STØTT Top of Helgeland
Støtt, Norway
Støttveien 10, Støtt, Norway, 8159
Original Property Opened in 1897
Historic Hotels Worldwide member since 2023
In the south of Nordland county sits Helgeland, an Island that’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its white sandy beaches, legendary mountains, incredible animal life, midnight sun, northern lights sightings, and finally, its location inside the Arctic circle. Helgeland consists of different island communities, one of which is Støtt. It is there where STØTT Top of Helgeland hotel resides. Operated as a unique trading post in the 19th century, it is now a prime destination for travelers to visit and marvel at the natural beauty within the Arctic Circle.
With the fourth and fifth generations of families and locals continuing to develop the island of Støtt, much effort goes into the maintenance and hospitality found at STØTT Top of Helgeland. With most visitors to the island seeking adventure and chasing the northern lights, STØTT Top of Helgeland features stately accommodations and unique dining experiences showcasing local ingredients, making it a memorable stay for guests on the island.
Discover
- Discover the true Norwegian vernacular architecture of Støtt Top of Helgeland. The Norwegian vernacular building themes which are referred to as "byggeskikk” drew inspiration from generational construction techniques that dates back centuries. Most of Norwegian architecture was comprised of natural materials, having been constructed from logs, stone, and hearth. Many of these elements can be seen throughout the hotel, its design staying true to its origins and heritage.
- Gaze at the iconic medieval "stave church" design that has been eloquently interwoven to the structure. Stave churches were typically designed using wooden timber framing known as "post and lintel" which are widely spaced vertical posts that are supported by horizontal ones. The steep roofs and intricately laid beams characterize the overall design of stave churches and can be seen in some areas throughout the property.
- Take in the similarities of the Norwegian structure to that of conventional Romanesque style church that are seen throughout Europe. Many of the elements are the same as the architecture that was used to construct the buildings. Guided portals were prevalent in this style architecture and are connected to Norse iconography and local alpine landscapes which are seen throughout Støtt.
Explore
- Take a trip to the Kalsholmen lighthouse just outside Støtt. The lighthouse came into operation in 1916 but was destroyed by a hurricane. The one standing today alone on an island was completed in 1919 and remains uninhabited. Støtt Top of Helgeland offers tours that allow visitors to climb to the top of the lighthouse and admire the view out over the sea. The tour also includes a swim in the sea while the midnight sun sets on the horizon, making it a peaceful and memorable experience.
- Explore Hestmannen, or Hestmona as the locals call it. Hestmannen is a challenging and legendary mountain known for vigorous hikes and once-in-a-lifetime views. The mountain plays a central role in the Norland fairytales about trolls who froze to stone and became mountains along the Helgeland coast. Today, visitors are invited to make the trek up this ancient and legendary mountain with an accompanied guide and see why Helgeland is described as one of the world’s most beautiful coasts.
- Experience the Four Alps with Støtt Top of Helgeland’s trading post as starting base. These alps, known as The Meløyalps are familiar from a ski documentary that was filmed there. Visitors can join a tour to the majestic mountains and also experience wild areas of untouched nature. The guides decide which peaks are safe during the time of when the hikes take place as there are over five to choose. Some range from 571 m to 1,200 m above sea level. The tours can be challenging but are safe and can be adapted to fit any hikers' skill levels.
Experience
- Kayak on the Helgeland coast and take in all the breathtaking natural views the island and sea have to offer. The Helgeland coast consists of over 12,000 islands with clear blue water, white sandy beaches, midnight sun, and unique wildlife that make for an unforgettable experience. Under the expert guidance of an instructor, visitors can travel safely, kayaking to these dreamy locations throughout Helgeland.
- Experience one of Helgeland coasts’ most sought after and hikes to Rødøyløva. There lies the majestic mountain and once at the top, hikers are rewarded with an airy and spectacular view of the sea and islands. The breathtaking site of the archipelago is a favorite among those who complete the hike. Sherpa stairs have been put in place up and through the mountains so that views can be accessible to all visitors.
- Go fishing on one of the world’s most beautiful coasts and experience what the life of a Norwegian fisherman looks like. Tours are offered, taking visitors out onto the fishing field where they experience the unique silence and tranquility of the sea while hunting for the delicacies that live beneath. Upon reeling in a fish, the crew fillets the catch into delicate pieces and adds it to Norway’s best fish soup only seconds after it’s removed from the sea. The cold climate mixed with the warmth of the Gulf Stream ensures a rich and nutrient-filled sea which fills the Helgeland coast with healthy fish. Fishing luck is practically guaranteed.
Taste
- Dine at Restaurant Gammelbutikken, located in Støtt Top of Helgeland’s great room that has been uniquely designed to showcase casual coastal culture. The inspiration for cuisine time travels a few centuries back and is derived from the old trading post that once inhabited the land. Over the course of its history, delicious halibut, cod, whale meat and much more has been served here with the upmost hospitality and generosity toward those who have traveled through the land. Having the sea right at the doorstep, seafood is prepared from scratch and freshly caught. Restaurant Gammelbutikken is also the only restaurant in Norway that produces its own dried fish.
- Indulge in a pizza craving while on the island at Bella Napoli Ørnes Pizza-Grill, known among the locals for its diverse menu. The restaurant provides a cozy atmosphere and delicious Neapolitan style pizzas for a quick lunch while exploring the island. The menu also offers oriental/Turkish dishes such as kebabs and wraps.
- Devour a meal at Lille Gatekjøkken, a charming pub located on the island. Typical pub food such as burgers and fries take on a local spin with fresh seafood and local delicacies being showcased on the menu. It is the ultimate comfort food spot to try after a day of hiking or fishing on the through the islands.