Nordanstig between coast, forest and cultural history

Explore Nordanstig along long routes between the coast and the forested interior. Along the Kustleden, sandy beaches, cliffs, forests, fishing villages, industrial landscapes and ancient monuments alternate. Vast inland forests evoke a sense of wilderness; the landscape also includes rural valleys, summer farms, viewpoints and boat tours. When planning your stay, consider whether hiking trails, nature or cultural sites will be the focus of your trip.

Routes between the coast and the highlands

The Kustleden is 62 km long. It runs from Kalkungsviken, north of Oxsand, to Nordanstig and continues south to Sågtäkten, south of Strömsbruk. Another long route is Vallstigen, which runs for about 63 km from the outdoor swimming pool in Hassela to the harbor at Norrfjärden. At 62 and about 63 kilometers, the two routes are similar in length, but their stated start and end points differ. Check current trail conditions before setting out.

Vallstigen passes eleven summer farms and climbs from sea level to 330 m at Västansjökullen. The facilities and options described include shelters, basic rest areas, and opportunities for swimming and camping. Access and facilities may change, so check the current conditions along the trail in advance.

For a shorter walk, try the interactive tour at Trolska Skogen, which is about 1.5 km long. This theatrical experience for the whole family takes visitors through the forest at their own pace, where they encounter various woodland creatures. The route may change, and the experience operates seasonally. Plan your visit accordingly.

Coastal landscapes and forest nature

The nature reserves showcase a variety of landscapes. Vattingsmalarna is characterized by coastal boulder fields, beach terraces, storm beach ridges and pine heath. The coast provides habitats for seabirds and wading birds. In Dammtjärn Nature Reserve, dry forest and swamp forest lie alongside wooded and open wetlands, forest streams and pools. It is also home to old spruce swamp forest, around 150 years old, with hanging lichens.

Gnarpskaten combines a coastal landscape with archaeological remains: its landforms include extensive boulder fields, prominent storm beach ridges, a sandy beach and windblown sand dunes. A large burial mound from the Stone Age lies in the central part. Tosskär has several Iron Age burial grounds, including a larger field with around 30 graves. Vitörarna Nature Reserve consists of two larger islands and smaller skerries; forests, boulder fields, coastal meadows, rocky shores and sea define this landscape.

Cultural history and experiences

More than 2,000 axes are on display at the Gränsfors Axe Museum. They include a stone axe around 3,500 years old; there are also models made in Gränsfors before and after the forge was founded. The collection illustrates both the tool’s long history and the development of the local blacksmithing tradition.

The Kulturstigen in Sörfjärden is a cultural trail about 3 km long, with 21 information stations. They cover the area’s industrial, fishing, agricultural and settlement history. Near Sindra, a nature trail runs along the power station canal and passes the remains of the former log driving operation. There is also a power station dam and a bridge to a natural area on the eastern shore of Storsjön, with views across the entire lake.

Ersk-Matsgården comprises 15 buildings, each with its own purpose. They include a water-powered facility with a saw and shingle planer, as well as a mill with a flax-processing workshop driven by a large waterwheel. The living farm is set in a 19th-century environment and offers livestock, guided tours and themed days; the visitor program is seasonal. During the summer season, visitors to Ersk-Matsgården in Hassela can sample traditional, old-fashioned dishes, including an oat porridge dish, pancakes with pork, blood bread with white sauce and fried bread. Nordanstig also has several art halls and galleries, including venues in historically interesting buildings and spaces. If you want to visit a particular exhibition, check the relevant program.

Getting there and planning your stay

Nordanstig can be reached by car, boat, train or bus. Regional trains from Gävle/Hudiksvall and Sundsvall stop in Gnarp; there are also numerous local bus connections. Check timetables before you travel. Visiting boats can use the guest harbors in Stocka and Mellanfjärden; harbor services and access may change. If you are looking for a hotel in Nordanstig, consider your main plans alongside the travel options and choose the focus of your stay accordingly.

Discover more destinations: Gnarp, Bergsjö, Hassela, Strömsbruk, Jättendal, Harmånger, Ilsbo, Ockelbo.

See the broader travel overview: Gävleborg.