire World Heritage Site since its inauguration in 1997.

Why go? Because it’s a sight you can’t really avoid – even if you tried. Not least because the E4 crosses it. Luckily, it lives up to the hype, offering both grand views and a dose of architectural history.

Don’t miss: Combine your photo stop with lunch, fika or an ice cream at Hotel Höga Kusten next door.

Hotel Höga Kusten is located at Hornöberget, Sandöverken.

What is it? Ulvön lies 30 kilometres south of Örnsköldsvik. Here you’ll find that classic archipelago feeling: red boathouses, beautiful sea inlets and historic fishing villages. Ulvön is known for fermented herring fishing and was once the largest fishing village in northern Sweden, something Ulvö Museum reveals.

Why go? To see a different side of Höga Kusten than you get from land. A perfect stop for strolling around the harbour, going for walks and enjoying good food in a Saltkråkan-style setting.

Don’t miss: Walk up to Lotsberget for panoramic views over Ulvöhamn and the archipelago.

Ferries depart from places such as Ullånger or Köpmanholmen. In summer, boats run daily. Tickets cost 320 SEK return if bought at the quay, cheaper if booked in advance. Read more and plan your trip at https://www.mfulvon.se/biljetter-och-priser.

What is it? The now world-famous brand Fjällräven has its roots here in Höga Kusten. Fjällräven Outlet is located in the same building as the brand’s former factory, just south of Örnsköldsvik, and is part of Naturkompaniet’s large store with an outlet section.

Why go? Because you’re already in the right part of the country. Fjällräven has strong ties to Örnsköldsvik, making this a natural stop if you want to upgrade your hiking wardrobe or pick up past collections at low prices.

Don’t miss: Take a detour into Ö-vik while you’re in the area.

Address: Brogatan 141, Örnsköldsvik. Open weekdays 10.00–18.00, Saturdays 10.00–16.00 and Sundays 11.00–16.00.

What is it? Not all sights in Höga Kusten come with large car parks and clear signage. Sometimes it’s a four-kilometre stretch of rocky shoreline where you can cool off after a day of sightseeing. Rotsidan’s smooth diabase rocks are a nature reserve and one of the locals’ favourite spots. You can hardly get closer to the sea than this.

Why go? To experience Höga Kusten’s unique geology from the front row. Stark and dramatic at the same time. And honestly – who’s ever said no to a cup of coffee on sun-warmed rocks?

Don’t miss: Combine your visit with a hike along the World Heritage Trail, which passes here.

From Nordingråvallen, drive via Häggvik, Kåsta and Fällsvik to the reserve’s car park, where a wide path leads down to the rocks. You can also park at Barsta harbour and follow the World Heritage Trail on foot.

What is it? Paradiset is a complex with an adventure pool, spa and fitness area in central Örnsköldsvik. There are water slides, lagoons and family pools – as well as a spa area if you prefer relaxation over adrenaline.

Why go? Because Höga Kusten doesn’t have to be experienced in hiking boots. Paradiset is a great break for families, tired legs and rainy days.

Don’t miss: The mix of play and relaxation. Let the kids burn off energy in the water park while you take turns recharging in the spa area.

Address: Lasarettsgatan 15, Örnsköldsvik. Admission to the adventure pool: 125 SEK (free for ages 0–2, discounts for 65+).

What is it? High Coast Distillery in Bjärtrå is one of Sweden’s most well-known whisky distilleries, with an unbeatable location by the Ångerman River. There’s a visitor centre, whisky bar and restaurant.

Why go? Because it’s a popular stop when you want to photograph something other than sea and mountains – with something good in your glass. Even if you’re not a whisky fan, there’s plenty to enjoy here; the overall experience alone makes it worth the detour. You can also stay right by the river in one of the distillery’s glamping tents, giving you a close-to-nature feel despite sleeping in a real bed.

Don’t miss: Book a guided tour or tasting to make the most of your visit. If you’re short on time, dinner and river views at Restaurant 63°N go a long way.

Getting there: Sörviken, Bjärtrå. A full experience including lunch at 63°N, a guided distillery tour and whisky tasting, dinner, an overnight stay in a glamping tent and a wilderness breakfast by the fire costs around 2,700 SEK per person.