15 Apr Senja
Welcome to Senja
A Nature Lover’s Paradise: Senja is a beautiful island in Northern Norway, known for its stunning landscapes, fjords, mountains, and beaches.
In northern Norway, Senja is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. It is the second-largest island in Norway and boasts some of the most breathtaking awe-inspiring landscapes in the country. From towering mountains to serene fjords and white sandy beaches, Senja is a paradise for nature lovers. It is Norway’s second-largest island and an absolute paradise for nature lovers.
Hiking in the Mountains: We visited here in April, Norway’s springtime and the first thing that struck us was its stunning landscape, dominated by rugged mountains, fjords, and crystal-clear lakes. The island’s terrain is perfect for hiking, and we spent many hours exploring the numerous trails that wind through the mountains and forests.
Senja is home to some of Norway’s most spectacular mountains, including Segla and Keipen, which offer many well-marked trails leading to beautiful viewpoints. These peaks provide panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. Once at the top, you will be greeted with stunning views of the fjords and the mountains in the distance.
Fjord Cruises: One of the best ways to experience Senja’s beauty is by taking a fjord cruise. Picturesque fjords surround the island, home to various marine life, including seals, porpoises, and whales. The boat takes you through narrow fjords, past towering cliffs, and under cascading waterfalls; the scenery is breathtaking.
The island also has various wildlife, including seals, porpoises, and whales. By taking a fjord cruise, you will see these animals up close and some of Senja’s most spectacular natural landmarks, including the stunning Mefjord and Ersfjord.
How To Get There
Car: If you are coming from Tromsø, driving is the easiest way to get to Senja; taking approximately two hours to drive to Senja from Tromsø. The route involves taking the E8 and the RV86, which will take you to the bridge connecting the island to the mainland.
Bus: Alternatively, you can take a bus from Tromsø to Finnsnes, a town near Senja. The bus journey takes around 1.5 hours. From Finnsnes, you can take a local bus to Senja. The local buses operate on a limited schedule, so planning is essential.
Ferry: If you’re from the south or north, you can take a ferry to Senja. The ferry departs from Brensholmen and arrives at Botnhamn, located on the eastern coast of Senja. The ferry journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Once you arrive on Senja, renting a car to explore the island is recommended, as public transportation can be limited. Car rental services are available on the island, and many major rental companies have branches in Tromsø and Finnsnes.
Where To Stay
Senja Island has several accommodation options, including hotels, cabins, guesthouses, and campsites. Here are some popular options:
Mefjord Brygge: This hotel is located in the fishing village of Mefjordvær and offers stunning views of the surrounding fjords. It has a restaurant that serves local seafood and a wellness centre with a sauna and hot tubs.
Hamn i Senja: This resort is located on the eastern coast of Senja and offers a range of accommodation options, including cabins, hotel rooms, and apartments. It has a restaurant that serves traditional Norwegian cuisine and offers activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking.
Senja Fjordhotell: This hotel is located in the village of Finnsnes and offers rooms with fjord views. It has a restaurant serving local cuisine and a sauna for guests to relax.
Senja Camping: This campsite is located in the village of Skaland and offers cabins, tents, and RV sites for visitors. It has a restaurant and outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking.
Solberg Gjestestue: This guesthouse is located in the village of Bergsbotn and offers cosy rooms with a traditional Norwegian style. It has a restaurant serving local cuisine and a sauna for guests.
We highly recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season, as hotels and resorts can fill up quickly.
Where To Eat
Senja Island has several excellent restaurants and cafes that offer delicious Norwegian cuisine, especially seafood. Here are some popular options:
Bryggejentene Cafe: This cafe is located in the village of Mefjordvær and offers homemade pastries, cakes, and sandwiches. It’s an excellent spot for a quick bite or a coffee break.
Hamn i Senja Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the resort of Hamn and offers a range of Norwegian dishes with a focus on local seafood. It has a cosy atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding fjords.
Bortistu Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the village of Skaland and offers a variety of Norwegian dishes focusing on traditional, homemade cuisine. It’s a great spot to try local specialities like reindeer and fish.
Vertshuset Skarven: This restaurant is located in the village of Gryllefjord and offers a range of Norwegian dishes focusing on seafood. It has a cosy atmosphere and beautiful views of the nearby mountains.
Senjastua Cafe: This cafe is located in the village of Tungeneset and offers homemade cakes, waffles, and light meals. It’s an excellent spot for a break during a hike or a drive around the island.
Booking a table in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, as restaurants can fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
The island boasts majestic mountains and picturesque fjords, great for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Senja also has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional fishing villages and Sami settlements scattered throughout the island. When we arrived in Senja, we were struck by the island’s peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. The locals were friendly and eager to share their love of the island. We quickly realized that Senja is not just a beautiful destination but also a place filled with warm and inviting people.
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