Senja & Central Troms
From sea to summit
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It's a paradise for outdoor recreation.
Here are ten reasons why:
1. Hiking
The majestic mountains are a great place to pause and reflect.
There are numerous trails in Senja and the surrounding islands. The most iconic mountains are Husfjellet (pictured), Hesten, and Segla.
2. Fishing
You suddenly feel a tug on your line and look excitedly over at your fishing buddy. In Senja, you have one of the world’s richest fishing waters at your doorstep.
The turquoise water is mesmerising ...
Makes you want to jump in, right?
Spend a day at the beach with friends at Ersfjordstranda or Bøstranda.
It’s hard to believe you are in the Arctic when you're sinking your toes into the fine, powdery sand.
3. Skiing
Excitement and freedom!
Skiing off-piste in Senja is really something else. The breathtaking contrasts between the jagged peaks and the sea below are quite unique.
Always go with a local guide, both for your own safety and to get the best skiing!
Senja also has an alpine skiing centre with slopes for every level of difficulty.
The Målselv Mountain Village resort is a wonderful place to spend a family holiday.
The resort is located close to Bardufoss Airport and is a two-hour drive from Tromsø.
The whole family can enjoy the downhill slopes, before spending some quality time together with a hot chocolate in one of Målselv Mountain Village's modern apartments or cosy cabins.
4. Wildlife
Nice to meet you, wolf!
About an hour's drive from the Målselv Mountain Resort, you will find Polar Park, the world’s northernmost zoo. See the 'Scandinavian big four': wolf, wolverine, bear, and lynx.
And just 30 minutes away, you can make a big splash at Polarbadet, an indoor aquatic centre with water slides, spa pools, and saunas.
5. Cycling
Strain uphill and coast downhill.
Senja is ideal for cycling. With some peaceful pedalling, you can enjoy the most stunning surroundings.
Join an evening electric bike tour of the island.
6. Midnight sun
Experience the midnight sun.
Take a break at the rest area by Tungeneset and enjoy views of the Northern Sea bathed in the yellow, orange, and red hues of the late-night sunset.
Tungeneset is part of Norwegian Scenic Route Senja. There are a number of beautiful places to stop along the way.
Such as this viewing point at Bergsbotn, where you’ll definitely get an Insta-worthy picture.
7. Northern lights
Senja and Central Troms are located far above the Arctic circle. If you are visiting between September and April, and if you're lucky, the northern lights will put on a spectacular show for you.
Combine your northern lights hunt with a dog sledding tour and camping in the pristine wilderness, or staying in a lighthouse at Norwegian Wild.
8. Relaxation
Imagine relaxing with your best friends under the midnight sun in a jacuzzi, outside in the crisp Arctic air.
Hamn is Senja's biggest resort, with a relaxing atmosphere. It's also a haven for adventurers, offering a variety of activities all year round.
9. Hidden gems
Although Senja itself might be a new destination for many travellers, there is an even lesser-known gem in the area.
Senja's little sister, Dyrøya island,lies just south of the big island of Senja.
Sheltered from rough weather, this lush green island is the perfect place for outdoor relaxation.
Another place that's well worth a visit is tiny Husøy island.
Fun fact: The islanders still practice the siesta, an early afternoon rest or nap. Legend has it that Spanish sailors first introduced the Mediterranean tradition to the area hundreds of years ago.
Visit quaint fishing communities, like Mefjordvær, Bøvær, Frovåg, and Gryllefjord.
10. Nature at your doorstep
You don't have to go very far to get away from it all.
Travelling to Senja is easy, and there are lots of ways to get there.
In summer, there’s a ferry from Andenes in Vesterålen to Gryllefjord. You may even spot whales during the crossing!
There is also a year-round ferry service between Brensholmen (a one-hour drive from Tromsø) and Botnhamn (in Senja).
That was just a small taste of what you can experience in Senja and Central Troms!