Travelling north on a road trip above north polar Norway is simply a beautiful and unforgettable experience. The natural beauty all around you is immense. There is just so much to see on such a grand scale that much of it takes your breath away.
Driving in winter up there can be quite dangerous, especially if you’re not used to the region, the changing weather and conditions. As we were going to be driving ourselves, my fiancé James and I decided that summer would be the preferred option. This was not just from a safety perspective, but also because more roads are accessible and the beauty of this region is just as wonderful as in winter, just in a different way.
In global terms, we are not talking about a region that a lot of people actually get to. Of the billions of people that populate the Earth today, only 4 million people in total reside in the Arctic Circle across the 8 countries of Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark (Greenland), Russia, Canada and the United States (Alaska) and Iceland (just barely as the circle includes the small offshore island of Grímsey that has a population of 61!).
Although having a relatively small human population, we are not referring to a tiny area. The Arctic Circle is around 16,000 km (9,900 mi) long whereas the area north of the Circle is about 20,000,000 km2 (7,700,000 sq mi) and covers roughly 4% of Earth’s surface.
Here I am sharing some of the highlights of our amazing trip undertaken in the northern part of Norway. This is our story together with some photos that I hope might inspire you to likewise visit this wondrous part of the world.
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Saltfjellet–Svartisen National Park
We entered the arctic circle as we were driving through this 2,102 square kilometres (812 sq mi) park, one of the largest national parks in Norway. The Saltfjellet–Svartisen Park stretches from the coast to the Swedish border.
While driving up the European Highway E6, we stopped into the visitor centre which provided a lot of useful information on the park.
Saltfjellet is an actual mountain range and the area is known for hunting and fishing. The Park’s lakes offer fine trout and char fishing. If interested in these activities, hunting and fishing licenses are required.
The wildlife is diverse, and the mountain has plenty of space to the large animals, that need the space around them to thrive. Moose, Reindeer, Lynx and the Arctic fox are common animals in the area. There is also a small number of bears and wolf on the mountain ranges. There are records of about 120 bird species in the park including Golden Eagle, Gyrfalcon, Eagle-Owl and Snowy Owl.
Svartisen Glaciers, which covers an area of 370 km ² forms a major part of the national park. The glacier actually consists of two parts: Western glacier that is 221 km2, and eastern glacier that is 148 km2. The highest mountain top is 1751 meters (5744 ft) and the glacier is as thick as 450 meters.
Here you can participate in glacial walks and cave exploration. A wide range of marked trails attracts hikers from everywhere. Accommodation in unstaffed tourist cabins is also available, many of which are old log cabins and mountain farms used by the tourist association and open to the public.
Even just driving along the E6 as we headed further north, offered such fabulous scenery.
The Arctic Circle Center
The Arctic Circle Center (or the Norwegian name: Polarsirkelsenteret) is situated within the Saltfjellet mountain range at approx. 670 Metres (2198 ft).
The Center was officially opened on July 13, 1990, at the same time as the (then) new E6 highway across the Saltfjellet mountains was completed. It serves the many tourists at the point where the Arctic Circle crosses the landscape. The Center is open for the season from May 1 to September 1.
Inside the Centre, you will find a cafeteria serving North Norwegian fare, a cinema and exhibition hall with information about the Arctic Circle, and a large, very well-stocked souvenir shop.
The first time we dropped in at the centre was on the way north and we arrived at around 8.00 pm when it had already closed. It was still light then so looked around for a short while before continuing our journey to Bodo. On the way travelling back south later, we did spend some time at the centre, exploring the vicinity, learning more about the region and having some lunch consisting of traditional Norwegian fare.
The Midnight Sun
Having crossed the Arctic Circle, we witnessed a controversial phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun. The further north we travelled, the more prominent this became, completely dominating the night sky.
We not only found this to produce such a beautiful golden glow over the landscape, but it also affected our internal body clocks and the ability to feel tired and get to sleep.
Check out the dedicated article I wrote about this, including a number of photos and interesting facts around the fascinating Midnight Sun. It really is quite a unique experience to those of us not living in the polar regions.
Do have a look at the best photos we took of the midnight sun which are featured in a dedicated article on this wondrous natural phenomenon we experienced in Norway.
The region around Bodø
One of the stops we made on our journey was in the town of Bodø, with a population of below 50,000. It is the major centre for this region of Norway and the launch point to sail to the Lofoten Islands.
We stayed with a lovely family there who not only helped us obtain passage for us and our vehicle across to Lofoten, but they also took us to the summit of the mountain plateau overlooking the entire area.
Their home had beautiful views of the nearby arctic mountain ranges which we enjoyed very much as we ate and drank with them on their back porch.
Keiservarden
Lying just 366 meters (1,201 feet) above sea level is Keiservarden, a mountain plateau on top of Veten hill. This provides an amazing 360-degree view over mountains, the water, the city of Bodø and the silhouette of the mountain range on the Lofoten Islands across the Vestfjorden.
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This is understandably a very popular spot for hikers and only very few vehicles are permitted to drive up here. Our host happened to be a member of the local paragliders association and had access, so we were able to drive there, following his car.
While enjoying such wonderful views in summer here, it was still so cold and there was lots of wind as well so we ensured we stayed in warm clothing. Our host was actually a paragliding champion and had launched from this spot a number of times in the past. He pointed out the distant mountain ranges as well as the islands that he had been all the way out to. Impressive indeed. He also pointed out that paragliding over the water here did not require you to be able to swim any longer than 20 minutes, irrespective of where you made a water landing. The reason? He explained that this was because if you hadn’t managed to get out of the water by that time, you would have succumbed to hypothermia leading to death.
We enjoyed our time here and I share a few images we took below:
Lofoten Islands
Our next stop within the Arctic Circle Norway was one I had been looking forward to for a while. The Lofoten Islands were always going to be one of the main highlights of our time in Norway.
We departed Bodø via a Hurtigruten cruise ship which also carried our car in its hold. Spending time on the deck and in lounges during some 4 hours cruising such scenic waters was a relaxing and delightful experience.
Arriving there and disembarking to drive through the main islands in this archipelago was a real treat. There is just too much to include here so please do have a look at the dedicated post on the Lofoten Islands for greater detail and images.
Narvik
Due to the fact that the main islands of the Lofoten Islands archipelago were connected by a series of bridges, we were actually able to drive back to the mainland and onto Narvik from there.
Narvik was a really lovely town and the furthest point north of the arctic circle Norway that we reached before we started to make our way south again.
As described on the Visit Narvik website: “Narvik is situated between steep mountains and narrow fjords. With an astonishing, arctic nature as a backyard, the city offers a wide range of activities and experiences bot in winter and summer. The combination of spectacular arctic scenery with dramatic World War II history and the Arctic Ofoten railway makes this a unique destination.”
We stayed in another lovely place here overlooking the river and being very close to town. We took time to visit the Narvik memorial area to the conflict in World War II which was in a very lovely spot. There we briefly met with a couple in with a caravan that had travelled all the way from Germany. It had taken months for them to reach Narvik and they were loving every bit of Norway.
Heading back south
As we eventually headed back south, the highway initially took us parallel to the railway tracks, following the river for quite a way and showing us even more scenic sights that Norway is so famous for.
After leaving Narvik and the World War II Memorial, we proceeded to drive south to Trondheim, again stopping off at the Arctic Circle Centre on the way.
This drive was so lovely and we enjoyed leisurely taking in the numerous wonderful sights as we came across mountains, waterways, waterfalls, wildlife as well as lovely villages and towns on the way. Our trip took us on open roads through valleys, mountain tunnels and sailing on the ferries that bridged the gaps of the highway between rivers.
During the trip, we also came across wildlife that was abundant in the north polar Norway region which we photographed. Here are a couple of examples:
Along the way, we noticed so many other people from all over Europe and the world likewise travelling to see the beautiful wonders that exist north of the arctic circle Norway.
We took such a lot of photos on this trip and it would be impossible to share them all here. However, I have included a few below from our drive back south before we crossed back out of the Arctic Circle.
Making the trip north of polar zone Norway during summer was not only the safest option, but it was also a very beautiful one. One that I will always remember with fond memories, experiences that I am so grateful for and that will never leave me.
What’s your impression of the Arctic Circle Norway?
Is travelling on a road trip north of polar Norway something you have done or would like to do as well? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Outdoor adventure enthusiast that loves nature having travelled locations across North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia.
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We have driven within the artic circle before but in Iceland and not yet Norway. This is next on our bucket list. You’re right about the the sceneries looking so beautiful and otherworldly. Visiting the Artic is really an experience that’s incomparable to any other region in the world, and Norway looks every bit of stunning!
I couldn’t agree more, Marielle. Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts.
This is such an adventurous trip, I love it! Although warm is not one of the words that came to mind, traveling within the Arctic Circle must have been an incredible experience. The arctic circle center has to be a huge bucket list item for so many travelers, and I might make it mine too! I especially find the Midnight Sun concept to be particularly interesting. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much, Chloe. It certainly was an adventurous trip and although very cold in places, we were lucky to have a great heater in the car and in places where we stayed. The midnight sun was definitely a highlight and an unforgettable experience. Just loved this trip.
Wow, such an out of the world experience! All the places seem so stunningly beautiful. I have to admit I got excited just by looking at the first two maps you shared towards the beginning. Then following your story was also exciting. Although… I wish I could pronounce all the names correctly, haha.
I have to agree that some of the Norwegian names are very challenging to pronounce for us foreigners, Pubali. Nevertheless, I’m so pleased that, despite the actual names, that you enjoyed this post for the beauty and excitement that our trip encompassed. Thank you very much for reading and leaving your comment.
Excellent post. I was thinking of driving the Dalton Highway in Alaska, but the fact that there is basically nothing – no people, no gas stations – and just potholes and huge trucks had me shy away from this. It seems a trip in Norway is a safer option.
From the point of view of the route we took, this is very true Rudy. However, there are more remote roads and locations you can also explore in Norway as well, should you choose to do so. However as you can see, you don’t have to go somewhere completely remote above the Arctic Circle in Norway in order to enjoy a beautiful space and wonderful time. So pleased you liked this post.
Beautiful pictures. I would love to visit there again. I went on a post boat to Kirkenes in 1992s and loved it, particularly the area around the Lofoten. My dream is to return on a small sailboat in summer or see the polar lights but now this puts a road trip idea in my head too
The small sailboat sounds like quite an adventure on its own Anja! How great would it be to combine that with a road trip as well? Either way, I’m sure you would have a wonderful time.
Oh wow! This truly looks like a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! I dream of going to places like this, but honestly, I don’t think I could handle the cold! LOL!
It’s not that bad Michelle, provided you make sure you have a good heater in your vehicle, appropriate clothing, and warm sleeping arrangements. The rest is getting out and enjoying the adventure!
What a wonderful post on exploring the Arctic gems! The fjords, valleys, fishing, the midnight sun, and the beautiful ranges, it would be a dream to explore this region from close quarters. Like how you have summarised the entire experience like a journey!
Thanks so much, Aradhana. It was indeed a dream come true for us to make this trip and I’m so happy you like how I have shared our experience here.
I don’t know why but I never thought a trip such as this one was ever possible. It all looks so cool and mind-blowing. I am in awe of all this. Thank you for sharing and broadening my global mind.
My pleasure Merveille! I’m so pleased you liked this and got value from it. I didn’t always know such a trip would be possible either, but I’m so glad to have gone there and seen this first hand.
My dislike for cold weather steers me away from the Artic Circle, but your description and photos of the area make me want to venture out and take the road trip! That view from the home is Bodø is just stunning. I would love having such a wonderful view from my back porch. A stop at the Artic Circle Center would be a must and all those Reindeer themed meal options sound delicious. It looks like the trip is well worth it, despite the cold!
It really is worth pushing through any dislike of the cold to do this type of road trip, Melissa. My only tip though would be to test that your vehicle’s heater works really well before heading off! Ours worked just fine and it meant that we could view some fabulous scenery while driving and know that when we got out to explore, we put on our jackets and that when we got back to the car, the heater would kick in again. Yes, that was an outstanding view from the back porch and we did enjoy the novelty of seeing all the reindeer dishes available. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Very impressive and informative write-up! Believe Arctic Circle is on the bucket list of most of us. It is so geographically unique. Your write-up is going to be very handy whenever we plan for a trip to this unique place. I am amazed that there are so many things to do! Spotting reindeer is so cool! Narvik also seems to be a great place to visit. I loved your photos. Thanks for sharing!
I am so happy that you liked this post Jayati and that it will be useful to you in planning your trip. It is indeed a bucket-list destination with some lovely towns and people that make you feel so welcome. Thank you so much for leaving your comment and sharing your thoughts.
Wow – what a great experience and I would love to visit the Arctic Circle one day, especially to visit some of the national parks as well. Such Epic scenery, your pictures really show this. Great post.
Thank you so much, Lisa. Your comment is really appreciated.
Wow! I’m impressed with your road trip here. The views are spectacular, especially in Bodo. Activities in the area are very adventurous, too. I don’t think I want to try the paragliding. Hehe… And how was the reindeer stew?
I wouldn’t be game enough to try paragliding there either Umiko – just not that brave! I’ll stick with admiring the breathtaking scenery… James said the reindeer stew tasted a bit ‘gamey’ but otherwise wasn’t too different from beef.
Ohh wow! What an immensely beautiful part of the world. A road trip above the arctic circle Norway is definitely one for the bucket list. Love all your photographs especially of the mountains. Everywhere looks so clean – Navik looks pretty indeed. Hope I get to visit this part of the world one day.
It is indeed so beautiful Georgina and nature there is just pristine. The towns and villages are lovely, as are the local people. Thank you very much for sharing your impressions of this trip.
I agree that living within the Artic Circle, I too would never get sick of the views. Though, I may get sick of the cold cause I hate the cold. With that said, I have always wanted to explore Tromso! So, this road trip above the Arctic Circle in the summer sounds perfect for me cause I could get the amazing views you caught in Saltfjellet–Svartisen Park, Bodo, & Narvik while not totally freezing to death! Love all the reindeer you saw too! How fun!
It sure was a lot of fun Eric! I’m not necessarily a huge fan of the cold myself but just couldn’t pass up the opportunity of taking this trip while visiting various places in Europe. It’s an experience I would recommend to almost everyone.
I wanna see snow and those mountains! The photos are breathtakingly beautiful!
Thanks so much, Michele. Happy that you enjoyed the post.
Wow, I love all of the photographs that you have in this post! I believe it adds a lot of value, especially for someone like me who likes to really see a place to get the best mental view. I’d love to go up within the arctic circle to see places like these, but I’m a bit adverse to the cold weather. Alas, it sure looks worth the chill
It most certainly is worth the chill Joseph! I think you would enjoy seeing this in person if you love the photos included here. Thanks so much for reading and commenting.
Love the pictures, it wouldn’t be out of place in iceland. Very similar landscape. Never really heard much about this area. Thank you.
I’m so pleased you learned something about this region of Norway, Nicole, and really appreciate that you love the images shared here. Thank you for reading and sharing your impressions.
That’s a great post!! I am a Norway stalker and fan. I have been to Tromso and it was a magical experience. I would definitely want to go back and explore more because there is so much see and experience!! Thanks for sharing this post.
My pleasure Pinkie – certainly worth going back to explore and experience more!
Wow what a gorgeous road trip! I was supposed to go to Norway this past summer before COVID hit, hopefully I’ll get to replan and use your notes when I finally get to go. I’ve never heard of the term midnight sun, but had a similar experience in New Zealand and my husband and I kept missing dinner because of the late arrival of night fall. I totally agree with you, it’s def throws you off balance with sleep schedule. Thanks for your post!
You are so welcome Chrissi. Really sorry to hear your planned trip had to be postponed and I hope that this post can be of some help in re-planning your journey. The Midnight Sun is quite magical and definitely worth the experience, along with the rest of what the arctic regions have to offer.
wow! it looks so beautiful, so magical and so cold! Thanks for sharing, I am not sure if I ever see it with my own eyes
Thank you very much Lyosha. I’m so pleased you enjoyed this and I hope you might be able to see it yourself one day.
These pictures are absolutely gorgeous, Norway does indeed sounds and looks mesmerizing but oh my I don’t know if I could stand the extremely cold temperatures, I’m from a really warm and tropical country
I can relate to what you are saying Rochelle, but if you travel during the summer and wear the appropriate clothing, it’s not too bad at all. It is really worthwhile to visit at least once. Thank you for your comment on the photos.
What a journey!!!! I’d love to go on an adventure like that in the future as well! Haven’t been in that part of the world yet. I also love each of your pictures!!
Thanks very much, Christian, so pleased you liked this.
I’ve been to Norway on Lofoten Islands, but Arctic Circle is still on my dream list. So far, I have crossed It in Canada and Alaska. We are planning such a trip around Norway in an RV. We are planning a road trip above the Arctic Circle in Norway, so I would like to use your tips and experience. The Arctic Circle Centre is on my list too. The Midnight Sun is extraordinary. And I had a problem with sleeping. But it was great to read a book in the middle of the night.
Well technically Agnes, you have visited the Arctic Circle if you have been to the Lofoten Islands, as these are situated just above the Arctic Circle. Having said that though, I would also add that a road trip within this region is definitely a great idea to get to see so much more of this beautiful region. Best wishes to you for a fabulous road trip.
Looking at this post, I feel like packing my bags and go to Norway. With so many breathtaking views and sumptuous food, this place is a heaven.
I’m sure you will love the scenery so much more in person, Mayuri. Thank you very much for reading and sharing your comment.
There’s such beautiful scenery there, I think it must be a proud moment to visit the Arctic Circle Center and take a photo there… Glad that you have a nice trip and I hope to be there one day too 🙂
That’s great to hear Ken. Hope you have a wonderful trip also.
What a fantastic experience!! I would love to check out the Arctic Circle. Definitely bookmarking these tips for the future.
Thanks, Kristina. It’s great to know that you enjoyed this and that it will be of help to you when planning your trip.
This was an eye-opening post! I had no idea this area was developed with so many roads, bridges, and towns. The landscapes are breathtaking!
I know what you mean Jenn. Many people also have the idea that the arctic region is completely undeveloped – and of course, it is for the most part. Our trip here though shows that there are some very beautiful areas that are very accessible to anyone. Thanks so much for reading and leaving your comment.
Wow. The arctic circle. What an amazing experience!
Thanks, Angela – pleased you enjoyed this post. It was indeed quite special.
The arctic circle looks beautiful and peaceful, but I don’t think I would like the cold temperature. The reindeer stew and Norwegian food looks great!
Provided you dress accordingly, it really isn’t too bad Mary. The food is quite good and it is always worth trying something new or different from what most of us are used to.
Wow! Your photos are absolutely stunning. This would have been such an incredible experience to visit the arctic circle. I was close to it in Canada once – but not quite there! I made it as far as Yellowknife and even that was a fun northern experience with the midnight sun. I would so love to visit Norway someday. The entire country has so much amazing history. This would have been an incredible trip. Thank you for bringing us along – especially this year where we are all living through each other’s travels <3 Wonderful post as always!
Thank you so much for such a lovely comment, Meg – it really makes my day! I’m sure the region above the Arctic Circle in Canada would offer so much in the way of natural beauty as well. The midnight sun was something I was really fascinated with. Hopefully, we may all be back to being able to travel safely again fairly soon.
Wow! wow! wow! I am so jealous of this! Thanks for all of the ideas! One of these days I WILL make it to Norway!
That’s the spirit Angie! I would say that making a plan to get there is definitely worthwhile. So pleased you liked what was included in this piece.
Reindeer Stew looks so yummy! I haven’t tried it yet. I have heard a lot about Saltfjellet–Svartisen National Park. I wish I can go here once pandemic is over.
I’m not sure too many people would think of the Reindeer dish first when considering everything there is on offer above the arctic circle Emman, but yes, the Saltfjellet-Svartisen National Park definitely is worth exploring for sure. Thanks for reading and sharing your comment.
Wow, what an adventure! I honestly never even considered a trip into the Arctic Circle but you have opened up my eyes to what a beautiful region it is!
Thank you very much, CJ. This area is visited by relatively few tourists when you take the rest of the world into account. Those who do get there all seem to be in complete agreement with how wonderful this region is.
Everything about this place is impressive! I haven’t thought about visiting Norway but seeing how breathtaking it is makes me want to visit and see Lofoten Islands myself.
The Lofoten Islands were such a highlight for us, Denise. So beautiful, pristine, and not over-run by tourists made it all the more special.
Norway is incredible. Photos are mesmerizing. I can’t even imagine your emotions when you saw it all in reality. Just super. Being in the arctic circle is very cool!
Thank you so much Boris for such a lovely comment. It is indeed a very special and momentous feeling to be able to see the wondrous sights there. It is certainly something I don’t take for granted.
Oh my gosh this looks absolutely amazing. We are outdoors types of people so this is our ideal breakaway. That bridge looks insane and love the marker point too x
Visiting Norway and being up north really called to me as well, Michelle. It is such a fabulous place to explore and thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts.
Wow looks beautiful but I don’t think I could stand the cold. I’d have to go in summer, like you did. I think things turned cold here and it only drops to 52F lol!
There are some great jackets etc that really do keep you very warm in such climates, Di, even though it might be freezing all around you. You then can hop into a car (and they all have effective heaters) before heading to your next destination. The cold can be managed quite well and of course, going in summer means there is not the same level of cold.
wow! looks like a dream and a plan to me. awesome
Thanks Lyosha, happy that you like this.
You’re brave, that’s for sure. I prefer summer in the Arctic too lol. If I get stuck, chances are I can be reached before I freeze.
Provided you only go on adventurous treks with people who know the terrain, you should be quite safe, Kemi. Summer of course would be generally safer and is often just as rewarding.
Wow! What a trip. This actually been on my list too. Backpacking around to reach the most isolated points. The midnight sun is always something I’ve wanted to experience.
I’m sure you would love a trip there Komal as there are many quite remote spots that offer such stunning and unspoiled scenery and the people are so welcoming and friendly. The midnight sun is definitely something special to experience as well.
This sounds absolutely EPIC! I love Norway and I’d love to go back and explore the north of the country, it looks like there’s a lot to keep you busy!
There definitely is Bethan! Plus the more time you have there, obviously the more you will be able to see. Hopefully, your love of Norway will see you return and explore more in the future.
This looks like such an incredible road trip, something that I would love to experience at least once in my life. I knew about the concept of the midnight sun, but it’s something else to see the pictures and realize just how bright it actually was… Definitely worth investing in some high-quality blackout curtain for your trailer or RV before heading out! Lol
That’s for sure Britt, or it can be so hard for your body to switch off and get to sleep! It certainly is somewhere worth experiencing and I’m so pleased you liked this post.
I loved Norway, especially in the north. I have been to that beautiful country only once and I fell in love with it. I visited Tromso and the experience was just out of the World. I am sure you would have had such a great time taking the road trip. I could not take the road trip, unfortunately. This is really awesome and by the way, I love your pictures.
Thank you so much, Raksha. There is just no doubting that this region is just a beautiful part of the world and it’s so great to hear you loved your time in Tromso. Norway generally is such a lovely country with so many fabulous places to visit.
Norway is breathtakingly beautiful! I am originally from Finland, and travel there every year, so this post made me miss home. I have not been to this arctic circle center but I have travelled above the arctic circle around Norway, Sweden and Finland. It is always equally exciting. In Finland you can even cross the arctic circle under ground by visiting underground tunnel.
That sounds like an interesting experience in Finland, Paula. So good that you have been able to explore a number of locations above the arctic circle and I hope to be able to return before too long.
Taking a Road Trip above the Arctic Circle in Norway must be great thing to do as I love road trips and that too here in this beautiful location. Good to know that the Saltfjellet–Svartisen Park stretches from the coast to the Swedish border and whole area is looking lovely with blanket of snow. Those reindeer are looking very cute and it must be great to spot them in between. Hiring motorhomes here, I guess is really best way to explore.
So many people were on the road throughout Norway in motorhomes while we were there, Yukti. They are definitely available for hire and there are also many people that live in Europe that bring their own across the border into Norway. Something worth planning a trip for and I hope you love the region as much as we did.
What a special trip and I have been to Lapland for Northern Lights, not moving around in the arctic circle though. I would also love to visit Svalbard.
Svalbard would definitely be a special experience as well, Kenny. Thanks for reading and sharing your thoughts.
You are so brave in taking this journey! It looks amazing realizing how close each continent is to the others when viewing the North Pole map!
That is an amazing map showing the top perspective, Blair. In Norway, it is really very safe though in this region, especially in summer. Provided you don’t take any risks, it is really a safe and beautiful option for a road trip.
I’d love to visit. I wouldn’t like to live in the cold, but it’s nice sometimes to visit.
So many would agree with your sentiment here, Rosey. Its immense beauty is something that is nevertheless worth seeing.
WOW! This is so cool! What a unique opportunity and experience.
Thanks, Neely. Happy to hear you liked this.
Wow, I would love to be able to travel to Norway one day, to experience this all for myself.
Hopefully, the pandemic will not last too much longer Emily and you will be able to plan your own trip there.
Nice post! I’m sure the weather was so brisk and fresh as well.
It was Nkem and I’m so pleased you liked the post.
Hey Nicole! When did you take this trip? How is the weather like this time of the year or let’s say end of October? I am somewhere really hot right now and would love to do some winter road trips. But first, need to research if Norway accepts entry to tourists. Thanks for your tips!
This trip was taken in the summer prior to the pandemic, Cristina. The weather during the summer period is generally very good with clear skies and pleasant days. In terms of entry while we are still dealing with COVID, that is something you will need to research more closely depending on when you hope to visit. Best wishes to you in your endeavors here and I hope you enjoy your trip as much as we did.
Wow, it looks absolutely dreamy there. Constantly on the lookout for new places to travel to, this one is definitely going on my travel list now!
Kileen
Thanks Kileen – so pleased you enjoyed this and are looking to experience this for yourself. Hope you have a wonderful trip.
Wow quite an enticing road trip. Well Norway is on my bucket list but didn’t imagine a road trip. Your article makes me rethink whether I should go for a road trip, it’s so fabulous.
Doing a road trip I think is the best way to go here Kuntala, simply because you get to see so much more at such close range. So pleased you like the post and the road trip idea as well.
That would be such an amazing adventure! I’ve traveled to a lot of places, but I’ve never been to a place like this before. How many people can say they’ve been to the arctic circle?
It’s true that relatively few tourists visit areas above the arctic circle Surekha, but those that do so in Norway all seem to agree it is such a worthwhile experience. It is quite easy to get to and enjoy and perhaps not too many people realize that.
I love going on road trips, especially to more distant destinations like northern Norway. It is a good way to travel now also given the prevailing corona situation. It looks like you had a fantastic experience up in the Norwegian arctic region.
I guess that’s a good point that this region might be a great area to visit now, although we did this in the summer prior to the pandemic and would recommend it irrespective. We did have a fabulous time and loved every moment there.
We went north of the arctic circle – in summer. I would have to think about whether I would want to do this road trip in winter. Especially in an area like this where we might be unfamiliar. At least we are Canadians and have dealt with snow before! It would be great to see wildlife – from a distance! Exploring the glacier and caves is definitely an activity we would do on this kind of trip. Maybe this year we can practice some winter activities at home in Canada and be prepared for a trip like this!
I agree that visiting Norway’s area above the arctic circle in the winter would be a whole different prospect Linda, with many areas not being accessible by road. Whilst many of us are not strangers to being in environments of ice and snow, not everyone would choose to do so during their vacation. Having said that, this region is popular for many who also love to chase the northern lights at night, as well as explore this white wonderland during the day. Great suggestion of yours for you to practice in Canada should you wish to give this a go in the future.
This must have been quite an interesting road trip. Never thought it would be possible. I thought they don’t even have roads there, but it seems I was wrong. Saltfjellet–Svartisen National Park reminds me a lot about Alaska (not surprisingly!): the same kind of vegetation, wild mountains and timid sunlight light (although the sun shines till midnight, lol!). It’s great that they have so much detailed information about things that you can see and do in the Park.
There are certainly many similarities with Alaska, Anda, in the beautiful scenery and accessibility is quite good (although many roads are not accessible in winter). In many areas above the arctic circle, the sun never sets in summer and produces a lovely golden light. The parks are also definitely worth exploring.
I’ve never thought about taking a cold weather road trip, but this seems perfect! I also love the map – I’m so used to seeing it from one perspective. The sides from a round is all I’ve seen. I love the top view as it really gives your road trip and the world in general such fab perspective. I hope to get to Norway someday!
I totally agree that the top view of the arctic circle is a great way to see how it all comes together across all the countries that are part of it, Jennifer. So pleased you liked this post and I also hope you get to Norway to see this lovely part of the world.
Traveling to the Arctic circle is one of my dreams. It is amazing in its own way. I absolutely loved that you mentioned some natural parks that can be visited in the area. I always love to go on at least one long hike wherever I go. I think that Saltfjellet would be perfect for me.
The midnight sun is another thing I’m dying to experience.
The region above the Arctic Circle is indeed very special, Lourdes, and one that I think most people would definitely appreciate. The National Parks are pristine and the Midnight Sun phenomenon during summer is really something to experience. Norway is a great choice to visit this wondrous region and thank you for sharing your thoughts here.