Västernorrland County

Västernorrland County is an administrative region in northern Sweden covering roughly 23,100 square kilometers. Low coastal areas along the Gulf of Bothnia transition inland into densely forested plateaus that shape the landscape.

The region was established as an administrative unit in 1654 and originally included territories north of Gävle. It developed into an important area for forestry and settlement of northern Sweden.

The region is shaped by timber and forestry traditions that remain visible in daily life across its communities. Visitors encounter people who take pride in preserving their craftsmanship connected to the land.

Seven municipalities form the administrative structure, with Härnösand serving as the main administrative hub. Public transportation connects the various towns and allows for exploring different parts of the region.

The name means Western Norrland even though the region sits on Sweden's eastern coast. This naming comes from historical times when territorial divisions included parts of what is now Finland.

Location: Sweden

Inception: March 13, 1654

Capital city: Härnösand

Part of: Medelpad, Ångermanland, Hälsingland, Jämtland

Shares border with: Västerbotten County, Jämtland County, Gävleborg County

Website: https://lansstyrelsen.se/vasternorrland

GPS coordinates: 62.73972,16.93000

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:25