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Europe Sweden Umeå Do & See Norrbyskär Islands

Overview

Norrbyskär Islands

The guide was updated: 2023-12-04

Norrbyskär is an archipelago with a fascinating history, located 40 km south of Umeå. At the turn of the century, Europe's largest steam sawmill was located here. Today, it's an idyllic spot offering experiences for the whole family. Enjoy delicious food and stay in a manor-like setting at Hotel Norrbyskär. A passenger ferry, with multiple trips daily during the summer, connects the island to Norrbyn.

Useful Information

Website: www.visitnorrbyskar.se

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Dog Sled

Dog Sled

A trip with a dog team, wrapped up in warm blankets under the northern lights, is a superb way of experiencing the countryside of Norrland. There's a good chance you’ll encounter an elk or a reindeer, too. There are four companies that offer dog sledding tours: Hedlunda Husky (www.hedlundahusky.se), Granö Beckasin (granobeckasin.com), River Lake Huskies (www.teamissa.se) and Aurora Borealis Adventures (auroraborealis.nu).

Guitars the Museum

Guitars the Museum

Umeå brothers Samuel and Michael Åhdén possess one of the world’s largest privately owned collections of guitars. In 2014, the whole world got a chance to see it. You can visit the experience-based, interactive exhibition of electric guitars, basses, amps and music accessories at Umeå Guitar Museum. The museum houses about 500 exhibits altogether. Alongside the permanent exhibition, the museum arranges lectures, temporary exhibitions and presentations of new developments. World stars will also visit the museum during the year and hold ‘clinics’ — open guitar lessons.

Bildmuseet

Bildmuseet

In recent years, Bildmuseet has established itself as one of the country’s leading museums for photography and the visual arts. Painting, sculpture, drawings, graffiti, video and installations, but also photojournalism, design, architecture and the world of scientific images are presented in about 15 exhibitions per year. The museum's new seven-story building enjoys phenomenal views. Along with its shop and café the museum is by the Ume river.

Västerbottens Museum

Västerbottens Museum

The permanent exhibitions at the Västerbotten Museum delve into the county's ancient history, cultural heritage, settler life and reindeer husbandry. It also houses a remarkable photographic collection of Sune Jonsson, capturing the essence of the Norrland agricultural landscape. In the summer, the outdoor museum at Gammlia buzzes with activity. Historical buildings, relocated from various parts of the county, together with period-costumed cottage hosts and farm animals, create an authentic atmosphere. Three different Sami settlements have been recreated at Gammlia. In the winter, visitors can explore the permanent exhibitions and wander through the grounds.

Umedalens Sculpture Park

Umedalens Sculpture Park

Skulpturparken, which is located in the former hospital compound in Umedalen, is considered to be one of Europe’s most distinguished sculpture parks and is also one of Västerbottens most visited sites in the summer. More than 150 Swedish and international artists has since the start in 1994 exhibited their works in Umedalen Skulptur, an exhibition that is organized every summer. Today there are also 26 permanent works in the park. Skulpturparken also has a garden landscape in connection with the IKSU Spa, Umeå’s so-called cultural spa. The garden is created by one of Sweden’s famous landscaping artists, Ulf Nordfjell.

Women's History Museum

Women's History Museum

The Women's History Museum is the only one of its kind in Sweden. This museum aims to bring up the role of women in historical narratives, highlighting structures and ideas surrounding masculinity and femininity. It's set to be a dynamic museum that encourages repeat visits. The Women's History Museum seeks to surprise, challenge perspectives, and offer a fresh take on various issues. It's a space for action, laughter and debate!

Elk House

Elk House

Elk House in Bjurholm, a mere 45 minutes from Umeå, offers the unique opportunity to get up close with the 'king of the forest'. Ever thought about petting or feeding an elk? Here's your chance. The farm also produces elk cheese, which is, of course, available for purchase. Bookings are required in winter.

Ume River Valley

Ume River Valley

Ume River Valley, with roads and trails following the Ume River, forms a popular excursion route that winds through a beautiful cultural landscape. Enjoy the rushing waters, lush forests, stunning views, and a wealth of attractions rich in history, art, and culture. Whether you're on a bike, on foot, or in a car, there's plenty to marvel at.

GSA Gallery

GSA Gallery

GSA Gallery (Gallery Andersson / Sandström) is situated in the old hospital area of Umedalen and specializes in displaying international contemporary art, with a particular emphasis on sculpture. For more information about the current exhibitions, take a look at their website.

Rafting on the Vindel River

Rafting on the Vindel River

Vindel River is one of the world's premier destinations for white-water rafting. Various companies offer everything from tranquil half-day excursions to extreme adventures, with prices varying greatly depending on the activity. For more information, visit one of their websites. This is a summer activity.

Olofsfors Ironworks

Olofsfors Ironworks

Olofsfors Ironworks is one of Sweden's most authentic and well-preserved ironworks environments. The foundry, forges, the manor house and residential buildings are in excellent condition and open for tours year-round. In the summer, the area is open daily, and several artists and craftsmen are at place in their workshops. The manor house now serves as a restaurant, and the old school building houses a café and shop.

Moose Safari

Moose Safari

The Moose Safari is an extraordinary opportunity to get up close with the 'king of the forest'. You'll have the chance to approach the moose closely and photograph it. Since there are bears are in the area, there's a chance the dogs might track one of them, turning it into a bear safari, too.

Holmön Island

Holmön Island

Holmöarna consists of a group of larger and smaller islands. The nature here is unique, with large areas of land and water protected as nature reserves. The birdlife is particularly abundant, especially around Stora Fjäderägg, which is also home to a bird station. The archipelago is also renowned for boat building.

Norrbyskär Islands

Norrbyskär Islands

Norrbyskär is an archipelago with a fascinating history, located 40 km south of Umeå. At the turn of the century, Europe's largest steam sawmill was located here. Today, it's an idyllic spot offering experiences for the whole family. Enjoy delicious food and stay in a manor-like setting at Hotel Norrbyskär. A passenger ferry, with multiple trips daily during the summer, connects the island to Norrbyn.

Gourmet Kayaking

Gourmet Kayaking

In collaboration with Skeppsvik Manor, Umekajak offers a complete taste and outdoor experience. First, immerse yourself in the invigorating sea air during a guided kayak tour in Skeppsvik's island-rich archipelago, followed by the manor's fantastic buffet.

UmeLagun

UmeLagun

UmeLagun is an outdoor pool located next to Nydalabadet, featuring a 25-meter lap pool. The family and adventure area includes lazy rivers, a children's lagoon, a family lagoon, whirlpools, a warm pool, and various water attractions. There are two large water slides, one straight and one spiral, both with a height that ensures a thrilling speed down into the pool. A kiosk is available on-site, along with nearby dining options.

Raft Adventure

Raft Adventure

Build your own raft out of timber and rope and let it take you downstream along the serene Ume River. Experience nature up close and personal. Let the endlessly bright summer nights of the north create a lifetime memory. Feel free to go ashore whenever you wish, wander through the forest, or rest in a picturesque clearing. Pull up on a beach for a swim, or fish whenever the mood strikes. Your guide will assist in building the raft. Choose to embark on a one, two, or seven-day rafting adventure. Sleep on the raft or in a tent, and if you like, a box packed with typical Västerbotten food can be provided for you. You'll cook your own meals over an open fire or on a portable stove.

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