A TASTE OF NORTHERN NORWAY
Experience coastal culture up close. Northern Norway is often called the “Land of Light,” with long, bright evenings and the midnight sun during summer. This journey takes you from Sommarøy outside Tromsø, via Senja to Vesterålen, and concludes with a few days in the stunning Lofoten Islands.
Photo: Sommarøy
DAY 1: TROMSØ TO SOMMARØY
The journey begins in Tromsø, from where you’ll drive about 50 minutes to Sommarøy Arctic Hotel. Enjoy the fresh sea air from your own balcony.
Sommarøy is one of Elin’s favorite spots from her time in Tromsø. On a warm summer day, the island’s coral-white beaches and turquoise waters could be mistaken for the Caribbean. But take a dip in the sea, and you’ll quickly realize that you are indeed in the Arctic.
Photo: Sommarøy
DAY 2: SOMMARØY
Spend the day exploring Sommarøy. Why not try deep-sea fishing or embark on a spectacular sea safari? On the safari, you’ll visit areas only accessible by boat, with great chances of spotting white-tailed eagles, otters, porpoises, and puffins along the way.
The archipelago around Sommarøy is wild and unique, from steep cliffs plunging into the sea to pristine white beaches and rocky shores. You can also rent a kayak and explore the area at your own pace.
DAY 3: SENJA & VESTERÅLEN
Your journey continues with a ferry to Senja. For those who enjoy hiking, consider a trek up Segla before taking another ferry from Gryllefjord to Andenes.
Upon arrival in Andenes, check in to your hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner. If you’re up for some activity, we recommend a hike to Måtinden, a fantastic spot to admire the midnight sun.
Photo: Sea Safari Andenes
DAY 4: WHALE SAFARI
It’s time for a whale safari. The tour is conducted in a RIB boat with small groups, guided by an expert who will introduce you to the rich marine life of the north.
During the summer, sperm whales are the most commonly sighted, while in winter there are excellent opportunities to see orcas. You can also combine the trip with a birdwatching excursion to Bleiksøya, one of the largest bird islands in Northern Norway.
Back on land, enjoy the long summer evening with a relaxing walk along Bleik Beach.
Photo: Classic Norway Hotels
DAY 5-6: HENNINGSVÆR
After breakfast and check-out, continue your journey through Vesterålen to Lofoten.
You’ll stay right on the quay in Lofoten’s largest and most vibrant fishing village. Use your time to explore Henningsvær, join a RIB tour into Trollfjorden, or hike the stunning Festvågtind.
Photo: Daniel Jacobsen
DAY 7-8: REINE RORBUER
The journey continues to the fishing village of Reine, located at the mouth of Reinefjorden. Here, the majestic Lofoten mountains and the Arctic Ocean are your closest neighbors. Accommodation is in traditional red rorbuer cabins.
Use the rest of the day to explore on your own or ask us to arrange an activity. How about going deep-sea fishing or trying sea rafting?
DAY 9: EXPLORE LOFOTEN
Wake up to the gentle lapping of the sea and the fresh scent of saltwater. Spend the day as you wish.
A hike up Reinebringen is a popular choice for many visitors, but there are plenty of other beautiful trails nearby: Ryten, Mannen, and Helvetestinden (check out the hikes here).
How about an evening hike in the midnight sun?
Photo: Classic Norway Hotels
DAY 10: DEPARTURE
From Reine, you can take the ferry from Moskenes to Bodø or return your rental car and fly from Leknes.
If your journey isn’t quite over, we’re happy to suggest extensions and additional experiences.
Are you interested in this itinerary?
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