   Photos: Copyright © HälsingeTur Welcome to Hälsingland
Welcome to Hälsingland, one of the most exiting provinces in Sweden! In this part of Sweden you will find a broad choice of activities and interesting places to visit. Hälsingland is abundant in rivers, lakes, valleys, mountains, forests and last but not least, the most beautiful archipelago along the whole coastline. The nature is also characterised by many peninsulas, necks of land, so called "halsar". "Halsar" translated into English means necks and most people think that Hälsingland is named after this word. The first population settled down 6 000 years ago, as Hälsingland was an area rich in both fish and game. The value of the forests was discovered during the middle of the 19th century. The epoch of the timber industry began and in Ljusnan timber became more and more important. The tradition of wood, especially in the Voxna Valley, became strong and several companies are still producing products of wood. Textile also used to be one of the most important industries in Hälsingland but today the province is dominated by the timber industry. Hälsingland has always been well known for its handicrafts and there are few provinces that have been able to retain their culture like Hälsingland. Here you will find the most beautiful wall paintings as well as painted porches. Textile - mostly linen (which also explains why flax has been chosen as the provincial flower) and pottery are also two specialities of Hälsingland.  Musiclovers ought to visit Hälsingland as this area is well known for the folk music. Fiddlers and other musicians are often playing on different occasions. The dance tradition is also very spread out in this part of Sweden and Hälsingehambon - a famous dance show passing through cities and villages - is really worth watching. For those who like nature, Voxna Valley is the place to visit. This is the district where you can relax in genuine wilderness or in comfortable hotels in Alfta or in Edsbyn. A trip in a canoe will give you a wonderful experience of wilderness, either you prefer the wild rapids or the more slowly floating parts. If you like fishing, there are lots of opportunities, both in the river and in the great number of lakes in the area. There are also a great number of skilled craftsmen in the Voxna Valley. It is thanks to them that handicrafts are preserved and kept alive. If you decide to visit the Voxna Valley you must not forget to taste the famous "Ovanåkersbröd". This is thin unleavened bread with a very special taste, often served with home-made fresh cheese.  Useful information Quiz game Contents About... E-mail |