The sea, two untamed rivers and forests shape the natural landscape of Nordmaling Municipality. The municipality has around ten small and large nature reserves protecting valuable natural environments. In the Örefjärden-Snöanskärgården area, land uplift is 85 centimetres per century—a measure of the area’s long-term geological development. Nature experiences range from bird migration and bog landscapes to river courses and coastal villages.
Hiking Trails, Bird Migration and Starry Skies
Kronören Nature Reserve has two marked hiking trails. The area is also suitable for sea kayaking. Check water conditions and local regulations before paddling; trail conditions may also vary seasonally. At Långroudden in the reserve, birdwatchers gather in spring, autumn and winter to watch the migration. These three seasons offer a useful guide if you want to plan your trip around birdwatching.
Torsmyran offers a different kind of nature experience. The entrance to the nature reserve is just north of Nordmaling, directly off the E4; a ramp provides access to the bog. With very little light pollution from nearby development, Torsmyran is also suitable for stargazing. The area is also home to an archaeological feature: a 370-metre-long system of twelve trapping pits.
River Landscapes and Coastal Villages
Ålidberget Nature Reserve covers the upper parts of Ålidberget and its eastern slopes down to the Lögdeälven. The landscape includes sediment deposits, steep sandy erosion scarps and ravines on both sides of the river. The Lögdeälvsleden trail passes through the reserve along the western bank of the Lögdeälven and is often used by sport fishers and hikers interested in nature. Along the trail are overnight cabins, wind shelters, suspension bridges, terrain steps, boardwalk sections and equipped rest areas. Check trail and infrastructure conditions before setting out.
The Lögdeälvsleden is 113 kilometres long and follows the Lögdeälven through the municipalities of Bjurholm and Nordmaling to Fredrika in Åsele Municipality. The name Tempelleden is sometimes also used for the full route. The river is one of Norrland’s most important salmon and sea trout waters; it is also home to particularly valuable populations of freshwater pearl mussels, salmon and trout. If you plan to fish, check the applicable rules and access conditions in advance. Another geological feature, Tjuv-Antes Cave, is one of Sweden’s largest tunnel caves.
Near the mouth of the Öreälven, Örsten has an extensive sandy beach. Örsten is accessible by boat; take water conditions and local regulations into account. Beach conditions may vary depending on the season. On the archipelago island of Snöan, the shingle fields feature old stone formations in the shape of compass roses and circular labyrinths. At Järnäs udde, next to the guest harbour at Storklubben, stands a 19th-century pilot station.
Industrial History and Ecclesiastical Heritage
Olofsfors Bruk ironworks dates back to 1762 and is one of Sweden’s best-preserved industrial heritage sites. Guided tours are available, and visitors can also explore the industrial museum. Opening times may vary seasonally, so check before your visit. The church in Nordmaling was built around 1480. It is one of the few medieval churches in Upper Norrland. The church museum is housed in the old mortuary chapel and contains objects from the church’s long history. Another regular fixture in the annual calendar is the Nordmaling market, held every July. The exact market dates vary from year to year.
Winter Activities and Practical Information
Ålidberget has two drag lifts and two groomed downhill runs; operation depends on snow and opening conditions. At Lusberget near Ålidberget, there is a five-kilometre cross-country ski trail with barbecue huts. Another trail is located at the turnaround on Åkervägen: it is 3.3 kilometres long, completely flat, suitable for both classic and skate skiing, and unlit. By comparison, the Åkervägen trail is shorter and unlit, while the trail at Lusberget has barbecue huts. Seasonal snow conditions should be taken into account for both options.
Nordmaling station is on the Bothnia Line and is served by a Norrtåg route with connections to Sundsvall, Örnsköldsvik and Umeå. As timetables can change, check connections for your travel dates. If you’re planning a visit around the July market, it’s also worth checking the exact event dates before arranging your stay.
Discover more destinations: Järnäs, Lögdeå, Nordmaling, Norrfors, Bäcknäset, Robertsfors, Sorsele and Vännäs.
For the broader travel overview: Västerbotten.
