The municipalities of Steigen, Hamarøy, Tysfjord and Sørfold offer a unique coastal heritage and landscape as known through the Norwegian Nobel Prize Laureate in Literature, Knut Hamsun.

Beautiful rock carvings confirm that there have been human settlements here since the Stone Age.

Today, the sea and the fertile soil still provide a basis for living here. You will see well-run farms, mature forests, fishing and aquaculture. Also located here is Arran, a centre for Lule Sami culture, spanning from traditional handicrafts to an electronic classroom.

Midnight sun and polar nights

Experience the magical midnight sun season in the Realm of Hamsun between 22 May and 18 July. During this period, the sun remains above the horizon and it is light 24-hours a day. However, the midnight sun is only visible in clear weather.

The polar nights in the Realm of Hamsun lasts from 30 November to 12 January. During this period, you only experience twilight a few hours a day. The "blue night" towards the south just before it becomes dark is particularly beautiful.

Northern lights

The northern lights are only visible when the sky is dark and clear, from August to April, and they are most intense from 10 pm to midnight. The Realm of Hamsun region is a fantastic place to experience the beautiful and intense play of colours given by the northern lights.