Arctic Route: Lofoten - Tromsø
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Arctic Route by Best Arctic
Welcome to the Arctic Route! Travel between the Capital of the Arctic, Tromsø and Lofoten. Get ready to discover the Arctic in a safe, reliable, and relaxed way! Summer in the Arctic is breathtaking: from snowy mountain peaks to green flourishing hillsides, warm white sandy beaches and chilly windy mountain tops, from stunning fjords views to accessible mountain hikes, and from active Arctic towns to rustic and picturesque fishing villages. The area above the Arctic Circle has it all! Find out more about the area via the stories listed below.
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Points of interest
#1
We are here for you
In need of assistance: - Booking Point in Tromsø: Sjøgata 7 in Tromsø - daily from 9 am to 4 pm (from April to September) - info@bestarctic.com - 0047 953 03 888 - www.bestarctic.com - if emergency: call 0047 953 03 888 - don't use Instagram messages of Facebook messages in case of emergency We love help creating your magical Arctic holiday in the North.
#2
Fiskebøl Ferry
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the ferry. Fiskebøl Ferry is a ferry service that operates between the towns of Fiskebøl and Melbu in Northern Norway. The ferry is an important transport link for locals and tourists alike, providing a convenient and scenic way to travel between the two towns. The ferry journey takes around 25 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, fjords and islands. Along the way, passengers can often spot a variety of wildlife, including seals, porpoises and eagles. The Fiskebøl Ferry operates year-round, with multiple departures each day. During the summer months, the ferry is especially popular among tourists, who come to explore the natural beauty of Northern Norway. In addition to providing transportation, the Fiskebøl Ferry also offers a variety of onboard amenities. Passengers can enjoy a meal or a snack in the onboard café or relax in the comfortable seating areas while taking in the views. The Fiskebøl Ferry is a convenient and enjoyable way to travel between Fiskebøl and Melbu and is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Northern Norway.
#3
Svolvær Centre / Hurtigruten Terminal
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the bus stop Hurtigruten terminal, close to Thon Hotel. Svolvær is a vibrant and lively place for those who want to experience Lofoten’s urban life, nature and culture. Attractions here include the War Memorial Museum, where you will find Norway’s largest exhibition of uniforms and artifacts from the Second World War. Close to town, you can hike up to Djevelporten (or the Devil’s Gate). This famous Lofoten photo spot offers wonderful views from a rock that is apparently wedged between two mountains to create a bridge. Not far away is the spectacular Svolværgeita (or the Svolvær Goat). People have been climbing up this 150m pinnacle since 1910. Visitors who enjoy steep heights and excitement can book a guided climbing tour. A more relaxing option is the floating sauna at Svinøya Rorbuer followed by a refreshing dip in the sea. For a memorable nature and wildlife adventure, you can sail from Svolvær to the famous Trollfjord – one of Lofoten’s true gems. This narrow Arctic fjord can only be reached by boat or a 10 km hike across the mountains. After an active day, you can choose between a variety of restaurants in Svolvær. While you are in Northern Norway, we recommend trying fresh seafood.
#4
Melbu Ferry
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the ferry in front of Melbu hotel. The Melbu Ferry is a ferry service that runs between Melbu and Fiskebøl in Nordland. The ferry crossing takes about 25 minutes and is part of the Coastal Route, one of Norway’s most famous tourist routes. Just a one-minute walk from the ferry landing, you will find Melbu Hotell, which is the perfect starting point for great experiences in Lofoten and Vesterålen. The activity provider Adventure 4 Life is based at the hotel. This company offers authentic experiences and activities based on tradition, history and nature. Melbu town centre has a good selection of shops and places to eat. One attraction is Melbu Gallery, which features exhibitions of local artists. Nature lovers can explore the nearby Møysalen National Park, which is characterised by steep mountains, glaciers, valleys and fjords. The national park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including reindeer, otters and eagles. It’s also a popular destination for hiking with several marked trails offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Adventure idea: At Melbu, you can join a tour with a local guide from Adventure4Life, located in Melbu Hotel.
#5
Hurtigruten Museum
Arctic Route bus stop: to the left of the Hurtigruten Museum entrance. The museum opens at 10:00. Board at the Quality Hotel to buy a coffee/tea and start your visit to Stokmarknes. Duration of museum visit: allow at least 90 minutes for your visit. Visit the fascinating Hurtigruten Museum in Stokmarknes, where this remarkable story began. The Hurtigruten ships have been an important means of transport and a cultural institution in Norway for more than a century. They have played an important role in connecting the south and north of Norway. In 1999, the old express route ship MS Finnmarken ended up at the Hurtigruten Museum in Stokmarknes in Nordland and today graces the landscape as one of the world's greatest museum artifacts. The solution to preserve the monument of Norwegian coastal history is a 3,600 square meter building that encloses the ship and is built mainly of steel and glass. The shape of the building is inspired by the openings in the ship's side that slope forward at both the stern and bow. MS Finnmarken was the first ship with this type of opening, which gave the impression of a fast-moving ship. The design is inspired by this design concept and the concept supports it in both volume and floor plan. The existing building, together with the listed building of the Hurtigruten Museum, will house the exhibition that tells the story of the coastal express line. Hungry? Have lunch in the original restaurant on the Finnmarken ship.
#6
Sortland Centre
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the bus terminal in Sortland. Sortland is a small, beautiful and charming town located in the Vesterålen archipelago in Northern Norway. Known as the “blue cultural town”, Sortland is famous for its distinctive, blue-painted houses, which add a unique and picturesque touch to its already stunning natural scenery. Surrounded by mountains, fjords and pristine wildness areas, Sortland is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. In addition to its natural beauty, Sortland also boasts a vibrant culture scene. The town is home to several museums and galleries, showcasing the region’s rich history and artistic heritage. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Sortland Jazz Festival and the Sortland Film Festival. From Sortland, you can travel to Bø i Vesterålen – home to Ringstad Resort. This special place offers stunning accommodation and activities such as kayak trips and eagles safaris. A hidden gem in Sortland is the PUST Sauna, located behind Scandic Hotel, in the ocean. Keen for a jump in the Arctic water?
#7
Marmelkroken
On the south route, this is no a photo stop. On the north route to Svolvær, Arctic Route stops for 20 minutes - coffee, tea, and fresh waffles are ready for purchase, homemade by Lisbeth her kitchen team. Enjoy! Marmelkroken is a hidden gem! So let me tell you about this special place! Marmelkroken is an old farm containing all the habitats found on Andøya within a short walk of the lodge. Our forest is home to many bird species. For instance, you have excellent chances of seeing a golden eagle or rough-legged buzzard soaring above the mountains, patrolling the area. We can promise you unforgettable wildlife experiences and a sense of intact nature in a lush Arctic cultural landscape. The hosts have set up several small architectural gems, each highlighting the qualities of the landscape in which they are located. They take pleasure in providing facilities for our guests to experience and explore. The forest Marmelskogen has an architectural viewpoint with room for two. This may well be the most romantic bird watching place in Norway. Can you also spot the most beautiful bird houses in Norway in the forest? Northern Norway’s smallest café is a tiny piece of architecture at the edge of the forest, at the foot of a mountain and, with views of the sea. If you love nature and everything it offers, then this place has it all!
#8
Bleik Beach Midnattsol Camping
Arctic Route Bus Stop: next to the main entrance of the Bleik Midnattsol Camping. This is a photo stop on the south route (from Andenes to Svolvær). Bleik Beach is a stunningly beautiful beach located on the island of Andøya in Northern Norway. With its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand, Bleik Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Hop off the bus for this magical photo stop. Stroll on the beach, feel the pure Arctic air, gaze out at the open sea and simply relax. The beach stretches more than 2 km and is framed by towering mountains. The water is cold, even during the summer months. However, if you dare to have a refreshing dip in the Arctic Sea, it will be a wonderful experience that you will long remember. Bleik Beach is also a popular spot for surfing and kiteboarding, thanks to the consistent winds that blow through the area. One of the unique features of Bleik Beach is the resident population of puffins that can be found nesting in the nearby cliffs, and on the triangular island that rises opposite Bleik Beach: Bleiksøya. You can take guided tours by boat to see these adorable birds up close and learn about their behaviour and habitat.
#9
Andenes Thon Hotel
Arctic Route Bus Stop: outside at Thon Hotel Andenes. The idyllic village of Andenes is the largest settlement in Andøy municipality. Andenes is located at the northern tip of the island of Andøya. Andenes has a civilian airport and a military air station. To experience the local culture and cuisine of Andenes and Northern Norway, we recommend visiting one of the wide range of restaurants and cafés, where you can taste traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Andenes is also known for its lively music and arts scene, with frequent concerts and cultural events taking place throughout the year. As you explore Andenes, you will notice its unique blend of modern and traditional Norwegian culture. Andenes Suite Hotel and Thon Hotel are ideally located for those wishing to explore this fascinating place and its many attractions. The Andenes Lighthouse, Polar Museum and Whale2Sea tour departure point are all within easy walking distance.
#10
Whale Watching / Lighthouse Andenes
Arctic Route Bus Stop: in front of Whale Safari and Whale2Sea (close to the lighthouse). Whale-watching is the number one attraction on the “Things to do in Andenes” list. Just off the coast of Andenes is a very deep canyon called Bleik Canyon. The whales can find enough food here year-round and don’t need to migrate to chase herring or other prey, like they do in other places! Experiencing a close-up encounter with these giant marine mammals is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! You can book your tour at Best Arctic or Whale2Sea. The Andenes Lighthouse has been guiding ships safely through the treacherous waters of the Norwegian Sea since 1859. With a height of 40 m, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Andenes harbour, mountains and open sea. The lighthouse is Norway’s fourth highest and is open to the public. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history and importance of maritime navigation. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower to experience the breathtaking views and the daily life of its keepers. The sea around Andenes is renowned for its high productivity, which attracts a wide variety of baleen and toothed whales. The most frequently spotted species are sperm whales, which can be found here year-round. Witnessing a sperm whale in person is an awe-inspiring experience that has even inspired Melville’s classic novel Moby Dick. These whales are the world’s largest-toothed creatures. They grow up to 20 m long and weigh up to 60 tonnes. Get your camera ready to capture stunning shots of their flukes before they dive.
#11
Andenes Ferry
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the ferry. Toilet on the quay. Important: the bus is not joining on the bus - you will walk your luggage and walk on the ferry. There is another red Arctic Route bus waiting for you at the other side. The Andenes Ferry is a popular mode of transportation that connects the town of Andenes on the island of Andøya to Gryllefjord on the neighbouring island of Senja. Be ready for a wavy ride, as the rough weather in the open sea can make the ferry bounce on the waves. In Andenes, there are several activities to do and places to visit. One of the top attractions is the Andenes Whale Centre, where you can learn about the various species of whales that may be found in the waters around Andenes. And of course: Whale Watching by RIB. Another popular attraction is the Andøya Space Centre, which is the site of Norway's national centre for space-related research and technology. You can go on a guided tour and learn about the fascinating history and science of space exploration, as well as witness rocket launches and other events. If you are a nature lover, Andøya is a paradise for hiking, fishing and birdwatching. The island is home to a variety of bird species, including puffins, guillemots, and eagles, and the coastline provides ample fishing opportunities.
#12
Gryllefjord Ferry
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the ferry. Important: the bus is not joining on the ferry ! - you will walk your luggage and all your belongings to the ferry on foot and walk on the ferry. There is another red Arctic Route bus waiting for you on the other side. Gryllefjord is a fishing village with a current population of less than 400. Perhaps you have noticed that the houses here are built very close together. There is a good reason for this. Owing to the risk of landslides, limited space was available so it was decided to increase the density so there was space for enough houses. This is a remarkable exception from common building trends in Norway. And see the graffiti art, created by Kristine Lura, can you find them all? Even though Gryllefjord is a small village, it has its own fire department, school, grocery store, petrol station and restaurant. Tourism is one of the main reasons that such a small place can support such services. A short drive over the mountain from Gryllefjord brings you to Torsken, where we find “Senja by Heart”. This tourism provider offers exciting of adventures like guided tours of the salmon processing facility, fjord safaris, cycling and unique accommodation. “Senja by Heart” has a restaurant, which is the social heart of Torsken. This nice restaurant serves local food based on local ingredients of first-class quality. The seafood dishes are made from products from nearby processing facilities.
#13
Hamn i Senja
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the small bridge, 150 meters from the entrance. Important: This is only a hop-on/hop-off stop. Hamn i Senja is a true gem. Since 1994, this historical fishing station has established itself as a well-known holiday resort offering a wide range of activities. It’s also a desirable conference destination. This place burned down in 2005, but they managed to save one of the historical buildings that is still standing. Can you spot the cute little white and blue mini house during your stroll? The name “hamn” means harbour. Hamn i Senja has been a safe harbour for many a fisherman for several centuries. The hundreds of islands and islets in the azure sea beyond now serve as an adventure destination for visitors from all over the world. Can you spot kayakers and small boats in the sea? Ask at the reception about joining one of these exciting sea-based experiences.
#14
Skaland
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the parking next to the gas station. Although Skaland is a small place, it has a shop, pub, church, restaurant, lodge, camping site and even a mining museum. Berg Church in Skaland is the starting point for the popular mountain hike up to Husfjellet. The hike from the white stone church up to the summit and back takes around 3 hours. At the Skagi coffee shop, you can buy drinks and food for your stay in Skaland or your journey on the Arctic Route. Hop in and buy one of Skagi’s delicious homemade cakes. Keen to try sea kayaking in this pure Arctic archipelago? Join Senja Wild on a kayaking trip during the daytime or later in the evening under the golden rays of the Midnight Sun. One special spot with a gorgeous view is Kråkeslottet, known in English as the “Crow’s Castle”. It’s situated at Bøvær beach at the end of the road, which is a one-hour walk from the centre of Skaland. This fascinating house literally stands on stilts in the Arctic sea – and you can enjoy the spectacular sight of the Midnight Sun from your bed.
#15
Ersfjord Beach
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the parking next to the golden toilet. Ersfjordstranda is recognised as one of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Senja and in Northern Norway. See the Okshornan mountains on your right. It’s often referred to as “The Devil’s Jaw”, which is funny since the actual name translates to “The Bull’s Horn”. This is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. You can sunbathe on the beach or stroll along the coast. On a fine summer’s day, the water is relatively warm here, making it a great place for swimming or water activities. There are also many excellent hiking trails in the area that offer wonderful views of the mountains and the sea. As well as the spectacular nature, and beautiful wonderful views, Erfjordstranda has another attraction: Gulldoen, which means “The Golden Toilet”. Despite a price tag of 3.75 million Norwegian kroner, the architecturally designed facility houses a single toilet that is only open during the summer! Hop off the bus, run to the beach, feel the pure Arctic air, and relax. This is a bucket list photo stop that you simply can’t miss. If nature calls, you can even test out the famous golden toilet!
#16
Mefjord Brygge
Arctic Route Bus Stop: in front of the entrance of Mefjord Brygge. Mefjord Brygge is an active holiday destination located on the northern coast of the island of Senja. It’s set in a charming local village with a population of 150. Mefjordvær is part of the Norwegian Scenic Route. Directly across from Mefjord Brygge and, from the viewpoint on the Norwegian Scenic Route, you can see Nordlandet on the other side of the fjord. It’s a beautiful and dramatic mountain range with famous mountains like Segla and Hesten. In the same fjord, you find Barden, Kyle and Breitinden. The latter is Senja’s highest mountain. You can easily reach many of the mountains from Mefjord Brygge, making it an excellent base for mountain hiking in Senja. You can rent boats to go fishing, go on a cruise to spot seals and conclude your adventurous day with an outdoor jacuzzi or sauna at Mefjord Brygge. Mefjord Brygge is locally owned and has a close connection to the village and north Norwegian traditions. The resort has been built gradually over the years. Mefjord Brygge offers a choice of hotel rooms, comfortable apartments and holiday houses and can sleep up to 145 guests. We recommend hopping off and staying overnight.
#17
Botnhamn Ferry
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the ferry. Botnhamn is a small fishing village on the northern coast of the island of Senja. Many of the residents are commercial fishermen and own their own fishing boats. Botnhamn and several other fishing villages on Senja facilitate and invest in young labour. It’s common to see the children in these villages cutting cod tongues after school. This is completely legal in Norway, and many children can earn up to 50,000 Norwegian kroner in one summer. Crisp-fried cod tongues are considered a delicacy. A short drive over the mountain is rewarded with a wonderful view of Husøy, a small island in the middle of the Øyfjord, which is connected to the mainland by a breakwater. Botnhamn has a local shop selling all sorts of weird things and a small café serving really good burgers. You should try one! Botnhamn has a long and fascinating history. It was an old farmyard mentioned in historical writings in the 14th century under the name Stufunes. Several archaeological discoveries from the Stone Age and Iron Age have been made here. The most famous one dates from around 1000 AD and is known as “The Silver Treasure of Botnhamn”.
#18
Brensholmen ferry
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the ferry. The village of Brensholmen on the island of Kvaløya is characterised by fishing and agriculture. It’s believed that agriculture has been practiced here since the Iron Age. Farmers regularly find objects of archaeological value while plowing. Brensholmen is connected to Botnhamn in Senja by ferry. It’s also just a 10-minute drive from Brensholmen to the beautiful time-free island of Sommarøy! People living at Sommarøy want to escape the clock because they know that when the sun rises on 18 May it will not set again until 26 July. Days become so drawn out that few people pay attention to time here. The locals often play football, go hiking and kayaking or mow their lawn in what the rest of the world would call the middle of the night. The New York Times even wrote an article about the Norwegian island that wants to go “time free”. This generated worldwide publicity. To be clear, there are ways to know when it’s the evening or middle of the day without clocks. The locals use the position and changing colour of the sun: A burnt orange sun hovering near the horizon indicates night while the sun high in the sky is day.
#19
Sommarøy Hotel & Adventure stop
Sommarøy Hotel is a place to see during your visit. Hop off, go for a hike, a swim and stay. Join on of our adventurous day tour from Tromsø, including lunch and sauna at Sommarøy hotel. We have the best summer adventure ready for you: kayak tour along the white sandy beaches. Important: no stop on Sundays.
#20
Midnight Sun in the Arctic
The Midnight Sun in Norway is a natural phenomenon that occurs during the summer months in the northern parts of the country. As the Earth tilts on its axis, the Arctic Circle experiences sun around the clock during the summer solstice. This means that the sun never sets, and the sky remains bright and illuminated all day and night. The higher above the Arctic Circle, the longer the period lasts. In Tromsø, the Midnight Sun season is from 21 May to 21 July. The Midnight Sun is a spectacular sight to behold, and Northern Norway is one of the best places to experience it. You can enjoy activities like hiking, kayaking and fishing during the night with a warm golden glow on the mountains and fjords and no need for artificial light. The phenomenon is an important part of the cultural heritage of the indigenous Sami people, who have lived in the Arctic region for thousands of years. To the Sami, the Midnight Sun represents a time of renewal and a celebration of life. They have developed unique traditions and rituals to mark the occasion. Are you keen to experience a Midnight Sun activity?
#21
Tromsø
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the big parking, 50 meters from Scandic Ishavshotel in the city centre. Far north of the Arctic Circle lies a vibrant island city at latitude 69° North. Welcome to Tromsø, the capital of the Arctic. The Arctic Cathedral, the most iconic building in Tromsø, is located on the mainland next to the Tromsø bridge. This church dates from 1965. Tromsø has a lot of activities to see and experience. Pay a visit to Tromsø’s oldest pub. It’s called Ølhallen, which means “the beer hall”. Quality beer is served here from 72 different taps. You can join a guided tour and beer tasting and get to know the history of Mack’s Brewery from past to present. You can also go on a 90-minute city walk tour and experience hidden stories brought back to life by local guides. Perhaps a cinema is what you want? Tromsø has the largest cinema in Northern Norway, with six movie theatres showing films 365 days a year. Another Tromsø cinema, Verdensteatret, is the oldest cinema in Northern Europe still in operation. Tromsø is the home to the world’s northernmost university, brewery, botanical garden and cathedral. Something to mark off your bucket list?