The midnight sun in Norway

The allure of contemplating the myriad sights and experiences beneath the perpetual glow of the midnight sun has captivated generations of individuals, from seafaring communities in the Lofoten and Vesterålen archipelagos to the Sami reindeer herders dwelling in the far reaches of the north.

Immerse Yourself in the Midnight Sun Experience

Embark on a journey to the regions beyond the Arctic Circle in Norway and partake in these enchanting moments firsthand. Undertaking a whale safari or venturing into the inland wilderness takes on a unique charm during the summer months when the nocturnal illumination unveils nature and wildlife from an entirely different perspective.

For those unafraid of the occasionally brisk summer nights in the north, consider a midnight swim or setting up camp in the wild. Numerous attractions and activities operate throughout the night, allowing you to engage in activities like midnight golfing, cycling, river paddling, sea kayaking, or perhaps finding a serene spot for a quiet fishing expedition.

If your travels lead you to the Arctic islands of Svalbard, prepare for the sun’s continuous presence from April to late August. Here, engage in a midnight hike on a glacier (accompanied by a guide) or witness the reddish hues of the sky while gliding across the unique climate and nature near the North Pole on a dog sled.

Navigating the Midnight Sun

Venture into Northern Norway between May and July, and you’ll be welcomed by 76 days of the midnight sun. The farther north you explore, the more nights of this ethereal phenomenon you encounter.

Throughout the summer months, revel in up to 24 hours of daylight above the Arctic Circle, providing ample time to savor the sights and unearth new wonders. Divide your midnight sun escapade in Northern Norway into six key areas as you journey northward.

Helgeland

Begin your exploration in the southernmost region of Northern Norway known as Helgeland, just below the Arctic Circle. Traverse the Kystriksveien Coastal Route, celebrated as one of the world’s most picturesque road trips, leading you to hidden white beach coves, quaint towns like Brønnøysund and Mosjøen, and delightful hikes in mountain ranges such as De syv søstre and Okstindan. Explore small islands like Træna, Lovund, and Myken via local ferries, allowing for a car-free island-hopping experience.

Bodø and Salten

Continue your journey along the Coastal Route, crossing the Arctic Circle into the Salten region and reaching Bodø. Beyond being a major transportation hub, Bodø offers intriguing attractions, including museums, the formidable Saltstraumen maelstrom, and the well-preserved seaside trading post at Kjerringøy. Embark on a boat excursion to explore enchanting Salten islands like Steigen, Hamarøy, Støtt, Bolga, and Rødøy. Don’t miss the Svartisen glacier just south of Bodø.

Lofoten and Vesterålen

Venture northwest across the sea to discover the captivating islands of Lofoten and Vesterålen, renowned for their dramatic, rocky peaks, coastal flatlands, and picturesque fishing villages. Immerse yourself in Viking culture at the Lofotr Viking Museum, embark on a day cruise to the narrow Trollfjord, and participate in a whale safari from Andenes.

Troms

Explore the vibrant city of Tromsø in Troms county, often dubbed “the Paris of the north,” where the sun graces the sky around the clock for an entire month. Consider experiencing the midnight sun amidst the dramatic islands of Senja, Ringvassøya, and Kvaløya or head to Sommarøy, where the locals embrace a “time-free zone” during summer due to continuous daylight. The alpine Lyngenfjord region close to Tromsø offers a paradise for hiking, fishing, and cycling beneath the bright night sky.

Finnmark

Reach the northernmost point on mainland Norway in Finnmark, where midnight sun enthusiasts often converge at the North Cape. However, Finnmark county, renowned for its king crab kingdom, boasts expansive untamed landscapes. Along the coast, explore glaciers, fjords, and large islands like Sørøya and Seiland. The Varanger area, in the far east, is a hotspot for world-class birdwatching, while Finnmarksvidda, Norway’s largest mountain plateau, offers a glimpse into the Sami culture, particularly evident in Karasjok and Kautokeino.

Svalbard

Discover the Svalbard Islands, situated halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, home to the iconic polar bears. Here, the sun graces the sky almost continuously throughout the summer. Longyearbyen, the modern town, provides a hub for cultural activities, dining, and entertainment. Delve into the Arctic nature, rich wildlife, and historic mining towns by venturing into the wild (always accompanied by an armed guide).

Capturing the Midnight Sun Through the Lens

The golden glow, a hallmark of the midnight sun, remains etched in the memories of many. To maximize the impact of this unique lighting, consider these photography tips:

Tip 1: Simplify Your Composition

With colors more vivid in the midnight sun, focus on simplicity. Concentrate on two or three colors at most to avoid clutter in your images.

Tip 2: Utilize Foreground Elements

Incorporate foreground elements to frame subjects in mid and deep fields, adding a sense of three-dimensionality to your photographs.

Tip 3: Optimize Composition for the Sky

Position the horizon a third of the way from the bottom in your viewfinder to exploit the light sky’s impact on the landscape, assisting your camera in proper exposure.

Embark on a journey into the enchanting world of Norway’s midnight sun, where each region offers a distinct and captivating experience beneath the perpetual glow of the Arctic summer nights.