Things to see and do Nord-Norge

Big sister of Haukland Beach, Uttakleiv is less known but no less beautiful. There are two ways to get there, by road, take the tunnel and follow the signs from Haukland Beach, or by the coastal path that starts from Haukland. The path makes the arrival on Uttakleiv more spectacular than ever. It is the most photographed beach in Norway. In summer, it is one of Norway's favourite destinations for watching the midnight sun, for campfires and camping, on the beach or on the dunes!

On the riverbank outside Kautokeino, Frank and Regine Juhls have created a veritable folk art sanctuary. For more than 40 years, they have been doing more than just creating jewellery in this silver workshop. The beauty of Saami art reveals its deep artistic meaning here. The jewellery (especially the knives, with their reindeer antler handles finely decorated with animal or symbolic motifs) are true marvels. In addition to the goldsmiths at work, you can also see the sheep, horses and chickens on the farm.

Unusually, the building was built as a museum. At the time it was simply a museum of the fishing industry, but in 1947 it became a cultural museum. The museum traces the town's cultural history, from the Vikings to the Sami to the daily lives of the Lofoten Islands' peasant-fishing families. In front of the entrance is a Stone Age menhir. A 20-minute film in the small black room traces the history of Bodø before the outbreak of war.

This charming little museum explains the harsh living conditions in these regions where one man in four dies at sea. How, by the way, have we been living at the 71st parallel for 10,000 years? That's what this museum explains. Eiderdown mining on the island of Store Tamsøy ceased after the war, as all the houses in Northern Norway were razed to the ground by the Nazis. From an already fragile economic equilibrium, the situation of the islanders never recovered.

A concept that's part museum, part study center and part theme park, opened in 1998. The architecture is appealing, in the shape of a block of ice, and the attractions - mainly adorable seals - are well designed to bring visitors closer to the wildlife of extreme cold. Seal feeding at 3 p.m. in summer and at 12.30 p.m. from September¹. A great place for the whole family to discover the underwater fauna and flora of the waters of the Far North. You can sponsor the seals to improve their daily lives...

This impressive church, consecrated in 1961, is known for its original architecture, which was inspired by the cod drying sheds that once stood in the village. It is reminiscent of the architecture of the Arctic Cathedral in Tromsø. Located in the city, caught between the mountain and the shore, it is the successor to the many churches that the city has known. The last two were burned down, one by the fire of 1890, the other by German troops.

Mack's Brewery is the northernmost brewery in the world, that's all! Take advantage of your time in the city to follow a tour and take part in a tasting in the oldest bistro in the city dating back to 1928. For purists! This beer is a real institution. It is still as popular as it has been since its launch, and it would be a shame not to taste this 100% local pleasure. Mack also has its own shop, Kjeller 5, its Ølhallen bar, and offers courses for those who would like to learn how to brew their own beer!

The official site of the Saami Parliament. Learn about political issues, democratic organisations and their constitution. In English.

Nordkapp Jul & Vinterhus, an adorable little house, temple of the Norwegian Christmas spirit! There are trinkets and other gift ideas for all seasons. Elves, tree balls, traditional cakes: nothing is missing! It is also a lively place where all the fishermen come to talk about their catches. Tasting of dried cod and visit of a traditional Christmas house. Tasting of mulled wine(gløgg) and pancakes(lefse), a delight!

The Reisaelv River dug a deep canyon across the mountain plateau. Waterfalls (including those of Mollisfossen, 269 m high), and rocky sediments, as well as the flora and bird species, are very diverse. The park serves as pasture for Semi semi-domestic reindeer. Access from Storslett (on the E 6), take the 865 to Bilto, then the forest road to the Sarelv River, where boats can be rented. Refuges shelters. Area: 803 km ².

Back on the E 6, after a hundred kilometres, while the road follows the contours of the bottom of the fjords, which sometimes extends the double, we arrive at a campsite that has taken its neighbourhoods in this extraordinary landscape. You can see the Large bird sanctuary. Another hundred kilometres, and we approach the mountains of Kvaenangen.

In Mettevollen, you can buy strawberries which, if incredible, grow here during the short summer season. Then the road rises in the Montagne mountain, isolated and dark. At the peak, facing the glacier and dominating the fjord, there is an old low-stone inn in the country. We are here very far from any dwelling, with the exception of some rudimentary Sami Demeures residences, "en hard" variants of tipis, and built in peat.

The university museum in Tromsø actually consists of three museums and a botanical garden: the main building of Norges arktiske universitetsmuseum, Polarmuseet, MS Polstjerna and Tromsø arktisk-alpine botaniske hage. All these museums highlight different aspects of the culture and nature of northern Norway, including Lapp culture, archaeology, geology, etc.. The garden can be visited from spring and during the summer.

German-born Eva Schmutterer moved here a few years ago. Inspired by the beauty of the landscape and, above all, its colors, she began to create works representing the North Cape that she loves so much. As you browse the gallery, you'll notice that her favorite themes are sometimes a church, sometimes the harbor, sometimes the famous midnight sun that so many tourists come here to admire. These works are made up of large flat areas of color and minute gradations. How does she do it? Go and ask her for her secret!

Thousands of different species of birds, including puffins, cormorants, gannets and different varieties of seagulls, make up a spectacular sight. Don't forget your binoculars and cameras!

Another option is to ask the fisherman owner of the Terrasen restaurant (✆ +47 950 377 22 - www.stappan.com) to take you out on his small fishing boat. More flexible and personalized tours. In the same way, he organizes an original adventure to discover the midnight sun.

This excursion is to be recommended only when the weather is fine and you can spend some time outside. It has been added for tourists, but its main purpose is to transport the islanders. The landscape is pleasant, the isolated houses give way to the desert coasts of the islands, a dream.

Hiking on the islands. Both islands offer many hiking trails for one or more days. Be careful however with the schedule of the boats.

Owned by the University of Tromsø, a garden to be discovered especially from spring and during summer has all varieties of Arctic flowers from all continents. For enthusiasts and lovers of plants and trees. A number of small birds also frequent this beautiful place. A nice café open in summer. Temporary exhibitions sometimes in the garden. A refreshing and very instructive walk for all.

The museum focuses on the local history of the town and its many transformations following the extraction of steel in the Kiruna mine and its transport by train to Narvik. Discover how this railway was built and its impact on the population over a period of more than 100 years. To this day, this railway line and the extraction of iron at the Kiruna mine are a major economic engine in the region. The museum is located in the former administrative buildings of NSB, the Norwegian railway company, dating from 1902.

Around Narvik there are several caves that can be visited and where it is possible to go caving in summer. Information at the tourist office for times and days. A sporting activity for those who are not claustrophobic of course! The Trollkirka cave, for example, is known to be quite extraordinary, with waterfalls, holes shaped over the years by water and ice, cracks here and there. May be also not recommended for people who are afraid of heights, ask your guide!

Located on the island of Senja and surrounded by towering mountains rising from the sea, this valley is mostly covered by marshes and mountain birch. The pine trees, whose creeping and twisted forms cling to the cliffs of the coast, add to the wild character of the place. Much less known than the Lofoten Islands, Senja is still spared from the crowds. A little jewel rising from the waters. Little development. Area: 69 km².

The landscape is typical of the Great Norwegian North: pines and birches, mountains, marshes and lakes, important morainic deposits. Semi-domestic reindeer inhabit these wide open spaces, which are also home to Norway's four major carnivores: the lynx, the wolf and the brown bear. Access via the 87, then local road to Frihetsli, then forest track. Marked trails. Unguarded huts. Area: 770 km² protected since 1971.

5 km from Karasjok is a nature park with barbecues, a rain shelter, toilets and a children's playground. Of course, you should check the weather conditions (or just look at the sky!) before venturing into a nature area, even if this one is equipped and is really not far from Karasjok. Not very well signposted but the tourist office will be able to explain the route. Bring something to light the barbecue!

Library specialized in the Saami universe. A unique collection of Saami literature in several languages.

At 6 km, this lighthouse is a landmark on the steep coast overlooking the Arctic Ocean. It is one of the most mythical lighthouses on the entire coast. Since its automation in 1994, it also serves as an accommodation for visiting groups. The view is breathtaking and it is hard to imagine a better place to be if you are looking to get away from the crowds and reconnect with nature. This lighthouse has been classified as cultural heritage since 1998. It used to run on kerosene around 1900 and then suffered the hazards of history, particularly the Second World War.

Stabbursdalen is a valley on the western shore of Porsangerfjord. The pine trees lining the shoreline are very old, some as old as 500 years. The valley narrows inland to form a narrow gorge, before widening again into gentle hills where bare rock outcrops. The landscape, with its extensive moraine deposits, is reminiscent of the Ice Age. The Stabburselva River, which irrigates the park, is a good salmon river.

Nordic Safari offers you the possibility to discover the region by sleigh or boat. A beautiful hike along the coast to the Nordkyn Cape, which is home to splendid and rare birds, with a view of the Northern Cape, the northernmost cape in Europe, is also proposed to you! Possibility of salmon fishing or partridge hunting. Information from the commune of Gamvik or the commune of Mehamn. The establishment also offers youth hostel, camping and rorbuer rentals.

The northernmost lighthouse in the world, located at the same latitude as Alaska. Visits are organized in the summer. It can be reached by a trail from Gamvik (5 km). The lighthouse is located in the middle of the natural park. The road that winds through the park was built in 1930. It leads to Varnesovnen, a cave used during the evacuations in the autumn of 1944. The lighthouse is now a lodge where you can stay between June and August every summer. A great opportunity for lovers of the great outdoors, hiking or fishing!

"Hornet is a rocky, horn-shaped promontory on the northeastern side of the North Cape cliff, below and beside the sea. In pre-Christian times, Hornet was a sacred place for the Sámi people of Magerøya, who regarded it as the domain of the gods. "Hornet can only be seen from a distance. In Viking times, the area was subjected to Viking taxation and sometimes sacked. The chief of Håløy traded with the Sami as far as the White Sea in Russia. But Norwegian settlement of Finnmark probably did not begin until the 16th century. The abundance of fish attracted fishermen from northern Europe. To secure territory, the fortress of Vardø and several fortified churches were built. Hornvika, or Horn Bay, was the place where tourist boats docked before 1956 and the construction of the road to Nordkapp.

Finnmark was booming until the end of the 17th century, when fishing suffered a serious crisis. Several sites along the coast were abandoned by the Norwegians. The 18th and 19th centuries saw an influx of immigrants from northern Finland and Sweden, as well as farmers from southern Norway. This led to many conflicts with the Saami who had occupied the land for centuries. A contemporary novel by a Saami author, Alio Gaup, The Magic Drum, was translated into French by Editions du Rocher in 1992. A place full of history that is worth a visit if you pass by.

This geological formation is a feast for the eyes; it's a portal-like fault several metres wide in a rocky promontory. The midnight sun shines through this "portal" between midnight and 2 a.m., and it's quite impressive. From here, the Hornet is clearly visible in the distance. The walk to Kirkeporten is also very pleasant: 2.5 kilometers from the Kikeporten campsite or the Nordkapp Turisthotell. Allow 1 hour in all.

Hornøya Island is a jewel, a must for nature and bird lovers. For the thousands of birds that reside here, the island is a paradise. On the island the rules are strict and have to be followed to the letter, because here there is no joke with the preservation of the fauna and flora. We stay on the marked trails only, we do not pollute and we do not disturb the animals under any circumstances. It is possible to stay on the island.

Kirkenes is a town in northern Norway, known for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. This local travel agency offers a variety of exciting activities, such as king crab safaris, minibus tours with a local guide, Northern Lights tours, river boat safaris, dog sled rides and much more. The Booking Kirkenes team is made up of local residents who will be delighted to share their knowledge of the region with you. What's more, the agency is ecologically certified and committed to preserving the environment. By booking with them, you are supporting a local business and helping to protect nature. Don't hesitate to contact Booking Kirkenes to organize your Arctic adventure in Kirkenes.

This cave dug into the rock is located under one of the city's hills and sheltered the civilians who took refuge there during the German bombardments of the Second World War. The 25-minute tour focuses on the history of Kirkenes during this painful time, with the presentation of a film and photos. A must-see place that is part of the network of museums throughout Northern Norway. A good way to imagine the daily life of the population in these times of war, but also the reconstruction that followed.

The Kvens were Finnish emigrants to Ruija, "the Land of the Sea", settling there as farmers, miners and fishermen. The entire Varanger region still bears the imprint of their culture. Through the various elements of their habitat, the Ruija Museum shows the vestiges of this multicultural region, such as the Tuomainen farm, a typical Kvens farm from 1840; the Esbensen estate; the Kjeldsen fishing hamlet near a bird-nesting rock; and the Vadsøya park with its arctic flora and fauna.

Sheltered in a large glass building is the MS Finnmarkent, the former home of the region's coastal shipping company. At the initiative of a former captain, Sten Magne Engen, this historic ship dating from 1956 has been converted into a museum, enabling visitors to discover the company's history through documents and archive images, as well as tours of completely restored rooms (engine room, bridge, saloon).

The Adolf Guns are the greatest guns in the world. They were built by the German occupiers during the Second World War and installed in the stronghold of Trondenes. Today, four are still in place but only one is fully preserved and maintained (in working order). These are the largest naval guns placed ashore during the Second World War in the whole of Europe. They formed Hitler's most powerful battery on his Atlantic Wall. Remembrance of a heavy and traumatic period for northern Norway as well.

The historic centre of Trondenes is a museum of regional history covering a vast period, from the Stone Age to the present day. An important part of the exhibitions are devoted to the Vikings and the Middle Ages. The museum is very interactive. It is situated in an absolutely beautiful setting by the water, 3 kilometres from the centre of Harstad. The place is ideal for a break after the visit; there is a restaurant, a café and a souvenir shop.

Visit Bodø is the official guide for the city and its region. It contains all information about the city and useful for the realization of a stay: accommodation, catering, advice and recommendations. The site is updated every day by a team of professionals passionate about the city and what it has to offer! Very useful.

You can't miss it during a stay in Lofoten. Located on the road that leads to Reine from Leknes, Ramberg beach is one of the most beautiful of the islands but also one of the most popular. Very popular for a stroll during the midnight sun. White sand, cove surrounded by mountains, turquoise water..., you would think you are in the Caribbean islands (without the palm trees and the heat!) or in New Zealand (without the giant ferns!). A superb place where it is good to stay several hours. Think of your hiking shoes to explore the area!

Less known than its big sisters, Haukland or Uttakleiv, the beach of Storsandes is a real little paradise. The place is ideal to admire the aurora borealis because there is no light pollution. If you are lucky enough to have a good goose down sleeping bag and a mattress, don't hesitate to settle down and fall asleep to the sound of nature and the stars. The beach is very large and you can see the mountains in the distance. Don't forget the thermos of hot water, it can be useful, even on a beautiful summer night!

A very beautiful gallery that pays tribute to one of the masters of the history of art in Norway, Kaare Espolin Johnson (1907-1994) and a great lover of the Lofoten Islands. A nice way to learn more about the maritime culture in the country. Exhibition and sale of some works. Located 10 minutes from Svolvaer and just outside Kabelvåg, the Espolin Gallery is connected to two other museums, the Lofoten Museum and the Lofoten Aquarium. So you can buy a combined ticket for all 3 museums, simple and convenient!

The hike takes about an hour, starting from Vinstad. Bunes is one of the most beautiful coves in all of Lofoten, with its white sandy beach and completely turquoise water and welcoming cliffs on both sides. The place is rather well kept from the crowds as it is a bit more difficult to get to (you can't get there by road). Be sure to check the ferry schedule before you leave so you don't get caught. It is possible to camp there with a good sleeping bag.

Allow 2 to 4 hours for the hike. Beautiful views from the summit. We recommend dry weather, however, as some sections can be quite slippery. Don't hesitate to stop by the tourist office to pick up hiking maps and let them know when you'll be leaving. Do as the locals do, and take a bar of Kvikk Lunsj with you - it's available everywhere! Check the weather forecast before you set off. Birch forest, small lakes, a few streams here and there. You can also go with a guide.

Count on two to three hours of hiking to get to the two summits. It is best to hike on a clear day, as the 360° view will be all the more impressive. It is the most accessible hike from Svoalver. It is also a good warm-up before the southern hikes. All public. And remember, in the mountains, (even if it is an easy hike) take a windbreaker and warm clothes, warn of your departure, check the weather, take a small snack, and above all, do not be ashamed to turn back if necessary!

The Aquarium will teach you more about the Atlantic Skrei cod which migrates every year from the Barents Sea to the Lofoten. Cod has been the foundation of the Lofoten fishery for centuries. We will of course know more about the arctic fauna (crustaceans and other marine animals of the Lofoten). Don't miss the feeding of seals and otters, as well as the exhibition on the art of coexistence, highlighting the importance of aquaculture, fishing and oil activities in Norway, on marine animals. Souvenir shop and coffee shop.

Only 15 minutes from the centre, the climb to the Salen mountain, which overlooks the town, is a must during a visit to Hammerfest. At the top, a viewpoint has been set up. From there, the view of the islands of Håja, Hjelmen and Saroya opposite is extraordinary. Electric bikes can be rented at the office for NOK 360 per hour. Ideal to ensure the climb and continue the walk to the next summit. Very easy walk if you are used to walking. Remember to take binoculars to observe the islands in the distance!

Rønvikfjellet offers the best view of the city and its surroundings and the best place to watch the midnight sun. There is a daily bus service from the city centre (information at the Tourist Office). An easy and accessible walk for everyone. Small paths start here and there and it is quite difficult to get lost because you can easily find your way by looking up. Small streams, pretty stones and a breathtaking view! We really enjoyed this little hike for the whole family.

Albmi Adventures is the story of a human project. An ecological, responsible and unique project set up by a young couple of Sami culture, André and Outi. They will take you to the untouched lands of northern Norway. They have chosen Bodø as their base camp; Bodø, ideally located above the Arctic Circle, between sea and mountains, guarantees a dive in the heart of this still well preserved Lapland nature. On the program: northern lights, sunset hikes, multi-day treks, kayaks, climbing...

Polar Tours offers tours all year round, departing from the Hurtigruten pier. Guided tours to the Saulstraumen Strait; the tour is done by bus and then by zodiac boat on the current. Also offers excursions to discover the Northern Lights in winter, it's the hunt for the Northern Lights. A hot drink will be offered to warm you up during the observation of the sky. Think of taking a blanket and why not a small mattress like an insulated camping mattress, it could be useful!

Brim is based on a simple and revolutionary concept: the hybrid boat. On the company's vessels, you can explore the fjords around Tromsø in complete peace and quiet, an extraordinary way to discover what nature has to offer, while respecting it. Brim offers year-round excursions, in line with the seasons. In winter, travel through breathtaking landscapes in search of birds and whales, or try to spot the Northern Lights. In summer, expeditions are made to the Lofoten Islands from Svolvaer.

Qualified, friendly guides offer a wide range of activities in all seasons, with packages to suit all levels: from simple hiking to sporting excursions (climbing, caving, safari, bungee jumping). Here are just a few examples: a day trip in a canoe, a day climbing excursion on the Hamarøyskaftet, a 6-hour hike to Hovdsundet, a sublime beach, a day glacier hike on the Svartisen, or a ride with sled dogs, either as a passenger or with your own sled.

It stretches along the water's edge like a long ship of stretched canvas and steel. The Vardø memorial was inaugurated in 2011 in memory of the victims of the witch hunt. One enters a long dark corridor. On the walls, the names and history of each of the victims are inscribed, lit by a small flame. Next door, the second part of Louise Bourgeois' Flammehuset"burns" silently: a flaming chair symbolizing the witch hunt is placed in a rounded hall designed by Peter Zumthor. A gripping visit. Not to be missed.

This bakery is a real institution in Å. It is not only a place that serves good cinnamon buns, it is also part of the history of the village. It serves paint baked in a stone oven dating from 1878. Built in 1844, it was rebuilt after the fire of 1888. At the time, guest workers for the fishing season were housed here. Today, the listed building opens its doors every summer for demonstrations!