Nestled between the mountains and ocean, Bodø is a small town in Northern Norway that boasts some of the country’s most beautiful scenery. Now, all eyes are on the town in a new way, as it was recently named a European Capital of Culture for 2024. It’s the first time this recognition has been given to a city north of the Arctic Circle. Check out the June 2022 issue of Viking to learn about how Bodø is preparing for a full year of culture and arts celebrations.
The Midnight Sun is one of the most unique aspects of Northern Norway. For adventure seekers, it means fun can be had in glowy, soft light for 24 straight hours. Here are a few electrifying ways to make the most of it.
Hike
Take advantage of the extended light and trek along a scenic path. Keep it casual on a beach, or kick it up a notch by ascending a mountain peak—or even a glacier.
Ride
Island hop by bike along the Helgeland coast. You can go it alone or hook up with a tour group. Mountain bikers will be stoked with the landscape around Lyngenfjord and the city of Narvik. In Finnmark, you can traverse mountain plateau and grab some shut-eye in the lodges dotted along the way. More passive thrill-seekers will like hitching a ride on a gondola, such as Fjellheisen in Tromsø and Narvikfjellet Cable Car in Narvik.
Paddle
Rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard or rowboat and meander through Norway’s famous archipelagos and fjords. Go it alone or join a guided tour.
Cruise
Embark on a Midnight Sun cruise with one of Scandinavia’s many tour operators. Two popular options are Hurtigruten or Havila. Both help you take in Norway’s stunning coastline and fjords through a variety of guided tours and activities. Partake in a whale-watching excursion to see the giants of the sea (and other wildlife) in the night’s light.
Whirl
Adrenaline junkies must experience the world’s strongest tidal current, Saltstraumen. About every six hours, 400 cubic meters of tidal water speeds at 20 knots to force its way through the narrow strait that connects the outer Saltenfjord with the Skjerstadfjord. The action whips up 30-feet-wide whirlpools that are about 15 feet deep.