Hemsön
Hemsön is Härnösand's largest island with lovely rocky beaches, unspoiled marshes and woodlands. There is Hemsö Fortress, Prästhushamn with a well-preserved fishing village and Sågsand with a lovely sandy beach.
Sunset at Hemsön
Northern archipelago
North of Härnösand is the island of Hemsön, beautifully situated in the Norrland archipelago. You can get here by car ferry, which runs between the mainland and the island daily and is free.
On the island is Prästhushamn, a well-preserved fishing village, which also has a shipyard that was in operation sometime during the 1850-60s. The island is well protected behind Kläffsön, a peninsula that the military left clear traces of with their radio masts.
In the middle of the island stands Hemsö's fine church from 1865, built entirely of wood with a tower and transept-like extensions to the choir.
Sågsand
Prästhushamn.
Hemsö Fortress
A top-secret underground fort was built deep in the rock on Hemsön. From here, 300 men would defend Sweden in the event of an attack. 15-meter high gun turrets are blasted into the rock. Above ground, only the pieces themselves are visible, with armor protection and camouflage netting. Built for SEK 1 billion, it was nuclear-protected with kilometer-long passages.
Today, the fortress is one of the High Coast's major tourist destinations.
The big cannons was defending the Swedish shoreline against the enemy.
From the restaurant you have a fantastic view of the sea.
Children in a military vehicle.
Kayak and MTB
Experience Hemsön from the water or via the many trails on the island. Hemsö Kajak och MTB rents out kayaks and bikes and offers tips on various excursions.
Hultom Mountain
From Hultomsberget you have a wonderful view all the way from Högbonden to Högakustenbron. There is an overnight cabin with a stove, a bunk bed and a solar panel. Outside there is a nice fireplace with wood on site. The trail up is beautiful and takes you through magical forest areas.
The trail starts a little north of Hultom and there are parking facilities. It then continues up a forest road and then winds into the forest. The road can be steep and rocky at times so you may need quite good balance to get up here!
Find the way
Hemsön is located north of Härnösand.
Here are some tips for other excursions
Excursions
Only 10 minutes from the center to downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and jogging trails. Here you will find several different trails and exercise tracks, a slalom slope, nature reserve, a viewing tower, restaurant and café. Vårdkasberget is worth a visit at any time of year.
Excursions
Smitingen is one of the most popular destinations on the High Coast, with over 100,000 visitors during the summer season. Not only is there a fantastic sea bath, but also beautiful and dramatic nature with caves, hiking trails and activities all year round.
Excursions
Are you curious about the rest of the High Coast? Here you will find all the tips you can think of on excursion destinations, activities and places worth a visit.