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1. > edelasse

   "Finnmark"

   "http://fylkesmannen.no/fagom.aspx?m=1887" "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Stories/Norway/North/Finnmark/" "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Norway/North/Finnmark/Activities--Culture-in-Finnmark/" "http://www.finnmark.com/" winter activities: Snowmobile safaris Dog sledging trips Swimming in the Arctic A visit to the "Alta" Igloo Hotel A visit to "Kirkenes" SnowHotel King crab safaris (Prices: From NOK 990 for adults and NOK 495 for children) "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Theme/What-to-do/Safari/King-crab-safari/" Sami adventures Hunt for the northern lights A visit to "Nordkapp" Cookery courses Deep-sea fishing (Separate programme for Christmas and Easter) The following destinations provide adventures throughout the winter season: "Kirkenes", "Nordkyn", "Lakselv", "Karasjok" , "Nordkapp", "Hammerfest"/"Skaidi", "Alta". Norwegian Lapland has a world of adventures waiting for the summer tourist summer activities: Here are just a few of the activities on offer: Riverboat safari on the "Altaelva" River or to Boris Gleb on the Russian border Sami adventures Island hopping Bird safaris A visit to "Nordkapp" Wine tasting King crab safaris Deep-sea fishing Deep-sea rafting Sailing Salmon fishing Horse riding Workshop in one of the world's northernmost glass studios The following destinations have a programme of activities for the entire summer: "Alta", "Lakselv", "Nordkyn", "Nordkapp", "Berlevåg", "Vardø", "Vadsø", "Tana", "Kirkenes". All activities can be booked prior to departure or on arrival by 3 pm the day before the actual activity. In addition to these activities, there are several festivals throughout the year, for example Finnmarksløpet dog sledging race, the Easter Festival in "Kautokeino", the Deep-sea Fishing Festival in "Hasvik" and the King Crab Festival in "Vadsø". NB! Daily departures by direct flight from Oslo to "Alta" and "Kirkenes" all year round – a two-hour flight. Finnmark has airports in the following locations: Alta, Hasvik, Hammerfest, Honningsvåg, Lakselv, Mehamn, Berlevåg, Båtsfjord, Vardø, Vadsø and Kirkenes. Alta, Lakselv and Kirkenes are main airports with a well-developed network of flights to the outlying districts. The airports in Finnmark are serviced by Widerøe, Norwegian and SAS. By ferry and boat Hurtigruten (The Norwegian Coastal Voyage) The natural surroundings, the experience and the people you will meet on a voyage with one of the Hurtigruten's ships are hard to put into words. Take a long or a short trip; combine it with the use of your car, the bus or a plane. The Hurtigruten ships stop at 11 ports of call along the diverse coast of Finnmark: Kirkenes, Vadsø (only northbound), Vardø, Båtsfjord, Berlevåg, Mehamn, Kjøllefjord, Honningsvåg, Havøysund, Hammerfest and Øksfjord. Ferries/express boats There are boat services with several daily departures. These trips are well-suited for sightseeing. For additional information about routes and schedules, please contact FFR Veolia Transport. By bus Bus companies operating in Finnmark are FFR Veolia Transport and Nordtrafikk. FFR Veolia has services across the entire county of Finnmark, whilst Nordtrafikk operates in central Finnmark. The North Norwegian Service has daily departures, except on Saturdays, from "Narvik" to Alta. There are also bus routes from Rovaniemi/Ivalo to Tana Bru, Vadsø, Kautokeino, Karasjok (daily, all year round), Lakselv and the North Cape.
   1. "Pasvik" "http://www.pasvik-inari.net/neu/eng/culture_population.html" * Øvre Pasvik National Park Visitor Centre, Botanical Garden, Svanvik Chapel, the longest gamme in the world, Sør-Varanger Museum – Bjørklund farm (open in summer) * Sør-Varanger Museum – Strand Museum and Bear’s Den * Sør-Varanger Museum – Namdalen, Norwe- gian Settler’s farm (open in summer) Visit Pasvikdalen - the frontier valley between Norway and Russia. The valley is well-known for its diversity of plants and animals. You will find Pasvikdalen National Park there too, described as the place where the Siberian Taiga (the world’s biggest coniferous forest belt) comes to an end, together with Norway’s biggest stock of bears. Pasvikdalen is also a very interesting place for ornithologists. The Pasvik River flows from the greatest lake of Finnish Lapland, Lake Inari, and extends towards the Barents Sea on the border of Norway and Russia. The lush river valley forms a diverse habitat for various plant and animal species. The great wilderness areas surrounding the river contrast the diversity of the valley. In Vätsäri, the rugged, rocky wilderness area astonishes with its beauty. The species living in the harsh wilderness are required adaptations to extreme conditions. Even though, the small ponds, bogs and even the rockeries maintain life. The Pasvik River and the surrounding wilderness comprise a unique nature system where the European, Asian and arctic species meet. Some of these species reach here the ultimate limits of their existence. The historically remarkable Pasvik region is also a meeting point of different cultures. People have inhabited the riverbanks for centuries - hunted deer, reaped hay from the meadows, and fished. The river was an important channel from inlands to the Barents Sea along which trades from fur and wood to salt and tobacco were transported. Later, the battle for nickel found in Pechenga brought changes to the area when the rapids of the Pasvik River were needed for energy production to melt the nickel. Despite the changes the area has undergone, the river valley with its surroundings has preserved its natural values and the diversity of species. A cloudberry ripens in the wilderness, a bear paws an anthill and a Dipper swings on a rock in the Pasvik River. People arrive to the north The last Quaternary Ice Age finished in Inari - Paatsjoki area approximately 10 000 years ago. Then the climate changed drastically and the vegetation started to spread to the land which was rising, released from the pressure of a 3-kilometre thick ice cover. At first, Lake Inarijärvi was only a bay of the Arctic Ocean, but by land uplift it was isolated as a lake and the River Pasvik became its discharge into the sea. The first Stone Age settlement, representatives of the so-called Komsa culture, arrived in the Inari-Pasvik area possibly from the Ruija sea coast because the shoreline had been free from ice there longer than inland. When the second wave of settlement arrived in the area later on from the south and east, the North Calotte turned into a meeting place of three different populations. The oldest Stone Age dwelling sites around Lake Inari are dated to 8000 BC by radiocarbon dating taken from the charcoals of fireplaces and chewing resin. Dwellings sites from the banks of the Pasvik River are younger. The first Stone Age dwelling site in Pasvik River was found on the Russian side of the river, on Vaarlam Island (Vaarlamansaari/Niilansaari), in 1901. The richest and largest dwelling sites of Pasvik River are situated on the Norwegian side of the river, in Noatun. The rationing of Lake Inari and the building of hydraulic power stations have, without any doubt, destroyed several prehistorical sites, but many sites are certainly still waiting to be found. Annual cycle regulated daily life Small hunter-gatherer societies followed the moving animals and other sources of livelihood along the annual cycles. People travelled to the same comfortable dwelling sites for many centuries as their ancestors had done before them. In prehistoric times, watercourses were normal travelling routes in summer and winter, and Pasvik River formed a straight route from Lake Inari to the Arctic Ocean. In winter the moving population came together to the common settlement sites of Varangerfjord coast. Dwellings were partly dug into the ground and covered with turf roof. In springtime, the inhabitants of these winter villages spread into the smaller family groups who travelled to the different sites on which they could fish, hunt migrating birds and gather eggs. By summer, the groups had moved inland along the rivers and settled in the summer places where their main livelihood was fishing. In the autumn, people hunted wild deer. Many hunting pit systems found from the Pasvik River area exist still today and attest to the ancient hunting method which has been in use up to historical times. Tools and raw materials In the Stone Age, the raw material used for tools, such as scrapers, knives, arrowheads, hooks and axes were mainly different kinds of stones. Of course, objects were also manufactured from various kinds of organic materials, from bone, antler, wood and skin, but they cannot be found from the dwelling sites in the archaeological excavations anymore because the acid soil has made them disappear. Swamps can preserve the prehistoric organic materials, but there have been no Stone Age swamp finds in the Pasvik-Inari area so far. The ability to make pottery spread to the north through Carelia, Aunus and Southern Finland from central Russia. The arrival of pottery reflects probably changes in the Stone Age economy and society. The oldest finds can be dated to approximately 4700 BC in the Pasvik-Inari area. This so-called Säräisniemi I or Pasvik River type pottery was prepared in a wide area from Inari to the Kuola peninsula. The half egg-shaped vessels were decorated with various stamps, and their typical height was around 40 cm and cubic capacity 8-10 litres. New raw materials appear in the northern excavation material The Northern Early Metal Age (ca. 2000 BC - AD 300) refers to the Bronze Age and Early Iron Age in Fennoscandia. The period is characterised by more intensive networks of hunter-gatherers which can be seen in the use of various, wide-spread tools. Also the differences between inland and coast settlement diminished. The making of pottery became more widespread, and more local variations can be seen in the decoration of vessels. Also a new innovation spread from the south - the use of crushed asbestos fibres for the mixture of clay mass. In the Early Metal Age, most of the tools were still made of stone and organic materials. The main artefact type of this period is a wide-pointed arrowhead made of flint, quartz or quartzite. It is possible that along with these arrowheads a new type of bow also spread to Pasvik-Inari area but it cannot be proven because of the lack of evidence. Axes, bracelets and neck-rings made of bronze Few archaeological finds made of copper or bronze are found in the north. Most of these metal tools have been made elsewhere outside the area and came to the Pasvik-Inari area by trade. The earliest metal artefact found in the Pasvik-Inari area is the copper/bronze dagger or spearhead found at Karlebotn in Norway. Fragments of melting-pots used for casting of these points have also been found from the mouth of Pasvik River. The strong East European contacts can be seen in the northern archaeological material around 900-600 BC by the spreading of the so-called bronze tube axes. Additionally, contacts with the central Swedish societies can be seen in the spreading of bronze bracelets and twisted neck-rings. A couple of caches dated to this period have been found in the Pasvik-Inari area. The Lusmasaari Island cache in Lake Inari contained 4 neck-rings, 3 bracelets, a piece of bronze plate and an eastern-type tube axe. A metal object, probably a bronze razor was found in the Grense Jakobselv cache in Norway. The item was later on lost. These places are situated along the trade route which led from the Gulf of Bothnia along the rivers Kemi and Kitinen to Lake Inari and from there onwards to the Arctic Ocean. The Emergence of iron tools North Fennoscandian societies became familiar with iron metallurgy around 600 BC, but there are no signs of iron objects dated so early in the Pasvik-Inari area. Instead, a new type of pottery called Kjelmøy (a settlement site in South Varanger, Norway) appeared in the settlement material in a vast area from Ruija and Kola Peninsula to Jämtland in Sweden. Asbestos was still used as a mixture for the clay mass, and alternatively also mussel shells were used in Varanger. The Kjelmøy vessels were produced by new method of extending the clay over a log model. The northernmost smelteries from Kemijärvi and Rovaniemi in Finland produced simple, curved knives. Similar knives made from deer antler have also been found at the Kjelmøy site. This site is significant because its culture layers have surprisingly preserved numerous bone and antler tools, such as axes and chisels. The Early Metal Age in the north ends with the drastic change of material culture around AD 300 after which there are no traces of pottery making or iron metallurgy. From the Middle Metal Age to the Sámi Iron Age (AD 300 - 1300) The Middle Metal Age (AD 300 - 700) in the north is characterised by few finds - iron weapons and iron spearheads and axes obtained by exchange trade from abroad. There were not anymore such original types of artefacts, such as pottery types, on the basis of which the settlement places could be easily dated. But the situation changed around AD 700 - 800 onwards, when luxurious jewellery and tools could be found in the northern settlement sites and separate finds. Behind this economic boom was the exchange trade of fur and silver objects. Need of fur in Western Europe and in the East established vivid, long-distance trade contacts with northern societies. For archaeologists it is very difficult to determine the ethnicity of prehistoric cultures based on archaeological material alone. There is no doubt that people who lived in the north during prehistoric times are the forefathers of the present Sámi population of the area. On the other hand, it is very hard to determine when the prehistoric culture became the pre-Sámi or to Sámi culture as it can be understood today. The first evidence or reliable reflection of early Sámi culture can be seen by the emergence of a new settlement type in the north around AD 700. These settlements can be distinguished in the field from low, rectangular piles of stones which compose the fire-place. Usually there are not any visible signs of other structures around the hearth, meaning that people have probably lived in light, movable huts. Northern culture can be seen also in the early medieval references. The most important of them are the story of Norwegian peasant Ottar (890), Historia Norwegiae (1200) and Egil's saga (1200) in which the finns or skrithfinns have been described. During these times also the name lapp or lappi appears in the Swedish, Finnish and Russian references at the same time. On this basis the name might have meant Sámi people of the eastern Fennoscandia. Interest area of three empires Lapland was an area of great interest for many countries from the Middle Ages until the 17th century. The reasons for this were many: the vivid exchange trade, the need for new taxation areas and the desire for furs in Southern Europe. The first historical sources telling about Norwegian taxation of Sámi people were written by a lendmann Ottar, owner of a large farm in the 9th century. In Egils saga from the 12th century, it was mentioned that also Carelians and Finnish people called kainu started to tax in the Inari area. From the 13-14th century, the interest towards the domain of the Arctic Sea and Ruija coast arose among Novgorod, the rising power in the east, and the Swedish birkarls. During the 16th century, Lapland was divided into areas called Lapps, but these Lapps were not actually taxation areas. Thus, Sámi people living in Inari, Paatsjoki and Näätämö Lapp villages (siidas) had to pay taxes to three different countries in the worst case. Inari Sámi Inari Sámi have lived in one state and within one municipality, surrounding of Lake Inari, throughout the historic era. Other Sámi groups and Finns have settled in the Inari region later on. According to historic and remembered information as well as place names, the original living area of Inari Sámi has been more extensive. For instance, there are Inari Sámi place names and traditions concerning Inari Sámi inhabitation of the River Inari on the Norwegian and Finnish border. Nowadays, many Inari Sámi live outside the traditional living area in Finland and abroad. It is hard to estimate the Inari Sámi population. According to the census statistics, there are around 1000 Inari Sámi, but only 300 of them speak the Inari Sámi language. Skolt Sámi The traditional living area of Skolt Sámi in the Kola Peninsula has extended from Neiden to Pechenga (Petsamo) and to Tuuloma Lapland. The setting of boundaries between the three empires has many times brought difficulties to the Sámi way of life. An enormous change for Skolt Sámi was caused after the World War II, when Finland lost the area of Pechenga. As a result, Skolt Sámi lost their native lands in Pechenga, and they were resettled in the villages of Sevettijärvi and Nellim with the help of the Finnish Government in 1949. In terms of their language and traditions, they belong to the Eastern Sámi, and they are Orthodox in religion. It is estimated that there are around 700 Skolt Sámi in Finland today, but some 300 of them speak Skolt Sámi. Most Skolt Sámi live in the so-called Skolt Sámi area, which is situated in the eastern parts of the municipality of Inari and to the south, south-east and north-east of Lake Inari. In Russia, most of them have been colonised by the state to the area of Lovozero. In Norway, Skolt Sámi live around Neiden and Pasvik, but most of them are blended into the majority population. Northern Sámi Northern Sámi - also known as the reindeer or fell Sámi - have lived a nomadic life, migrating along with the reindeer herds. Reindeer economy spread to Lapland in the 17th century. The reindeer Sámi of Varanger area had their winter pastures in the surroundings of Lake Inari. In 1852, the closing of border between Norway and Finland caused dramatic changes to the migrating life. Since the 1860s, many reindeer Sámis moved to the Finnish side of the border with their herds and gradually multiplied the amount of reindeers in Utsjoki and Inari. As the ancient ways to the Arctic Sea coast were cut, the immigrants settled in the new areas around Lake Inari. Nowadays, there are around 30 000 speakers of the Northern Sámi language who live in Finland, Norway and Sweden. Finns, Norwegians and Russians Before the Middle Ages, the evasive Finnish, Norwegian and Russian tradesmen had vivid trade contacts with the Sámi population living in the area. At first, the tradesmen had also a right to collect taxes from Sámi people, but eventually taxation was totally organised by states of Sweden-Finland, Denmark-Norway and Russia. From the 17th century onwards, the laws and acts were made in each country to promote the spreading of peasant settlement northward. Gradually the border between the Sámi and other settlers vanished. Kvens The population of Inari area increased during the 18th century, but then the climate suddenly changed, crops failed, and famine and waves of diseases swept over the area. These incidents launched the immigration from Finland to the Norwegian Pasvik valley and Varangerfjord in the 1850s. Stories about huge catches of fish and about never-ending bread tempted people from Eastern Carelia, Kainuu, Ostrobothnia, Kittilä and Sodankylä. Norwegian authorities used the name kven for everyone who came from Finland, and even today this name is used by their descendants. In 1996, kvens were recognised as having minority status in Norway. Impacts of legislation on population in the 1800-1900s In the late 1800s, Norwegian authorities made initiatives to increase the Norwegian population in the Pasvik River valley because the area was almost dominated by Finnish immigrants. Many strategies were used: one of them was to invite people from southern Norway and encourage them to settle down and spread the Norwegian culture. Little by little, the Norwegian settlement gained foothold in the area; especially the nationwide settlement campaign of the 1920s succeeded. A new statute to settle the Kola coast was given in 1868 in Russia. The law promised advantages for settlers, such as releasing from taxes and military service, loans for trade and acquiring of land and household. At first the settlers and the Skolt Sámi coexisted peacefully, but soon the old domains of Sámi were occupied by others. The peace treaty of Tartto between the Soviet Union and Finland was signed in 1920, and Russia was obliged to surrender the Pechenga area to Finland. There were already many Finns living on the eastern side of the Pasvik River when the area belonged to Russia, but in the 1920s the vast settling and building of the area started. Contacts and trade along the river prospered until Finland lost Pechanga to Russia in the Second World War in 1944. Since then, the Pechenga area has belonged to Russia.
   2. "Kirkenes" "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Norway/North/Finnmark/Roundtrip-1---Eastern-finnmark/" With "Kirkenes" as your starting point, you can enjoy any number of excellent outings in Eastern Finnmark. In "Kirkenes", you can see the mines at "Bjørnevatn" or take a thrilling riverboat ride on the "Pasvik" River to the Norwegian-Russian border at Boris Gleb. Round trip in Eastern Finnmark Distance: 640 kilometres + the journey on Hurtigruten (The Norwegian Coastal Voyage) between "Vardø" and "Kirkenes". "Kirkenes" - "Neiden" - "Bugøynes" - "Varanger"botn - "Vadsø" - "Vardø" - "Hamningberg" - "Kirkenes" Moving westwards along the E 6, you will arrive in "Neiden", a Sami village with a number of interesting buildings. Proceeding along the E 6, you can take a detour to fascinating "Bugøynes", a tiny Finnish-speaking fishing village that has retained its pre-war architecture. If you carry on along the E 6, you will reach "Varanger" coastal Sami Museum. From there you can proceed along the road Rv 98 to "Vadsø" fascinating museum of the Finnish (Kven) influences on Finnmark's cultural history. On route to "Vardø", you will pass by the exceptionally beautiful island of "Ekkerøy" with its well-known bird rock. We recommend joining a mini-cruise with Hurtigruten (The Norwegian Coastal Voyage) from "Vardø" back to "Kirkenes", or westwards towards "Nordkapp". "Kirkenes SnowHotel"
   3. "Grense Jakobselv" From "Kirkenes", you can take the road Rv 886 to Grense Jakobselv. Here you can see King Oscar II’s chapel, one of the few churches that survived the scorched earth tactics during World War II, and the frontier posts on both the Norwegian and Russian sides of the border.
   4. "Neiden" , a Sami village with a number of interesting buildings.(Neiden kapell)
   5. "Bugøynes" , a tiny fascinating Finnish-speaking fishing village that has retained its pre-war architecture. Here the locals fish for king crabs, which are also known as Kamchatka crabs.
   6. "Varanger" If you carry on along the E 6, you will reach "Varangerbotn" , at the head of the "Varangerfjord" . Here you can visit the Varanger Sami Museum which documents the history of the local coastal Sami. "http://www.museumsnett.no/vsm/engelsk.html" Main building: Main exhibition "The Coastal Sámi" "Duodji"(Sámi art and handicraft) Temporary exhibitions of different kind Childrens room (opens spring 2003) Inggágoahti 9840 Vuonnabahta/Varangerbotn Tlf (+47) 78 95 99 20 Fax (+47) 78 95 99 30 E-mail: info@varanger-samiske.museum.no Outside the main building: culture/nature park with bird watching hide-outs.

      "Ceavccageaðge" / "Mortensnes"

      "http://www.museumsnett.no/vsm/mortensnes.html" "http://www.museumsnett.no/vsm/parken.html" "http://www.museumsnett.no/vsm/vsmengelsk/mortensnes.html" Cultural Site Area: One of the most abundant and distinctive cultural monument areas in Scandinavia. Guiding arranged by the museum. Åpningstider/billettpriser 2004 Hovedbygg i Vuonnabáhta/Varangerbotn: 20.juni-22.august 2004: daglig kl. 10.00-18.00 Resten av året: ma.-fre: kl. 10.00-15.00 Priser: Voksne: 40,- Barn/pensjonister: 20,- Grupper over 10: 20,- pr. pers. Barn under 7 år: gratis * Museumskafé * Museumsbutikk * Utendørs lekeplass * Tilrettelagt for handikappede Møterom til utleie - pristilbud fås ved henvendelse til museet Ceavccageaðge/Mortensnes kulturminneområde Infohallen vil være stengt sommersesongen 2004. Guiding kun på bestilling, pris etter avtale. Bestilling over telefon nr. 78 95 99 20 eller e-mail info@varanger-samiske.museum.no "Varangerhalvøya" National Park - the peninsula is the largest area within the Arctic climate zone on mainland Norway.
   7. "Vadsø" "King Crab Festival in Vadsø" From there you can proceed along the road Rv 98 to "Vadsø", where you will find a fascinating museum of the Finnish (Kven) influences on Finnmark's cultural history. Vadsø Museum / Ruija Kvenmuseum Hvistendahlsgate 31 9800 Vadsø Phone +47 78 94 28 90 Fax +47 78 94 28 99 Mobil +47 977 76 578 E-mail: post@varangermuseum.no Kjeldsenbruket Ekkerøy Phone +47 78 95 67 66 Tuomainen house Slettengate 21 Phone +47 78 95 23 07 Both of the protected main buildings of the museum and administration are situated in Outer Kvenby, a few hundred meters to the east of the center of Vadsø. The Tuomainen Farm is the heart of the Kvenmuseum, while in the Esbensen house we find the offices of the museum and the exhibitions. The Bietilæ house in Inner Kvenby, commenced in 1870, will after its restoration be a document of the maritime part of the Kven culture. Opening hours Esbensengården/Tuomainengården - outside summer season Weekdays from 10.00 - 15.00 Price: NOK 50 (30,-) / Children - free entrance Summer 2009: Esbensengården/Tuomainengården in Vadsø From June 21. - August 16. Monday - Friday 10.00 - 17.00 Saturday and Sunday 10 - 16 Entrance: NOK 50,- (30,-) / Children - free entrance Bietilæhouse in Vadsø June 23. - August 16. Tuesdays: 13.30 - 17.00 Sundays: 12.00 - 15.00 Entrance: NOK 20 / Children - free entrance Kjeldsenbruket in Ekkerøy From June 21. - August 16. Monday - Sunday: 12.00 - 18.00 Café with Norwegian "Vafler", coffee and ice cream. Entrance - exhibition NOK 20,- Vadsøya kulturpark June 23. - August 18. Guided walk in the culture park on the island - Vadsøya. Every tuesday at 12.00. Meeting point at the gate of the culture park. Entrance: NOK 50,- / Children - free entrance "Airships and boats" - our exhibition on the harbour is open every day when Hurtigruta arrives (7.30-8.30), and on request. Please contact the museum to make an appointment. (out September) Prices: NOK 50 for the museum in town; Esbensengården and Tuomainengården NOK 30 for one building (Either Esbensen or Tuomainen) NOK 20 Bietilæhouse NOK 20 for the exhibitions on Kjeldsenbruket NOK 20 for "Airships and boats" Permanent exhibitions “Kven yesterday – Kven today?” is shown in one of the rooms of Tuomainengården, a town farm. The exhibition tells the story of Kven immigrants and their lives in “Ruija”. It also takes up the question of what it is like to be a Kven today. “Airships and Boats” The exhibition “Airships and Boats” is shown at Øye on the Coastal Express quay (Hurtigrutekaia) and opens when the coastal express calls: 07:30 – 08.30, daily all summer. The exhibition can be opened on special request, please contact the Museum. This exhibition tells the story of Roald Amundsen’s and Umberto Nobile’s dramatic trips across the North Pole in airships, the wreck of the airship “Italia” and Mr. Amundsen’s death. Several boats are also displayed, with information about the Varanger fisheries. The Kjeldsen fish processing plant – summer exhibitions: Shop and flat About the plant Birds in Varanger Fishing tackle Cod liver oil factory “Scrapbook” – exhibition The exhibition is housed in the Kjeldsen fish processing plant.
   8. "Vadsøya" nature and cultural parke "http://www.visitnorway.com/fr/Product/?pid=51884" Easily accessible area for walking, with remains of 16th century Russian cemetery, airship mast from the North Pole expeditions of Amundsen and Nobile, World War II memorials and other cultural memorials. Signposts for the different attractions. The island has a rich bird life.

   9. "Ekkerøy"

      nesting cliff and nature reserve "http://www.visitnorway.com/fr/Product/?pid=51913" On route from "Vadsø" to "Vardø", you will pass by the exceptionally beautiful island of Ekkerøy with its well-known bird rock. Visit one of Europe’s largest nesting cliffs with over 50 species and 40,000 nesting kittiwakes. The island of Ekkerøy has Norwegian Lapland’s only nesting cliff with access by road almost all the way. The nesting cliff and nature reserve are only a five-minute walk from the carpark. There is also a marked nature and cultural trail through beautiful countryside with fascinating information boards on the bird life and fauna, local history and cultural memorials. Ekkerøy is a traditional fishing village, 15 km east of Vadsø. It has a museum, café, restaurant, lovely beaches and accommodation.
   10. "Vardø" In Vardø you can visit the world's northernmost fortress, "Vardøhus" festning , and enjoy the fantastic bird life there, before driving along the Arctic shoreline all the way to "Hamningberg". Here you can enjoy the Arctic countryside at its most extreme – jagged cliffs overlooking the mighty Barents Sea. The "south"bound "Hurtigruten" vessel leaves "Vardø" at 17:00 and arrives "Gamvik" Mehamn at 01:00.
   11. "Hamningberg"
   12. <- lõunasse Soome Utsjoki
       "Tana" from Tana to "Lakselv" Distance: 600 kilometres + the journey on Hurtigruten (The Norwegian Coastal Voyage) between "Berlevåg" and "Kjøllefjord". In Tana you can fish big salmon in the Tanaelva River, one of the world’s best rivers for salmon fishing. From there, follow the road Rv 895 to "Polmak". Tana - "Berlevåg" and "Nordkyn" Follow the road Rv 890 from "Tana" to "Berlevåg" and stop at "Kjølnes" Lighthouse. If you would like to try a round trip, we recommend taking Hurtigruten from "Berlevåg" to the charming village of "Kjøllefjord". From "Kjøllefjord" you drive along Rv 888 to "Børselv" via "Hopseidet" and "Bekkarfjord", an area resembling a lunar landscape. Leaving "Børselv" you may wish to take a detour out to "Veidnes", with its shifting scenery and eye-catching white dolomite mountains. The road Rv 98 comes to an end in "Lakselv" and "Porsanger".
   13. "Polmak" Here you can relax in a giant outdoor heated bath tub, and take a closer look at the art of healing.
   14. "Berlevåg" on the road from "Tana" to Berlevåg stop at "Kjølnes" Lighthouse. In Berlevåg you can also visit the local glass studio or the Berlevåg Harbour Museum.
   15. "Gamvik" The harbour in Gamvik is Mehamn. The "south"bound "Hurtigruten" vessel leaves "Vardø" at 1700 and arrives Mehamn at 0100.
   16. "Nordkyn" "http://www.imaginenordkyn.com/deep_sea_rafting_eng.htm" "Kinnarodden" , the northernmost point in Europe at the main land 71, 08`north. This trip starts from "Foldal" wharf in Kjøllefjord, it goes with our Mercedes Gelenderwagen to "Skjøtningberg" . From Skjøtningberg we go with rubber boat to the northernmost point in Europe. We will see great mountains, a lot of sea birds, seals, and old ship wreck & maybe an eagle or two on this trip. We will also go on shore at Kinnarodden & in "Sandfjord" where it is a huge beach. Then we will visit a seagulls bird cliff & see thousand of seagulls. "Sværholdt" , a big bird cliff between us and Northcape, there´s also some remains of a big Artillery Fort that the Germans build during the second world war. Out there its a lot of eagles, sometimes you can have 10 of them over your head at one time... Bestilling / Order: Tlf/sms +47 95 20 87 60 E-post: post@imaginenordkyn.com Turistinfo - Kjøllefjord - Lakselv
   17. "Kjøllefjord" In this charming village you can for example see the incredible "Finnkirka" mountain formation, which is an old sami sacrificial place. It's great to be out there in a fantastic nature, and a bit mystic... After our stop there we go out and have a look at some special locations that i want to show you... This trip takes about 3 hours.
   18. "Veidnes" shifting scenery and eye-catching white dolomite mountains.

   19. "Børselv"

       From "Kjøllefjord" you drive along Rv 888 to Børselv via "Hopseidet" and "Bekkarfjord" , an area resembling a lunar landscape. The area is very exposed to extreme weather conditions and is often closed for traffic during the winter. From there your trip will take you along the "Laksefjord" and across the "Børselvfjellet" mountains. The fishing is ideal at Børselv and the Børselva River is rated as one of the most beautiful rivers in Norway. You will also find one of Europe’s biggest canyons here.
   20. "Silfar" Canyon
   21. "Lakselv" a guided tour of the world’s northernmost wine factory, sampling the goods as you go. Bussi kohti Lakselviä starttasi Rovaniemeltä elokuun 19. päivä 2001. Mieli avoinna ja odotukset korkealla vietimme linja-autossa 8 tuntia ja saavuimme Lakselviin sunnuntai-iltana. Paikka näytti oudon hiljaiselta, ja hetken odoteltuamme kysyimme, olemmehan varmasti linja-autoasemalla, josta meidät oli määrä hakea. Ensimmäisen norjankielisen kommunikointiyrityksen seurauksena lähdimme marssimaan kilometrin päässä sijaitsevalle linja-autoasemalle painavia laukkuja raahaten. Lopulta parin tunnin odottelun ja muutaman puhelun jälkeen selvisi, että meidät oltiin yksinkertaisesti vain unohdettu hakea bussilta, ja lopulta pääsimme majoituspaikkaamme.
   22. "Stabbursnes" Stabbursnes Nature House and Museum is an information center for nature and culture in Finnmark and a National Park Visitor Center for Stabbursdalen National Park. The center offers: Standing exhibit of Finnmark's nature and culture. Film about Stabbursdalen National park and the Lappish seasons Sale of coffee/tea/refreshments Sale of souvenirs, books, postcards and works by local artisans Nature walk and guided thematic trips Conducted tour in the museum (Norwegian, English) must be ordered 2 days in advance OPENING HOURS: June 2nd-13th 11.00 - 18.00 every day June 14th-August 17th 09.00 - 20.00 every day August 18th-31st 11.00 - 18.00 every day September 1st- May 31st Tuesday 12.00 - 15.00 Thursday 12.00 - 15.00 Wednesday 12.00 - 18.00 Otherwise, visits by appointment only. TICKET PRICES: Adults NOK 50,- Children (7-16) NOK 10,- Children < 7 free Students NOK 40,- NATURE TRAIL We offer a nature walk that starts at the parking lot and goes to Stabbursneset. The trail partly follows the Stabbursnes Nature Reservation. It is approximately 2,8 km one way and you retrace your steps when returning. It will take about 45 minutes each way. The path is well marked, and easy to follow. It goes through woods, along the river, and on top of the Stabbursnes plateau were there is a magnificent view of the inner Porsanger Fjord. You may buy a small booklet describing the nature and walk at the Nature House. E-mail: stabburs@online.no Phone: +47 78 46 47 65 Fax: +47 78 46 47 32 Guided THEMATIC excursions in Stabbursdalen National Park AND OTHER AREAS IN PORSANGER. A thematic excursion is a journey in nature in the company of others and a guide who will share her/his feelings for and knowledge and the natural environment. The guide will provide participants an opportunity to view wildlife and vegetation on the reservation and surrounding areas to increase participants' understanding for how humans have used and changed the natural world throughout history. All the excursions take place with the leadership of a local and experienced naturalist from the Stabbursnes Nature House and Museum. Photo: Tove Persen On most of the trips: reservation of the weather conditions, and reservation of available guides If you have other wishes, we will do our best to help you Advanced booking: different respites, see under each trip. Booking to: Tourist information in Lakselv 78 46 07 00 Stabbursnes Naturhus and Museum 78 46 47 65 Numbers of participants: fewer or more participants than required is possible, but then the price well be another than mentioned. Equipment: Walking shoes and walking clothes, rain clothes if necessary.

       1. "Trollholmsund"

          a place with a fascinating history. The trip Starts at "Kolvik" about 15 km from Stabbursnes. From here we walk along a path near the fjord against the trolls. On our way we have an excellent view to the beautiful nature. The white dolomite creates fantastic landscape and a calcareous earth with a rich plant life. Soon we can see the 2000 years old pillars of dolomite. Out there you will be told the ancient Lappish legend about how a group of trolls came here. You will also be told about the geology in the area. The trolls are an impressing view and wonderful subjects for memorable photos. The walk’s length is 2 km. Duration 3-4 hours Available: 24.6. - 15.08. Numbers of of participants: min 5 max 20 Price: 150 NOK pr participant, children 75 NOK Included:guiding Transport not included Starting point: Kolvik Guiding language: Norwegian and English Advanced booking: 2 days
       2. "Lombola" GUIDED WALK TO THE STABBURSDALEN NATIONAL PARK The walk is starts from Stabbursnes Naturhus and Museum. We drive to the parking area at the end of the Lombolavegen, about 8 km. From here we walk along a path to Lombola, an arctic oasis in Stabbursdalen. We continue the walk in the world’s most northernmost pine forest along the Stabburselva river to Rørkulpen, a very nice place for salmonfishing. During the walk you will be told about Stabbursdalen National Park with the world’s northernmost pine forest, the salmon fishing in the river Stabburselva, the nature and the use of the nature. At Rørkulpen we will take a break around an open fire, make coffee and tea as we might se the salmon jumping in the pool. We will follow a slightly different route on the return journey. The walk’s length is 3-4 km. Duration 2-3 hours Available: 24.6. – 15.8. Numbers of participants: min 5, max 15 Price: 185 NOK pr participant, children 75 NOK Included in price: guiding, coffee/tea Tansport not included Starting point: Parking place at Lombolaveien Guiding language: Norwegian and English Advanced booking: 2 days
       3. WALKING TO STABBURSNES NATURE RESERVE WITH A PANORAMIC VIEW OF THE FJORD The trail starts at the Nature House and Visitor Center and follows the natural edge of the Stabbursnes to the its very tip. From here it is a short walk to get a magnificent panoramic view of the "Valdakmyra" , which is a birder’s paradise. The diverse and interactive environments of salt water, fresh water and tidal marsh create rich habitats which abound in plant and animal communities that are ideal for observation and study. There are opportunities to see many species of water and shorebirds, rich vegetation, reindeer and seals. The trail follows the boundary line of the wildlife sanctuary and provides continual views of the river, the fjord and parts of the nature reservation. Our naturalist will share information about the landscape, the sanctuary and the cultural history as well as provide an introduction to the unique animal and plant life of the areas. The hike is about 5,5 km. Duration 2 hours. Available: June 24.06. – 15.08. Numbers of participants: min 5, max 15 Price: 150 NOK pr participant, children 75 NOK Included in price: guiding Starting point: Stabbursnes Naturhus Guiding language: Norwegian and English Advanced booking: 2 days
       4. "Valdak" BIRDING TOUR TO THE STABBURSNES NATURE RESERVATION AND THE INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED VALDAK MARSHES The hike starts at E6 by Stabbursnesmoen, 1 km south of the Visitor Centre, and follows a trail to a bird-watching hut with a magnificent view of the Stabbursnes Sanctuary and the well-known Valdak Marshes. This is one of Scandinavia’s most important wetlands for birds and a great spot to look for migrating shorebirds and waterfowl, as well as other seasonal birds. Join our naturalist on these fun outdoor walks for beginning and intermediate birders. We provide telescope, binoculars and identification guides. We also take the time to prepare coffee/tea at the fire pit. The walk is about 1 km. Duration 2 hours Available: 10.5 – 10.6 Numbers of participants: min 5, max 15 Price: 150 NOK pr participant, children 75 NOK Included in price: guiding, coffee/tea Starting point: Stabbursnes, about 1 km from Stabbursnes Naturhus Guiding language: Norwegian and English Advanced booking: 2 days
       5. "Roddines" WALK IN RODDIENS NATURE RESERVE We meet at the parking site at Roddines, were the nature trail starts. Everybpdy have to get here by themselves. From the parking site we walk the geological nature trail, 2,5 km. The nature trail is situated inside Roddines nature reserve. The area is protected because of the great old shorelines. The ares has a lot og interesting geological phenomenoms. During the trip you will be told about the geology in the area. When we are reaching the sea it is time too enjoy our food, coffee/tea and the great wiew to Reinøya island and the Porsanger fjord. The walk is about 2,5 km. Duration about 2 hours. Available: June 24.06. – 15.08. Numbers of participants: min 5, max 15 Price: 150 NOK pr participant, children 75 NOK Included in price: guiding and coffe/tea Starting point: Roddines Guiding language: Norwegian Advanced booking: 2 days
       6. "Rørkulpen" MUSHROOM WALK The trip starts at the parking site at the "Lombolaveien" . Here we learn about the different groups of mushrooms, before the participants themselves are going to gather mushrooms. Down by the river at Rørkulpen all the mushrooms well be controlled. The walk is 2-3 km. Duration 3 hours. Availiable: 10.8. - 15.9 Numbers of participants: min 5 max 15 Price: 150 NOK pr participant, if you want service, 250 NOK Included in price: guiding and control of mushrooms Starting point: The parking site at Lombolaveien Guiding language: Norwegian Advanced booking: 3 days
       7. WILDFLOWER WALK These fleeting beauties should be in the process of putting on a real show and we know just where to find them. Many of these plants and flowers have been used for food, medicine, and dyes throughout the ages. Bring your camera and field guide if you have one. The length of the trip is about 3-6 km. Duration approximately 2 hours. Available dates: 1.7. – 20.8. Numbers of participants: min 5, max 15 Price:150 NOK pr participant, children 75 NOK Included in price: guiding Starting point: Stabbursnes Naturhus Guiding language: Norwegian Advanced booking: 3 days
       8. Stabbursnes Naturhus og Museum can offer guiding in our exciting exhibition about nature and culture in Finnmark. In the guiding we will emphasize the culture of the “sea sami” population. After the guiding we are going outside to our traditional turf hut. In the hut, with birch rice and reindeer skin to sit on and the coffee kettle over the fire we promise an exiting experience in evocative surroundings. Coffee made over the pit fire and a taste of traditional Sámi food …. A taste of arctic ! Available: all year Numbers of participants: min 5, max 20 Price: after agreement, about 150 NOK Included in price: entrance to the exhibition, coffee and tastes Duration: 2 hours Advanced booking: 2 days
       9. COFFEE BREAK IN A SAMI TENT Stabbursnes Naturhus og Museum can offer coffee made over a fire and fresh waffles served in nice tempers in our turf hut. With birch rice and reindeer skin to sit on and the coffee kettle over the fire we can promise you a quite different coffee break . . . Available: all year Numbers of participants: min 5, max 20 Price: 100 NOK pr participant, children 50 NOK Included in price: entrance exhibition, coffee/tea, waffels Advanced booking: 1 day
       10. "SÁMI" EXPERIENCE Stabbursnes Naturhus og Museum offer entrance in our exhibition and traditional Sámi food served in a turf hut. You will be served a traditional Sámi meal and coffee. With birch rice and reindeer skin to sit on and the coffee kettle over the fire we can promise you a quite another experience than a usual meal. Available dates: all year Numbers of participants: min 5, max 20 Price: 250 NOK pr participant Included in price: entrance in exhibition, dinner and coffee Not Included, something to drink to the meal Advanced booking: 4 days
   23. "Stabbursdalen" "http://www.kajaaninyliopistokeskus.oulu.fi/kampuslehti/joulu2001/1201.html" National Park - home to the world's northernmost pine forest. Finnmarksvidda is one of Norway’s largest mountain plateaus and the home of the Sami people. Tallest mountains Lakselvissä meidät otettiin hyvin vastaan. Saimme tutustua Finnmarkin kauniiseen ja maagiseen luontoon (menomatkat kestävät tuplasti niin kauan kuin paluumatkat, ja mennessä havaitut talot ja järvet voivat mystisesti kadota). Lainasimme polkupyörät kahdelta opettajalta ja pääsimme näin tutustumaan laajemmin nähtävyyksiin ja ympäristöön. 150 pyöräilykilometriä antoi unohtumattomia elämyksiä muun muassa Stabbursdalenin luonnonpuistosta, "Trollholmsund"in peikoista. Hovikuskimme Almar vei meidät myös Hammerfestiin ja Borselviin. Näimme monia maailman pohjoisimpia asioita, kuten maailman pohjoisimman kaupungin, maailman pohjoisimman mäntymetsän sekä toisenkin maailman pohjoisimman mäntymetsän. Koimme myös luonnon vaarallisen puolen – koulun retkipäivä päättyi ikävästi, kun kaksi oppilasta upposi merenrannan mutaan vyötäröään myöten. Pojat saatiin pelastettua kolmen aikuisen voimin. Kokemuksesta oppii! Norja on kallis maa, mutta omin eväin (Maxi-makasiinista kannetut purkkiruuat, hapankorput ja keksit) pärjää mainiosti. Kieliongelmia ei tarvitse pelätä, riittää, kun hallitsee elekielen ja pari yksinkertaista fraasia (Va sa du? Kan du säga det en gång till!) Suosittelemme Norjan harjoittelua kaikille! "Čohkarášša" - 1,139 metres above sea level "Bieggevatgaissa" - 1,117 metres above sea level "Čaravarre" - 887 metres above sea level Covering a vast area from "Alta", "Kautokeino", "Karasjok" and parts of "Porsanger", Finnmarksvidda offers challenges for those who seek the great outdoors. This is a great place for hiking in the summer and autumn, and for cross-country skiing, snowmobile safaris and dog sledging in the winter. Every winter Finnmarksvidda is the arena of the world’s northernmost sled dog race – Finnmarksløpet. Enjoy the magical midnight sun during the summer months. During the autumn and winter when the sky is clear, you can experience the unforgettable sight of the northern lights. There are two national parks in the area of Finnmarksvidda: "Øvre Anarj"ohka National Park - the remote and untouched southeast part of the plateau "Stabbur"sdalen National Park - the northernmost pine forest in the world. Most popular hiking and cross-country skiing trails The trip from "Alta" (Stilla) to "Karasjok", and the trip from Áissároaivi to "Stabbursnes" through "Stabbur"sdalen National Park. Another popular trip is the trip between Gargia Fjellstue and Suolovuopmi. Flora and fauna The plateau is luxuriant with flowers and plants. The plateau includes extensive birch woods, bogs and glacially formed lakes. Finnmarksvidda is the home of bred reindeer. Elk, wolverines, mountain fox, hare, lynx and a small population of bears are also present. Most lakes and rivers hold trout. Grouse, golden eagle and gerfalcon are the most special of all the birds that live here. Accommodation The State has built mountain lodges along the old traffic routes which are either staffed, have permanent residents or are unstaffed. They were originally meant to be used by migratory Sami and public servants on official business, but are now mostly used by the local population or visiting hikers and skiers. Some of the mountain lodges have been taken over by private individuals. The cabins are equipped with table linen, kitchen utensils and bedding. The standard is relatively simple. The tenant farmers are not obliged to serve food, but many of them do offer meals or sell canned goods, margarine, milk and bread. Meals should be ordered in advance. You can also stay in town/village centres, Stay for example at the "Alta" Igloo Hotel in the wintertime or at "Karasjok" youth hostel. For a unique opportunity to get to know the Sami way of life, you can join a Sami family out on the plateau and help herd reindeer. You stay in a Sami lavvu, a traditional tepee, and get to see how Scandinavia´s aborigines live and work. No prizes for guessing what is on the menu. Camping Many hikers on the Finnmark plateau take tents to fully experience the wilderness. If you plan to sleep in a tent (or caravan/mobile home) you may do so anywhere, except in cultivated fields and lay-bys. You can stay for as long as you wish, as long as your tent, caravan or mobile home is no closer than 150 metres to the nearest house or cabin. Maps Detailed maps of the area can be bought at the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT), local bookshops or the local tourist information offices. Getting to Finnmarksvidda Whether travelling by air, car or bus, or perhaps a combination of all three, it is relatively easy to get to Finnmarksvidda. Those with a real spirit of adventure and time to spare can drive north from Oslo on E 6, the main north-south road in Norway. It runs from the southern tip of Sweden and through almost all of Norway right up to Finnmark. But do check for weather conditions before setting out as during the winter months some sections of the road can be closed. The distance between Oslo and "Alta" is 1,910 kilometres. From Oslo it is only a two-hour flight to "Alta". Both SAS and Norwegian fly here. Alternatively you can fly to "Lakselv" with SAS. Or you you can take "Hurtigruten" (the Norwegian Coastal Express) from Bergen to "Kirkenes", visiting ports and harbours on the way. From "Kirkenes" you can drive or catch a bus to various starting points of Finnmarksvidda. Getting around Once at Finnmarksvidda, the best way of getting around is walking, skiing, cycling and riding. You can of course drive your car on certain of the plateau’s roads, use a snowmobile in certain areas or catch the local buses.
   24. "Porsanger" is an eldorado for anyone fond of fishing and the outdoor life. Lakslevist läbi, mööda Porsangeri fjordi rannikut põhja poole jõuab u. 30 kilomeetri pärast ühe suurepärase kanjonini. Kahjuks nime ei mäleta kuid kaartidel on ta märgitud. Targad raamatud teavad rääkida, et tegu on Skandinaavia dramaatiliseima kanjoniga. Soovi korral saab mööda rajakest ka alla minna aga see on päris kõva ettevõtmine. Dverggåsa er en truet art som er spesiell for Porsanger. Furutreet er en påminnelse om verdens nordligste forekomster av bartrær og et viktig element for bosetning i Porsanger. "Silfar" Canyon er en naturattraksjon og et symbol på hvor vilt og vakkert det er i Porsanger, samt hva elvene med laks og matauke har betydd for Porsanger Fiskehjellen kan være et symbol på vår kyst- og kulturtradisjon. Dette har både et samisk og kvensk tilknytting Trollene i Tollholmsund er et kjent landemerke og en severdighet for alle som besøker Porsanger. I tillegg har man et sagn knyttet til dette stedet. Helikopteret kjennetegnes Forsvaret og det moderne samfunnet. Bølgelandskapet eller strandavsetningene fra tusenvis av år siden er spesielt for kommunen. Fiskebåten minner oss på at fjorden og tilhørende liv er viktig. Uten fisket og det rike livet i fjorden hadde ikke bosetning lyktes. Solhjulet i kjedet har forbindelse til alle kulturene og er et symbol på alt liv
   25. "Nordkapp" "http://www.nordkapp.no/" At 71 degrees north, this is the northernmost point on mainland Europe. Amongst other things, you can take part in a fantastic bird watching safari here, or visit the North Cape Hall on the top of the North Cape cliff, 307 metres above sea level, has long been a popular and important navigation mark for shipping traffic in the north. In 1553, an English expedition set sail under the command of commander Richard Chancellor to find the northeastern passage to China. They did not succeed but the old sea charts after this expedition are the first to mention the name, the North Cape. The sea cliff dates back 500-600 million years and consists of schist, sandstone, quartzite and mica schist.
   26. "Hammerfest" Norway's northernmost town. Here you can pay a visit to, and become a member of, The Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society.
   27. "Hasvik" "Deep-sea Fishing Festival in Hasvik"
   28. "Skaidi"
   29. "Seiland" National Park - two of the northernmost glaciers in Scandinavia.
   30. <- lõunasse Soome Inari
       

       "Karasjok"

       "http://www.karasjokinfo.no/indexN.html" "http://www.rdm.no/" Sami administrative capital. Experience the culture and history of the Sami people at Sapmí Culture Park and at the Sami Collections. The latter museum boasts having the biggest collection of Sami items in Norway. Karasjok is located in the heart of Norwegian Lapland, 18 kilometres from the Finnish border, and is a natural and important stopping place on the way to "Nordkapp". The nearest airport, "Nordkapp" Airport, is in "Lakselv" - 74 kilometres from Karasjok, or about a one-hour drive. Reindeer herding As a continuation of the ancient hunting and fishing societies reindeer herding still has a central role in Sami areas. In Karasjok today, around 18 per cent of the population is involved in reindeer herding. The others are involved in agriculture, the tourist industry, other service industries, state and municipal business, Sami institutions, Sami handicrafts - duodji and some industry. Sami institutuions Many of the most important Sami institutions such as Sametinget (Sami Parliament), De Samiske Samlinger (The Sami Collections) and Sami Kunstnersenter (Sami Artists’ Centre) are located here. Experience the culture and history of the Sami people at Sápmi Culture Park. Karasjok has many exciting adventures and activities in breathtaking scenery. Seasons In the summer you meet lush/fertile fields in the valleys, and can move through tightly packed pine and birch woods until you get to the open and free mountain tundra. In the autumn the landscape is remarkable with a spectacular spectrum of colours not found elsewhere. In many lakes and rivers you find various species of fish - from salmon, trout and char to whitefish, grayling and pike. Vårt turistkontor kan være behjelpelig å gjøre ditt opphold i Karasjok så optimalt som mulig. Vi hjelper deg med nødvendig informasjon i forkant av ditt besøk. Ordinære åpningstider: I perioden 5. juni - 13. august: kl. 09:00 - 19:00 alle dager. Resten av året kl 09:00 - 16:00 hverdager. Lørdag og søndag stengt. Åpningstider i påsken: Dette gjelder Turistinformasjonen, Den Samiske Kulturparken - Sápmi og Sápmi Kafé. Tirs og ons kl. 10:00 - 16:00 Skjærtorsdag kl. 10:00 - 16:00 Langfredag Stengt Påskeaften kl. 10:00 - 16:00 1. Påskedag Stengt 2. Påskedag Stengt Kontakt oss for nærmere informasjon: Turistinformasjonen, Postboks 243, 9735 Karasjok Telefon: 78 46 88 02, Telefaks: 78 46 88 01 E-post: post@karasjokinfo.no
   31. "Øvre Anarjóhka" "http://www.dirnat.no/anarjakka" a remote and untouched part of the Finnmarksvidda mountain plateau. Et hav av vidde Øvre Anarjóhka nasjonalpark og den tilgrensende finske nasjonalparken Lemmenjoki utgjør et stort, urørt naturområde i nord. Nasjonalparken er en avsides og urørt del av Finnmarksvidda. Området preges av et bølgende viddelandskap med bjørkeskog, furumoer, store myrer og mange vann. Øvre Anarjóhka er artsrik, med mange østlige innslag av planter og dyr. På de endeløse myrene i Øvre Anarjóhka får sangsvane og vadefugler være i fred for mennesker, om enn ikke for myggen. Naturopplevelse: Fjellvandring, jakt og fiske Øvre Anarjóhka nasjonalpark er lite tilrettelagt for friluftsliv, men det finnes likevel turmuligheter. I tillegg kan du fiske. Personer bosatt utenfor Finnmark må ha fiskekort. Elva Anarjóhka er lakseførende og krever eget fiskekort for "Tana"vassdraget. Jakt og fangst på rype, hare, rødrev og mink er kun tillatt i f.m. lovlig reindrift. Landskap: Myr, vann og skogløs vidde Ulvefossen. - Copyright: Oddleif Nordsletta Ulvefossen. Foto: Oddleif Nordsletta Øvre Anarjóhka nasjonal-park er et flatt platå - men med en rekke avrundede, duvende høgdedrag. Myr, vann og skogløs vidde utgjør halvparten av nasjonal-parken, men det er også store arealer av skog og trær. Fra bredden av Anarjóhka stiger landet langsomt mot et høgdedrag med treløs vidde fra Spierkojeaggi i nord til Riehttecearru i sørvest. Den vestlige delen av nasjonalparken ligger høgere enn den østlige og derfor er landskapet her mer preget av høgfjell med stein, lyng og myr. Bare rundt bekker og vann vokser en lav bjørkeskog. I Øvre Anarjóhka er det myrområder som ofte kan være flere kilometer lange, og vanskelige for folk å krysse. Nasjonalparken har over 700 store og små vann, og mange store elver starter sitt løp her inne på vidda. Det største vannet er Gavdnjajávri ved Anarjóhkas øvre kilder. Øvre Anarjóhka har et typisk kontinentalt klima med tørre somrer og svært kalde vintrer. Geologisk preges nasjonalparken av to ulike formasjoner. I vest finnes et surt og næringsfattig felt som gir dårlig jordsmonn for planter. Lengre øst dominerer den såkalte "Karasjok"-formasjonen med basiske bergarter som danner grunnlag for en mer artsrik vegetasjon. Planteliv: Mange østlige planter I Øvre Anarjóhka er det over 100 kvadratkilometer furuskog som for det meste er ren urskog. På grunn av det kalde klimaet her oppe er furuas vekst svært langsom og trærne blir derfor småvokste og kvistrike. Grana finnes to steder i nasjonalparken i små mengder, og er derfor sjelden og sårbar. Bjørka i Øvre Anarjóhka er småvokst, krokete og vokser spredt over et stort område. Bunnsjiktet i bjørkeskogen består av mye lav, og disse områdene er derfor svært viktige for reinen om vinteren. Ballblom - Copyright: Kristin S. Karlsen Ballblom. Foto: Kristin S. Karlsen Også myr utgjør en betydelig del av nasjonalparkens arealer. Stort sett dreier det seg om næringsfattig myr og vegetasjonen domineres derfor av starr og myrull. Langs kanten av myrene er det ofte kratt av finnmarkspors og ulike vierarter samt litt fjellbjørk. Langs elver og bekkefar vokser det gjerne arter som krever mer næring så som sølvvier, lappvier og ofte også ballblom, kongsspir og skogstorkenebb. Øvre Anarjóhka har sterke innslag av såkalte Sibir-arter. Ofte dreier dette seg om storvokste urter som storveronika, sibirturt, finnmarksfrøstjerne, russefrøstjerne og lappflokk. Langs kilder og andre fuktige lokaliteter kan man finne lappsoleie og dvergmaigull, og på grasmyrene den rustrøde brannmyrullen. Fugleliv: Sjeldne østlige arter Fuglelivet i Øvre Anarjóhka er rikt og med innslag av sjeldne østlige arter. I furuskogene finner man gjerne rødstjert, granmeis og lappmeis. Tretåspett og lavskrike samt fjellvåk, kongeørn og jaktfalk er det også mulig å treffe på i nasjonalparken. Dvergfalk kan også forekomme. Myrene byr på gode habitater for vadere. Grønnstil, rødstilk, småspove, lappspove og kvartbekkasin er alminnelige, og sotsnipa, som bare finnes i Finnmark, forekommer også. Langs elvebreddene er det normalt å finne fossekall, linerle, temincksnipe og sandlo, mens man i vannene kan se storlom, krikkand, kvinand, havelle, svartand sjøorre og sangsvane. Øvre Anarjóhka har flere mindre spurvefugler som er sjeldne i Norge for øvrig. Gulerle, lappspurv, lappsanger og sivsanger er eksempler på slike. Hønsefugler som fjellrype og lirype finnes også i nasjonalparken, mens storfugl er mer sjelden. Dyreliv: En rik og mangfoldig fauna Øvre Anarjóhka nasjonalpark har stor variasjon i landskapstyper og dyrelivet er derfor forholdsvis rikt. Det største pattedyret er elgen, men denne trekker stort sett til mer skogrike trakter utenfor parken om vinteren. I verneområdet er det 12 vinterbeiter av stor betydning for reindrifta, og fra november til og med april er det derfor reinen som dominerer suverent. Bjørnen har hi innen nasjonalparkens grenser, mens jerven bare er streifdyr. Av mindre rovdyr er rødrev og røyskatt mest vanlig. Det finnes en rekke smågnagere i Øvre Anarjóhka. Lemen, markmus, fjellrotte og vånd er mest utbredt, men bestands-størrelsene varierer mye fra år til år. En karakterart for nasjonalparken er den typiske sibirarten rødmus. Området har forøvrig en stabil bestand av hare, og det finnes også et par spissmusarter. Øvre Anarjóhka nasjonalpark har mange fiskeslag. Laks, ørret, røye, trepigget stingsild, harr, sik, gjedde, abbor, lake og ørekyt er vanlige. Den mest sjeldne arten er trolig røya som bare finnes i ett vann.
   32. <- lõunasse Soome Enontekiö
       "Kautokeino" "http://www.kautokeino.nu/" the Sami centre of education. There are 3,000 people and 100,000 reindeer in Kautokeino. The Sami culture is vivid and authentic. 85 per cent of the population in Kautokeino, which lies in the vast county of Finnmark, have Sami as their first language, and one third of the people work with reindeer, which is also the main industry. Experience a different and exotic culture of the Sami people. The Sami culture is vivid and authentic even in the modern society of to day. The famous Easter festival in Kautokeino is a yearly event with historical traditions. Easter was traditionally the time of year when the Sami, from all over the Sapmi region, congregated in the reindeer capital Kautokeino. The end of a long, cold and dark winter was celebrated and one took part in the religious feasts and the high season of weddings. Seasons In winter time and the arctic night with northern lights and summer with constantly daylight and midnight sun, you can experience the nature at its most extreme; a winter's night spent in a lavvu (a Sami tent), a summer's evening at one of the numerous lakes fishing or watching reindeer race at Easter. Research and education Kautokeino is a centre for research and education with establishments such as the Sami College, the Nordic Sami Institute, the Food Control Authority and the centre for indigenous populations. The borough is bi-lingual and both Sami and Norwegian are used on all official documents and in all meetings. Easter festival in Kautokeino is a yearly event with historical traditions. Easter was traditionally the time of year when Samis from all over Sapmi region congregate in the reindeer capital of Kautokeino. The end of a long, cold and dark winter was celebrated and one took part in the religious feasts and the high season of weddings. See "http://www.saami-easterfestival.org" for program. The film festival is a part of the Easter festival and it offers films with special focus on indigenous peoples of the Arctic area. The autumn festival in August is celebrating the end of a short and hectic summer with concerts and feasts. At last but not at least you must visit the famous "Juhls" Silver Gallery, known for its architecture and beautiful silver jewellery.
   33. "Suohpatjavri" "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Product/?pid=51961" Nature and Culture trail is located 10 km south of the village of "Kautokeino". Itis 4.5-km long marked trail with information signs and a picnic area with an earth and turf hut (“jordgamme”), and a probable sacrificial stone, “sieidi”, which is a protected cultural monument. This trail was selected as the Outdoor Area of the Year in Norwegian Lapland in 1997.
   34. "Pikefossen" falls is the only waterfall (8 metres) on the Kautokeino/Alta River. The name is derived from a Sami legend of a girl herding reindeer while her master was travelling. The whole herd of reindeer drowned. When her master returned and saw what had happened, he threw the servant girl into the waterfall, hence the name. Picnic area with toilets.
   35. Myrområde ved "Goahteluoppal" "http://www.fylkesmannen.no/fagom.aspx?m=1887&amid=2398519" Utredning av ny nasjonalpark i Goahteluoppal, "Kautokeino" Fylkesmannen har i 2008 satt i gang arbeidet med å utrede verneverdier og andre interesser i Goahteluoppal, med tanke på å foreslå en ny nasjonalpark i området. I denne artikkelen ligger en oversikt over arbeidet og link til ferdige utredninger. Utredningsområdet for en eventuell ny Goahteluoppal nasjonalpark ligger i sin helhet i "Kautokeino" kommune. Området grenser mot Troms fylke med "Reisa" nasjonalpark i nord, og til riksgrensa mot Finland i vest. Se oversiktskart. Zoologiske og botaniske undersøkelser I sommer ble det gjort botaniske og zoologiske undersøkelser i området. Resultatene er nå klare, og foreligger i to ferske rapporter. Undersøkelsene av zoologi ble utført av NINA, "Tromsø". Det konkluderes med at området har verdier på regionalt til nasjonalt nivå med hensyn på vilt. Området har en rik og variert fuglefauna, med mange rødlistede arter. Rapporten fra viltundersøkelsene kan leses her. Utredningsområdet består av en mosaikk av ulike myrtyper, som er en viktig forutsetning for den rike fuglefaunaen. Her finnes også velutviklede palsmyrer, som kun har sin hovedutbredelse i Indre Troms og indre deler av Finnmark. Palsmyr er en spesiell myrtype. Det er en blandingsmyr med torvhauger som har en iskjerne som ikke smelter i løpet av sommeren. De botaniske undersøkelsene ble foretatt av Sweco. Myrområdene ble undersøkt med tanke på å identifisere og verdisette prioriterte naturtyper og truede vegetasjonstyper. Av seks delområder som ble undersøkt ble to områder karakterisert som en ”svært viktig” naturtype. To områder ble gitt verdien ”viktig”. Hele rapporten kan leses her. Andre utredninger Fylkesmannen har også satt i gang utredninger av lokalbefolkningens bruk av det foreslåtte området. Det er Samisk høgskole som ble tildelt dette oppdraget. Et omfattende arbeid blir her gjort, med bl.a. spørreundersøkelse og intervjuer av flere hundre personer. De endelige resultatene fra disse undersøkelsene er klare i løpet av januar 2009. Bioforsk Nord, Tjøtta, leverte det beste tilbudet på oppdrag med å utrede konsekvenser for reindrift. Denne utredningen blir ferdig i februar 2009. Arbeidsutvalg er opprettet Det er opprettet et arbeidsutvalg som skal bistå Fylkesmannen i arbeidet med et verneforslag for ny nasjonalpark. Dette består av representanter fra reindriftsnæringen, Sámi bivdo- ja mahcástansearvi, Badjineanu gilisearvi /Økseidet bygdelag og "Kautokeino" kommune. Navnet på medlemmene i gruppa kan leses her Fylkesmannen og Sametinget har gjennom konsultasjoner blitt enige om denne sammensetningen av arbeidsutvalget.

   36. "Alta"

       is the largest town in Finnmark and offers northern lights, midnight sun, mountains, Sami culture, reindeer and UNESCO-protected rock carvings , a walk to the Alta Canyon or a riverboat safari on the "Altaelva" river. . Try for example dog sledging or go on a snow mobile safari. The world's first Northern Light observatory was built here at the end of the nineteenth century and has earned Alta the name The Town of the Northern Lights. See the UNESCO-protected rock carvings at Hjemmeluft in Alta. Alta Museum is situated by the rock carvings, which date 2,000 to 6,200 years back. Alta has good climatic conditions, with little precipitation, pleasant winters and warm summers. During the winter nights here, you can often see the northern lights dancing across the skies. The blue season in Alta lasts from November to January, after which the days get gradually longer. May to August have midnight sun and 24 hours of daylight. Alta has three centres: "Bossekop" , with old trading and market traditions, "Elvebakken" in the east, with airport and harbour, and the town of Alta itself, as the newest of the three, with pedestrian shopping precincts and shopping centres. The town is one of Northern Norway’s largest educational and research centres and is home to Finnmark Municipal University, with approximately 2,000 students. Local commerce and industry also include slate works and mining, agriculture, aquaculture and fishing.
       
       Round trip in Western Finnmark Distance: 880 kilometres. This trip can start anywhere, but we will begin in "Alta", where you enter Finnmark on the E 6 or by way of a direct flight from Oslo. As far as the latter is concerned, hiring a car in "Alta" is recommended. Drive along the E 6 and Rv 94 to "Hammerfest". Follow the roads E 6 and E 69 to "Nordkapp". On the way to "Lakselv", you can stop in "Trollholmsund". Proceeding on the E 6, you will arrive at "Stabbursnes" Nature Centre and Museum. "Lakselv" - "Karasjok"- "Kautokeino" - Alta Continue along the E 6 until you reach the Sami administrative capital of "Karasjok". Turn off onto Rv 93 to "Kautokeino", the Sami centre of education. From "Kautokeino", you can either drive back to Alta again, or continue along the road Rv 93 to Finland. "Alta" Igloo Hotel "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Theme/Where-to-stay/The-Alta-igloo-hotel/" Alta’s highpoint is Komsa Mountain 203 metres above sea level - even though you can climb it in ten minutes (30mins with knee deep snow). "http://mylittlenorway.com/" In 1925, geologist and archaeologist Anders Nummedal discovered remnants of Stone Age settlements on the mountain. The findings became known as “Komsa culture”. In 2000, a field of rock paintings were uncovered 36-38 feet above sea level and consists of 7 figures. The colouring is faint and it is said to be difficult to see what the paintings represent (- especially in two feet of snow). In good weather, the view is spectacular of Alta Fjord and the city. The sunsets are wonderful to watch - you really feel on top of the world.
2. lõunasse >

   "Troms"

   "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Norway/North/Troms/Key-facts-about-Troms/" "http://visittroms.no/index.php?lang=en" Nature Troms has a varied coastline. Norway's two largest islands are located here, while the fjords virtually cut into the landscape. Mountains rise wildly and inaccessibly directly from the sea into the sky and are alluring for keen mountain hikers. Rivers and streams flow down the mountain sides and continue through expansive agricultural areas. Troms' many watercourses are ideal for exciting fishing and paddling experiences. History The eldest traces of human settlement in Troms are more than 10,000 years old and originate from a nomadic culture. Troms is also home to the world's northernmost traces from the Viking era. The rich maritime resources combined with agriculture, created the basis for the first permanent settlement in Troms. In Troms you get the added bonus of an art-rich indigenous culture to discover (the indigenous Saami population has always utilised the coast as summer grazing areas for their reindeer herds and the border areas with Sweden and Finland as winter grazing areas) and the culture of the Kvæn (Finnish people that settled here along the fjords before 1945 and their building style and culture is visible in several places) and the Døl (arriving from certain valleys such as the Gudbrandsdalen in southern Norway in the nineteenth century and settled in the valleys inland). Not least the everyday culture of fishing, farming, hunting and living up in the subarctic areas. The City of "Tromsø" has always been a starting point for polar expeditions and the world's northernmost university gives it an even more international flavour. Facts The county of Troms has a population of 154,642 and includes three cities/towns. The largest city is "Tromsø" with a population of 65,286, followed by "Harstad" with 23,105 inhabitants and "Finnsnes" with 11,160 inhabitants. The county's 22 municipalities contain many villages and smaller settlements. Midnight sun Experience the magical midnight sun in for example "Tromsø" where it is visible from 20 May to 22 July. Polar nights In "Tromsø" the polar nights are between 20 November and 21 January. Northern lights The flickering majestic lights of the northern lights can usually be seen in Troms from September until the beginning of April. Climate The weather in Troms is influenced by the Gulf stream creating mild, snowy winters along the coastline, with temperatures hovering around -3 to -6 degrees Celsius. In the inland areas temperatures occasionally drop below -30 degrees Celsius, although the dry air makes it less no colder than - 5 degrees Celsius whilst inland areas can get up to minus 30 degrees Celsius but dry. Summer temperatures vary from 10 degrees Celsius to well over 20 degrees Celsius and make the area very fruitful. Average temperatures in degrees Celsius "Harstad" "Bardufoss" "Tromsø" "Nordreisa" January -2,8 -10,4 -3,8 -8,0 February -2,6 -8,9 -0,9 -7,4 March -1,2 -5,4 1,0 -4,6 April 1,8 -0,2 3,8 -0,1 May 6,2 5,6 8,5 5,1 June 9,9 10,5 11,8 9,7 July 12,3 13,0 14,1 12,6 August 11,9 11,5 13,8 11,3 September 8,1 6,3 10,7 6,8 October 4,3 0,9 6,0 1,8 November 0,5 -5,5 1,7 -3,5 December -1,9 -8,9 -0,5 -6,6 Recommended clothing Summer: We recommend a mix of warm and light clothing. Wind and water-proof clothing is necessary. Good trainers/hiking boots provide the possibility to explore the countryside. Winter: Woollen underwear or similar, fleece or wool clothing and a wind and water-proof outer layer. Do not forget gloves or mittens, a woollen hat and scarf. Winter shoes or boots, preferably lined with thin woollen socks (two pairs if there is space). The county of Troms is placed between 68 to 71 degrees northern latitude, giving home to the never ending summer days where the sun stays up for more than two months. You can see the midnight sun in Troms between 20 May to 22 July. At the other end you have the polar nights where the sun does not rise for two months (from 20 November to 21 January). The flickering majestic lights of the northern lights can usually be seen in Troms from September until the beginning of April. Famous places for hiking are the national parks ("Dividal"en, "Reisa"dalen and "Ånderdalen"), but also the "Kåfjord" Valley and mountains, "Tromsø", the "Lyngen" Alps, "Harstad" and the area in southern Troms. Water activities Deep-sea fishing options are available along the coastline. In most cases, accommodation providers also have boats available. They have also got fishing tackle for hire. Freshwater fishing includes fishing for salmon, arctic char, sea trout and other freshwater fish species. For more information, please contact the following companies: "Senja" Camping Rundhaug Gjestegård Elvelund Camping Tørfoss Fishing Camp Nedre Målselvfossen Holiday Park Sea kayaking trips provide a different view of the Northern Norwegian coastal landscape. The following companies can offer sea kayaking: "Tromsø" vilmarkssenter Arctic Adventure Tours River boat trips with the company Elvebåtsenteret. Elvebåtsenteret offers trips in traditional river boats on the "Reisa" River to Mollisfossen, a 269 metre-high waterfall in the "Reisa" National Park. Longer trips are available by advanced booking. Whale safari from "Tromsø" with Arctic Sea Cruises. Join in for a fantastic marine experience - with arctic marine biologists you will look at and learn about the fascinating whales in their natural habitat. Sailing in the arctic is a unique and special adventure. Why not hire the oldest scooner in Northern Europe, Anna Rogde, with base in "Harstad" through the company Norway Fjord Cruise? Or just hire some smaller sailing boats from Boreal Yachting to enjoy the mountainous archipelago of Troms. Diving and sea rafting; guided tours both on and under the water are offered from "Harstad" and "Tromsø". Landbased activities Glacier walks and guided hikes in the midnight sun during summer are memorable experiences. You can also try climbing on the blue ice. The following companies can offer more information: Bre og Vandring "Tromsø" vilmarkssenter Undervegs Hunting and fishing tours in Troms are wilderness experiences with their own unique charm. Contact Villmarkstur for more information. Walking; Furkund offers sensuous walking experiences for groups. You can see the giant kettles and taste nature’s delights in pleasant company. River paddling is offered by several operators: Undervegs Elvebåtsenteret Norquest Sappen leirskole Troms has gentle rivers and other stretches that are more demanding. Riding in the arctic nature. There are several operators to choose between: Lyngshestlandet Målselv Turhestsenter Lapphaugen Turiststasjon You may participate in short tours or week-long excursions. Golf is available from June until mid-October. Two courses are of special interest; the one in Breivikeidet outside "Tromsø" and the other in "Røkenes" outside "Harstad". Cave wandering; guided cave wandering excursions are offered for groups of four or more people south of "Harstad" and in Salangen. Family activities The Polarbadet Indoor Water Park offers activities for the whole family: Solarium, sauna, steam bath, water slides, swimming pools, jacuzzi, mini golf, hot tub and massage. "Senja" Family Park shows how the cultural landscape should be and has family activities focusing on children and animals. Bluenisseland opens 15 November 15, 2008 and will offer exciting adventures such as Mamsen and Lillegutt's Amusement Park and Café. Polaria in "Tromsø" has an arctic aquarium, interesting knowledge-based exhibits and a panoramic cinema showing films from arctic wilderness. Grottebadet in "Harstad" is an indoor (in the mountain) swimming pool and water park. Air activites Helicopter sightseeing is available in "Harstad" through the company Heli-Team AS. Aeroplane sightseeing in "Tromsø", explore the city from smaller aeroplanes with Fly Taxi Nord. Hotels Hotels in Troms come in all shapes, sizes and personalities. You can expect to find top international hotels, such as Radisson SAS, Choice, Scandic, Thon and Rica Hotels in the larger cities of "Tromsø" and "Harstad". But you will also discover smaller hotels which are memorable for their individuality and convenient locations along the main travelling routes. Backpackers' lodges and youth hostels Backpackers' lodges and youth hostels add character and flavour to your Troms travel experience. A comfortable bed is just the beginning. Youth hostels can be found in the cities and towns of "Tromsø", "Harstad", Finnsnes ("Senja") and in the valley of "Skibotn". Bed and breakfast Bed and breakfast is a wonderfully eclectic mix of all types of hosts and houses, and this is part of its attraction. By opening their homes and their hearts to travellers who need a comfortable bed a night or two, hosts are like instant friends you meet along the way. You have your own room in the host's house and you are served breakfast in the morning. Stay in a Norwegian home Become part of the family in a Troms home. You normally share all domestic facilities with the family. Look out for signs saying "rom ledig" (vacant room). Holiday homes and apartments The tradition of a second home in the mountains, by the sea, river, forest or lake is strong Troms. The Norwegian word for holiday home is "feriehus" or "hytte". Renting a privately owned holiday home is a great way to be self-sufficient. No two homes are the same, so you are getting accommodation with character as well as comfort. Holiday homes range from simple cottages by the sea to luxurious lodges in the mountains. Some were probably built by their owners; others are architect-designed palaces or simply passed on by the family. Fishermen's cabins Originally built as accommodation for visiting fishermen during the fisheries of "Lofoten", fishermen's cabins, or "rorbuer" as they are called in Norwegian, are today immensely popular both amongst Norwegian and foreign holidaymakers. The rorbu cabins are of different standard and sizes. Camp sites Troms has a well developed network of camp sites. They come in all shapes, sizes and standards. They offer a variety of activities and possibilities. Most of them have facilities for caravans and mobile homes. Inns, motels and cottages Inns, motels and cottages offer clean and cosy accommodation with good comforts. They usually have one or two bedrooms, a lounge, a bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen. They are ideal if you prefer to cook your own meals. Larger motels often have facilities similar to hotels. Lodges Always set in beautiful surroundings, lodges are small, intimate and welcoming establishments with between 4 and 20 rooms offering bed, breakfast and dinner. Lyngen Lodge in Djupvik in Kåfjord has a very good standard overlooking the Lyngen Alps. Farms Staying on at a farm is a great way of getting to know real Troms peolpe and to learn more about the farming lifestyles. Some farmstays offer you the chance to stay in the comfort of a typical Troms rural family home, whilst others offer self-contained accommodation. You may get to enjoy home-cooked meals, and you will have the chance to join in with whatever is happening on the farm. Depending on the type of farm and the season, you could experience milking, shearing, lambing or harvesting crops and vegetables. Historical accommodation of special interest Rundhaug Gjestegård has a history of over 100 years. You can stay in rooms that have been occupied by English lords and several Norwegian kings. The guesthouse has recently been fully refurbished whilst at the same time retaining its fantastic atmosphere. Rundhaug Gjestegård also offers cultural and activity packages. Fiskarbondens Stue is a protected, restored nineteenth century building. The house comprises a fully equipped kitchen, three bedrooms with a total of seven beds plus one children's bed and two extra beds, and a bathroom. Latteren Hytteutleie offers accommodation in authentic Art Nouveau style. The house dates from 1924 and was totally refurbished in 1995. Cabins are also available. Hamn i "Senja" offers accommodation and adventures in a historical fishing village. Accommodation is in high standard apartments with en suite bathrooms in all rooms. This unique resort has an idyllic maritime location on Norway’s second largest island, "Senja". Sandtorgholmen Hotell is located on the same place that has been used as a trading post since 1557. The oldest building was built around 1750, and the main house was built in 1910. The main house, which is built in a Swiss chalet style, was built in 1910. All buildings are under renovation and modernisation, and all accommodations will be of very high standard.

   1. "Øksfjordjøkelen"

      Further north, at "Alteidet" , the county road fv. 365 offers a beautiful detour to view Øksfjordjøkelen, the last glacier on the European mainland which breaks off directly into the sea.
   2. "Nordreisa"
   3. "Reisadalen" Reisadalen and Reisa National Park in "Nordreisa" The Reisadalen valley is nearly 50 kilometres long and contains the Reisa River noted for its good salmon fishing. Saraelv, which is the entrance to the Reisa National Park, is located at the end of the road. It is the starting point for the trail, which is part of the "Nordkapp" Path, which carries on to "Kautokeino" in Finnmark to the north, and Northern Sweden to the south. It also goes into Finland via Kilpisjärvi. The trail alongside the river can be a little tough because of the stones. After around 12 kilometres, you will reach the resting place at Sieimmahytta where the national park starts. You can camp in a tent or cabin on the other side of the river, which you may cross using the boat here. After hiking for around four hours, you can see the spectacular Mollisfossen Waterfall on the other side of the river, which plunges 269 metres from the mountainside. If you continue on the trail, you will reach the "Imofossen" Waterfall, a further four hours later. With its large canyon, this waterfall is even more impressive than "Mollisfossen" Waterfall with a waterfall of 269 metres. The powerful Imofossen Waterfall tumbles down two rivers over vertical granite walls, which meet in a narrow ravine with innumerable potholes. Around an hour before Imofossen, you will find the only Troms hiking association cabin in this area called Nedrefosshytta. This four-bedroom cabin sleeping 16 is an ideal base for other day hikes in the area. If you want to return to Saraelv by canoe, this stretch of the "Reisa" River is ideal for beginners and canoes are available for hire. The season runs from mid-June to the end of September. If you love wild places, there are three national parks to discover - from Reisedalen in the north to "Ånderdalen" on the island of "Senja".
   4. "Storslett" A detour to "Skjervøy" , only 30 kilometres from the E6, is another interesting option along the route, as is a stop at the "Reisa" National Park Centre in Storslett.
   5. "Kippernes" recreation area – the children's nature park near "Storslett" in "Nordreisa" at the mouth of the "Reisa" River. The area is suitable for activities for the entire family. A network of trails and roads has been established in the area, dating from the time when this was a harbour and market place for the people of the Northern Cap. Today the trails and roads are used for hiking, horse riding, cycling, jogging and other outdoor activities. During spring and autumn, the continuation of Kippernes provides excellent opportunities for bird watching. On warm summer days, the sandy beach in the lower reaches of the area is used as a swimming spot. You can find prepared cross-country skiing trails here in winter. A loop walk on the area's main trails is around four kilometres, but shorter and longer hikes are also possible. For the most part, the terrain here is flat and the trails are clear although they are not marked. Nature-based experiences to suit all ages and levels of fitness are available at Kippernes. "Nordreisa" Municipal Council is planning improvements to the roads and trails in the summer and autumn of 2009 to make the area accessible also for wheelchair users. Other planned improvements include sign posting, information, rest place and improved toilet and changing facilities. These improvements will enhance experiences in the area without detracting from the reserve’s special character. Directions: Park you car in "Storslett" and walk about 1500 metres along the cycle and walkway beside the E6 highway to the turn off to Kippernes. You can also drive all the way to the recreation area. There is a car park about 250 metres after the turn off where you may park your car and continue on foot. Information: "Storslett" Tourist Information Office (+47 77 77 05 50) and "Halti" National Park Centre (+47 77 77 05 56) where maps and other necessary information are available How to get there: The quickest way from overseas is to fly to Gardermoen/Oslo, continue on a domestic flight to "Tromsø" and then take the short flight to Sørkjosen in "Nordreisa" (25 minutes). You may also travel by bus from "Tromsø" to "Storslett" in "Nordreisa" – there are three daily departures to "Alta" in Finnmark. The bus trip from "Tromsø" to "Storslett" takes around three hours and includes two ferry crossings (20 min and 35 min respectively). This journey also provides an excellent opportunity to see the majestic "Lyngen" Alps from close range. When you reach "Storslett", you will need a rental car or taxi to get all the way out to Saraelv.
   6. "Olderdalen" Experience the coast between Olderdalen and "Gryllefjord". The E6 is the only road southwards until Olderdalen, where an alternative route begins featuring ferries between islands and beautiful coastal scenery. Taking the ferry across to Lyngseidet, driving on rv. 91, and then taking the ferry across the Ullsfjord reduces the travel time to "Tromsø". From Breivikeidet, it is just a 40-minute drive to the city of "Tromsø". Olderdalen - "Gryllefjord" Distance: 255 kilometres Driving time: Approximately 6 hours and 40 minutes
   7. In "Burfjord" , you will find an exhibition on the rebuilding after World War II and an express boat to the island of "Spildra" .
   8. "Kvænangsfjellet" The E6 continues across the Kvænangsfjellet Mountain with its superb views, before heading down to the two fjords, the "Kvænangsfjord" and "Burfjord".
   9. "Uløya" A ferry operates from Rotsund to the island of Uløya, stopping at "Havnnes" , an operational trading post with long traditions with stockfish. Handelsstedet Havnnes is Norway's northernmost preserved trading post, dating from 1795. A residential site for more than 6,000 years, it is still in operation today.
   10. "Kåfjorden" "Knølhval i Kåfjorden" In Kåfjorden, Sami traditions are strong and visible through old traditional handicrafts at "Grenebua" , as well as at

       "Holmenes"

       "turf hut (gamme)" , a Sami farm dating from the 1800s. Historically the turf hut (gamme) was the dominating feature on Coastal Sámi farms. This construction technique was especially popular regarding barns, and was used in some places up until the middle part of the 20th century. This compact building complex housed all of the animals on the Holmenes Farm. Here both the sheep barn and cowshed were built like turf huts. The cowshed even had a fireplace where food was prepared for the animals, something which was common in the Troms County during the first half of the 20th century. The stable, which is situated roughly half a metre from the hayloft, is a building with modest dimensions - used by the Lyngs horse which is a dwarfish horse breed. "turf hut (gamme)" Holmenes sjøsamiske gård Den sjøsamiske kulturen har vært utsatt for et sterkt fornorskningspress i over hundre år. Likevel har både ressursutnyttelse og språk blitt holdt i hevd i Kåfjord. I dag har kulturen fått moderne uttrykk, som for eksempel Riddu Riđđu. På Holmenes sjøsamiske gård kan du oppleve hvordan en sjøsamisk familie levde før krigen og lære noe om kontrastene mellom da og nå. Gården er fra rundt 1850 og var bebodd frem til 1964. Gården består av våningshus, vedsjå, buer, sjåer, brønn, stall, høyløe, fjøsgamme, fjøs og sommerfjøs. Området er på ca. 12 dekar og har vært ryddet og drevet med hest. Alle bygninger er i dag restaurerte eller rekonstruerte, og gården er satt tilbake til slik den så ut rundt 1930. Drifta på gården var basert på en næringstilpasning til utmark, innmark og havet. I utmarka ble skogsslottene utnyttet. Høyet ble lagret i staker og kjørt hjem til gården. Innmarka og det som ble høstet fra utmarka skulle gi for til 2 kyr, 8 – 10 sauer og hest. Skogen ga det nødvendige virke til brensel og materiale til bygningene på tunet. I fjæra i Birtavarre hadde gården Holmenes ei egen fjæbu, som viser gårdens tilknytning til havet. Her ble utstyr og fiskeredskaper oppbevart. Maten ble laget av det gården og naturen rundt kunne gi. I tillegg til mat som kjøtt, fisk og melkeprodukter, ble det plukket bær og urter som ble brukt i husholdningen. Urtene ble også brukt til medisin. På det meste bodde det 14 mennesker på gården. Til daglig var det husmora som hadde ansvaret for familien og gården. Aktiviteter som separering, kjerning, ostekoking, plantefarging, såpekoking og tvinning av tau var vanlige gjøremål. Barna på gården måtte delta i arbeidet fra de var en nevestor. Mennene var aktive på de store sesongfiskeriene i Lofoten og Finnmarka. Mennene bidro også med viktige ressurser skaffet til veie gjennom hjemmefiske og jakt. Kvinnene var dyktige innen utøvelse av husflid. Noen av tradisjonene holdes i hevd den dag i dag, slik som veving av Manndalsgrena. Den ble benytta som sengetøy og som dekke på fjellsamenes lavvo. Grena ble i hovedsak brukt som byttevare på markedet i Skibotn, sammen med blant annet strikkevarer og tyttebær.
   11. <- lõunasse Soome Enontekiö
       "Skibotn" The highway is jointly known as the E6 and E8 until just prior to the town of Skibotn where the E6 continues northwards. Do not miss "Bollmannsveien", which was a part of the World War II defence network built by Russian, Yugoslavian and Polish prisoners of war. The walk up the mountain here offers a fantastic view of the Lyngen Alps. Youth hostels can be found in the valley of "Skibotn".
   12. "Halti" "http://trip.ee/node/10993" mäetipp Soomes Auto tuleb jätta Kilpisjärvile, sealt tippu on u 50km jala paar päeva. Tehniliselt on tipp suhteliselt kerge, siiski peab arvestama, et viimane paarsada meetrit tippu tuleb ületada suurtel kivikamakatel turnides. Seega vihmaga on jalaväänamise oht libeduse tõttu suur. Leida pilt Leida (pole registreerunud) 28 October, 2005 - 20:52. Haltile saab kõige Haltile saab kõige kiiremini Norra kaudu. Soome poolt tulles sõidad käsivarrest Kilpisjärvilt Norra. Skibotenist keerad paremale Alta poole. Umbes 66 km pärast Birtavarre nimelisest asulast keerad paremale mööda orgu sisemaa poole. Tee on alguses korralik ja hiljem pisut auklik kruusatee aga tavalise sõiduautoga täiesti sõidetav. NB! Tee hargnedes hoiad koguaeg paremat haru. Sõidad kuni ette tuleb suur järv nimega Guasjavri (javri ongi saami keeles järv). Järvest möödud jällegi paremalt. Ja tipp ongi tegelikult juba ammu näha. Kui kaugele autoga saab, sõltub paljuski auto kõrgusest ja suve kuivusest. Aga sealt edasi ongi umbes 8 km tippu. Päris tore on tipus näha imestunud kolmepäevasest matkast parkunud nägusid, kui Sina saabud puhanuna ja puhtana ;) Soome kaudu kolmepäevane teekond on ka tore, Väike eksitus. Et autoga Haltile saada, tuleb just vastupidi, hoida vasakut haru. Sel kombel vaikselt lastes saab otse Norrapoolse Halti alla autoga välja. Ühe päevaga käib jalgsi ära, kui veidigi ilma on. Selle kaardi põhjal: "http://www.westcoastpeaks.com/maps/halti.jpg" On lihtsam idapoolne marsruut. Läänepoolsel on Guolasjärvi poole liikudes päris suuri kive millel liikudes peab väikestviisi akrobaatikat tegema ja vältida tuleb järsku põhjapoolset Halti mäenõlva. Veevõtukohti leidub Halti jalamil omajagu. Ridnitšohkkal voolavat vett ei märganud. Piir, mis kaardi peal on sirge, on tegelikult päris sikk-sakk nii, et selle järgi ei maksa orienteeruda. Sääski on kõvasti, isegi tippudes. Mis endal probleeme tekitas on see nimede ja kõrgeimate tippude asi. Halti on nimelt mägi mille tipp (Ráisduattarháldi) on Norras ja mille nõlval, täpselt riigipiiril, on Soome kõrgeim punkt (Hálditšohkka). Soome kõrgeim mägi, ehk mägi mis asub üleni Soomes, on Ridnitšohkka. Nii et peab järgi mõtlema kas soov on käia Soome kõrgeimas punktis või kõrgeimal mäel. Ridnitšohkkaga on selline lugu, et ülaltoodud kaardilt päris täpselt välja ei loe kus see asub, aga silmnähtavalt saavad selleks olla 2 eristuvat küngast – ühe otsas on mobiilimast ja 2 majakest, ning teise otsas (esimesest lõunapool) kivihunnik. Kummagi juures silti pole. Soome wikipedia ütleb, et Ridnitšohkka otsas on mast. Asuvad teineteisest ~15 minuti kaugusel. Halti National Park
   13. "Lyngen" Alps
   14. "Tromsø" The Arctic Cathedral in "Tromsø", built in 1965, is the city's most recognisable feature. This distinctive structure was inspired by Northern Norwegian faith and nature. One of its features is a flaming and extremely original glass mosaic. Polaria in "Tromsø" The only bearded seals in captivity in the world, fish from the area, a panorama film from Spitsbergen and an arctic walk are found in this Arctic experience centre in central "Tromsø". University Museum of Tromsø Sami culture in past and present, archaeology of the north, religious art, geology and northern lights are among the themes in the oldest scientific institution in the north. Fantastic urban panoramas can be found at the top of Mount "Fløya" in "Tromsø", accessible by cable car. The cable car brings you to the absolute best spot for having an overview of the city and enjoy mountain walking without having to put too much effort in it. There is also a mount "Tromsdaltind" in "Tromsø". From "Tromsø", you follow the rv. 862 across the island of "Kvaløya", passing the beautiful "Kattfjord" before the island of "Sommarøy" appears. At Nordkjosbotn, the E6 meets with the E8, which acts as a link between the city of "Tromsø" to the west and the Finnish boarder to the east. Tour suggestion - island-hopping "Tromsø" – "Ringvassøy" – "Vannøy" – "Karlsøy" Distance: 149 kilometres Driving time: Approximately four hours and thirty minutes Cross the bridge from "Tromsø" to "Kvaløya", and then turn right onto rv. 862. Follow the main road (rv. 863) northwards along the fjord to "Ringvassøy". At Hansnes, you will find ferry connections to other islands, including several daily departures to "Vannøy" and Karlsøy. There are several marked hiking trails on "Ringvassøy", "Vannøy"a and "Karlsøya", as well as options for boat hire. Experience the special coastal landscape with a rich bird and animal life, including large white-tailed eagle colonies.
   15. "Sommarøy" A slightly longer, but more attraction-filled, route goes along rv. 858/fv. 54. Over the summer months a ferry operates from Brensholmen, near "Sommarøy", to the island of "Senja". Sommarøy is a vibrant island close to "Tromsø", where fishing and hunting has been the livelihood since time immemorial. You will find rewarding adventures on the outer reaches of this island. The local hotel offers rooms and fishermen’s cabins, conference facilities and tasty meals made from the finest, freshest local ingredients.
   16. "Kattfjord"
   17. "Kvaløya"
   18. "Ringvassøy"
   19. "Vannøy"
   20. "Karlsøya"
   21. "Storsteinnes" Drive three kilometres northwards on E6, then take fv. 296 towards Storsteinnes where you can visit the Fjord Museum. After Storsteinnes, the round trip follows rv. 858 a short distance along the Balsfjord before the road turns inland.
   22. "Heia" The journey continues rv. 857 to Heia, where you rejoin the E6. At Heia, you can buy souvenirs and food from the Sami.
   23. "Skjold" The round trip continues on rv. 87 from "Rundhaug" towards Skjold, from where the road leads to Øvre "Dividal" National Park.
   24. "Rundhaug" Continue on rv. 87 to Rundhaug, where a right-hand turn onto fv. 854 leads to cabins and apartments at "Målselv" Fjellandsby and the family theme park Bluenisseland (opens November 2008).
   25. "Malangen" Follow fv. 184 to the left along the Malangsfjord. A detour on rv. 858 goes around the Malangen Peninsula. The road passes "Aursfjordsaga".
   26. "Aursfjordsaga" a restored sawmill dating from 1796. Follow the road to Olsborg, turn right onto the E6, then turn off onto rv. 855 to return to "Finnsnes".
   27. "Finnsnes" A round trip in Central Troms which enables you to explore real wilderness and the open sea on the same day. Finnsnes - "Senja" - "Gryllefjord" - "Husøy" - "Mefjordvær" - "Bergsfjorden" - "Sifjorden" - "Skrolsvik" Distance: 202 kilometres Driving time: Approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes Alternatively, drive from "Senja" towards "Finnsnes" and experience the beautiful coastal route through Southern Troms. Then head south on rv. 86 towards "Sørreisa", and continue on rv. 84 to Løksebotn. From Løksebotn the rv. 848 leads towards Ibestad and "Harstad".

   28. "Sørreisa" "Naturgeografi i Sørreisa"

       1. "Storneset" Klassisk droppsteinsfjære i "Sørreisa", rett nedenfor bebyggelsen på "Storneset". Droppsteinsfjære er et interessant fenomen og forteller oss om skiftende tider, klimamessig. La oss tenke oss kalde perioder hvor hele Solbergfjorden og strandområder var nediset vinterstid og ei tid hvor vår og sommrene var kortere og fuktigere. En slik kaldperiode var det på 1700-tallet; kalt den lille istid. I denne ”istida” vokste alle breene i Skandinavia faretruende mye, og det holdt faktisk på å gå riktig ille. Så ille var det at det ble hungersnød i landet. På denne tida plukket isen med seg løs stein som lå i fjæra og fraktet den med seg. Når isen strandet i fjæra og smeltet, ble steinene liggende igjen, derav navnet droppstein. Siden har havet vasket rundt steinene og formet dem til.

       2. Jettegrytene i "Tømmerelva"

          Fra "Rabbåsen" og nedover mot "Reisvatnet" renner "Tømmerelv"a på berggrunn bestående av marmor. Marmor er en myk bergart som lett lar seg forme av ytre påvirkninger. Under snøsmelting om våren og etter langvarig regnvær, når vannføringa i elva er stor, frakter vannet med seg store mengder løsmateriale, fra de fineste partikler og opp til store steiner, avhengig av vannføringen. Løsmassene skurer på berggrunnen og enkelte steder hvor det blir dannet strømvirvler graver steinene groper i berggrunnen. Slike groper, eller jettegryter som de kalles, er det mange av på strekningen fra "Rabbåsen" til "Reisvatnet". Størrelsen varierer fra de minste med en diameter på 5-6 cm til de største på 2,5- 3 meter. Den største forekomsten av jettegryter finnes ved plantefeltet på vestsida av vegen før man kommer til avkjøringa til gården

          "Bjørklund"

          dersom man kjører fra "Sørreisa" mot "Bardufoss". Det beste tidspunkt for å beskue fenomenet er når elva har lite vannføring. Bilder fra jettegrytene i "Tømmerelv"a: Mønster av jettegryter Rundslipte steiner i jettegryte Tørr jettegryte Bading i jettegryte To dype jettegryter Stor jettegryte
       3. "Nordsida" Steingjerdene på "Nordsida" i "Sørreisa". Da gårdene på "Nordsida" ble ryddet, ble det funnet mye stor stein som måtte bort. Disse steinene ble lagt i skillet mellom eiendommene og på grensen til utmark. I dag er steinene begrodd av mose og lav, men ruver fortsatt i terrenget. Steingjerdene representerer mye slit og tungt arbeid og står i dag som et kulturminne fra rydningstiden. Berggrunnen i "Sørreisa" består for det meste av marmor og glimmerskifer, og en burde forvente at steinene som ble ryddet vekk fra dyrkningsjorda skulle være av samme slag. Dette er ikke tilfelle! Mesteparten av steinene er av bergarten granitt og granittisk gneis og har avrundede former. Spørsmålet blir da; Hvor kommer disse steinene fra og hvorfor er de så runde i formene? Svaret må man tilbake til siste istid for å finne: Under nedsmeltingsperioden hadde innlandsisen, som dekket hele Skandinavia, en brearm som kom ned Målselvdalføret og ut Solbergfjorden. Denne mektige armen hadde med seg store mengder løsmasser. Noe av disse løsmassene ble lagt igjen som bunnmorene i "Sørreisa". Det er i denne bunnmorenen steinen som danner steingjerdene på "Nordsida" i "Sørreisa" kommer fra. I løpet av turen hit har steinene blitt slipt i kantene og avrundet. Hvor stammer de så fra siden det i all hovedsak er granitt? For å finne granitt i berggrunnen må vi helt til Sverige. Granitten i "Sørreisa" må følgelig være fraktet med isen fra vårt naboland. Bilder fra Steingjerdene på Nordsia: Flyttblokker ved "Kollen" : Bildet viser flytt- blokker av granitt nord for plantefeltet ved "Kollen". Steinrøys etter rydding av dyrkningsjord: Steinhaugen er dannet ved rydding av stein på dyrkningsjord. Steingjerdene sett fra "Kollen": Det er i det sentrale området av bildet at steingjerdene finnes. Steingjerde ved "Kollen": Bildene viser steingjerdet vest for plantefeltet ved "Kollen". Steingjerdet danner skille mellom inn og utmark.
       4. Marin Grense ved "Finnset" og i "Skøelv" . Hele Skandinavia var dekket av is under siste istid. Istida hadde sitt maksimum for 23 000 år siden. Vekten av isen under istida gjorde at jordskorpa ble trykket ned (dette er et ca 1:3 forhold; for eksempel 100 m is trykket landskapet ned 30 m, 200 m is trykket landskapet ned 60 m osv.). Isen i Skandinavia var tykkest over sentrale deler av Bottenviken, og her var istykkelsen ca 3000 m. Det vil si at jordskorpa var trykket ned ca 1000 m i forhold til i dag. Enda foregår det landheving i de områdene der hvor isen lå tykkest. Her ute ved kysten hvor "Finnset" og "Skøelv" ligger var istykkelsen tynnere, kanskje ca 1000 m. Landskapet her var trykket ned ca 300 meter i forhold til dagens nivå. Når isen smeltet ned og istida tok slutt for ca 10 000 år siden, flommet havet inn over det nedtrykte landskapet. Her kan man i dag se sporene etter havets nivå fra tiden rett etter siste istid. Vi finner spor etter tidligere havnivå tydeligst i dalførene, fra "Skøelv" "Samvirkelag" og opp til kirkegården, og fra "Krogstad" på "Finnset" og opp til gården "Bjørklund" . Marin grense (øverste nivå hvor havet har stått) begge steder er målt til ca 70 meter over dagens havnivå. Marin grense er markert i terrenget som ei tydelig utflating, og en kan generelt si at det er opp til marin grense at vi i dag finner brukbar dyrkningsjord i området. Få gårdsbruk finnes ovenfor kirkegården i "Skøelv" og ovenfor gården "Bjørklund" i "Sørreisa". (Andre gårder som i "Rabbåsen" og i "Gumpedalen" ligger på løsmasser som elvene har lagt igjen) Øvre marin grense ved kirkegården i "Skøelv" (bildet til venstre) og ved gården "Bjørklund" (bildet til Høyre) Klikk på bildene for å se store bilder. Bildene åpnes i eget vindu. Senere har landskapet hevet seg til det nivået vi har i dag. Hevinga av landskapet førte til at elvene (bl.a. "Tømmerelv"a og "Skøelv"a) begynte å grave seg ned i de bløte avsetningene, og de skiftet også løp fra tid til annen. I dag kan vi se spor etter de forskjellige løp elvene har hatt. Gården "Bjørklund" (se bildet) ligger på ei stor deltaflate. Deltaflata ble dannet der smeltevannselva fra brearmen i dalføret mot øst møtte havet. Samme tilfellet var det i "Skøelv".
       5. "Mølnelva" Rundsva med skuringsstriper I droppsteinsfjæra, hvor "Mølnelva" renner ut, finner vi også velutviklet, skulpturerte rundsva. Det er isen som har skulpturert disse. Bunnmorenen som delvis var fastfrosset i isen laget spor på underlaget når isen beveget seg. Disse skuringsstripene kan sees den dag i dag og forteller oss om bevegelsesretninga til breen.
   29. "Målselv" This is a wonderful hike to the peak of "Istind".
       1. "Altevann" A dead end road to Lake Altevann takes you to a wilderness area, where it is possible to go canoeing. Continue on the E6, and then turn right onto rv. 87. This route passes "Målselvfossen" Waterfall. The many thousands of lakes in Troms can be a destination in themselves or a moment of tranquillity on the way to somewhere else. The biggest of these lakes is Altevann - it is the size of a small country and one of Troms' top trout fishing destinations. Most of the lakes were born from the same kind of glacial action that created the fjords.
       2. "Blåtind"

          "Mårfjellskardet"

          "http://194.9.32.142/article.php?sid=18043" sacrificial site Alternate Name: Finnkirka Nearest Town: Tromsø Latitude: 69.132825N Longitude: 18.524774E This is actually not only one sacrificial site, but two. It is not known if they are connected to each other in any way, they are within a distance of about 50 metres away from each other. The first one consists of four massive cube shaped natural boulders, two really large ones, about 12 metres tall and 12-15 metres wide with a small space between them. Two smaller flat ones are laying into the larger ones, they are flat on top, and look almost as an altar. There is a small crack between the larger boulders, and we found pieces of reindeer horns inside the crack. Reindeer horns and meat were very commonly used as sacrificial goods. The stones are visible from a very far distance. Both sites are laying on a huge mountain plateau between two mountains, one in the north-west and the other one in south-east. To get there, you have to walk trough the forest below the mountain, up through a really steep mountainside, and then the stone is visible on a far distance high up on the mountain plateau. The site is about 500-600 metres above sea level. The view from this site, and of course, from the top of the stone is beautiful! You can see really far from this place. The other site is located about 50 metres south of the huge boulders. It is also further up in the mountainside. It is not as impressive as the first one, but it is just as interesting! It consists of a huge round stone laying balanced on top of a smaller one. It is almost human-shaped with shoulders, neck and head. It has been used as a icon of a old semi god. There have been sacrificial rites here too, but if it is connected to the other one, or have been in use at the same time, or separated is uncertain. There is a crack between the stones. There are still some pieces of reindeer horns, but have they been sacrificed or got there in a natural way? This space was said to be filled up with bones just 50 years ago, and this site has been in use up to the modern age! Traces of armoured tracks are visible right beside the stone! The whole area is inside a military training ground for artillery and tanks! But the military removed their training ground to another location because of prehistoric sites in this area! A battle is won for all historians and everyone with an interest in prehistory! I Mauken- Blåtind er det registrert flere sieidier og i Beardu (Bardu), Málat (Målselv) og Bácchavuotna (Balsfjord) kommuner finnes det enda flere. Her skal nevnes noen eksempler, der flere har tilknytning til Mauken – Blåtind. De fleste som blir beskrevet har folk ennå kjennskap til, gjennom sagn, myter og fortellinger. I Láhku (Mårfjellskardet) i Mauken – Blåtind er det registrert to sieidier Disse tilhører en gruppe av flere samiske offerplasser eller sieidier i denne regionen som det knytter seg muntlig tradisjon til. Om den største bjørnesteinene fortelles det:... ”Det var en gang en same som gjeta rein i området. Han ble angrepet av en bjørn og måtte derfor klatre opp på en stor stein hvor det bare var mulig å komme opp fra øversiden av steinen. Bjørnen prøvde også å klatre opp på steinen, men oppe på toppen av steinen er det løse heller som samen tok løs og slo bjørnen på snuten med. Etter to dager måtte bjørnen gi seg og gå derifra. ” (Birkely 1991). Denne offersteinen er også den første steinen i Láhku (Mårfjellskardet) som blir bar om våren.

       3. "Målselvfossen"

          Waterfall close to "Bardufoss", is Norway's national waterfall and features Europe's longest salmon ladder, dating from around 1900. The glass viewing area, which opens in mid-June, enables visitors to study wild salmon at close range.
   30. "Dyrøy" Visit the local witch at Dyrøy and see one of Europe's longest salmon ladders at "Målselvfossen" Waterfall. Follow rv. 86 to "Sørreisa" and rv. 84 to "Sjøvegan". A detour to Dyrøy enables you to visit the local witch. "Sørreisa" - Dyrøy - "Salangselva" - "Altevann" - "Målselvfossen" - "Rundhaug" - "Skjold" - "Heia" - "Storsteinnes" - "Malangen" - "Aursfjordsaga" Distance: 297 kilometres Driving time: Approximately five hours
   31. "Andørja" the island in Northern Europe with the largest number of mountains. The bridge leads across to the mainland, from where you drive southwards on rv. 84 towards "Sjøvegan". At the end of the "Salangselva" River you will find Elvelund Camping which organises caving trips. Continue south on rv. 84 to Lavangen and turn right and follow rv. 141 along the coast. At the head of the next fjord, you will discover the North Norwegian Ship Preservation Centre and Boat Museum, where you can catch a glimpse of the coastal heritage and the restoration of old boats. The route continues on rv. 825, known as the Coastal Heritage Road, towards "Harstad". The road passes "Ebbestua" , a restored traditional Nordland house. After the "Tjeldsund" Bridge, turn right onto rv. 83 to return to "Harstad".
   32. "Salangselva" At the end of the Salangselva River you will find Elvelund Camping which organises caving trips.
   33. "Sjøvegan"
   34. "Bardu"
       1. "Bardufoss" The inland town of Bardufoss has an airport with flight connections to Oslo, as well as Polarbadet (an indoor water park). After Bardufoss, the E6 leaves the wide open valleys and plains of the inland area and heads towards the coast and fjords.
       2. "Istindan" Experience the county of Troms' three distinct cultures, and scenery that changes from valleys to mountain ranges and moors to fjords. The E6 highway passes straight through the county of Troms on its way to "Nordkapp". Start by visiting Polar Zoo, one of the world’s northernmost zoological park, and continue with several interesting local museums. The beautiful Istindan Mountains in "Bardu" serve as a landmark in the south of the county and are a challenge to conquer. to "Alteidet" Distance: 370 kilometres Driving time: Approximately six hours Istind in Målselv – summit ascent This is a wonderful hike to the peak of Istind (1425 metres above sea level). Istind is regarded as a landmark in "Målselv", which you will see if you fly into "Bardufoss". The trail starts at an altitude of about 70 metres above sea level and ends at the peak (1425 metres above sea level) with climbing virtually the entire way. The trail is marked and to begin with follows a stream, which can be refreshing when you are climbing up. The last stretch follows a rock wall with a fantastic glacier on your left. This is regarded as a medium to demanding hike. You should allow about three hours up and almost as long again for the descent. The season runs from mid-June to the end of September (depending on the extent of the winter snowfall). Information: "Finnsnes" Tourist Information Office, phone +47 77 85 07 30 How to get there: Fly to "Bardufoss" (Snowman International Airport) then drive by rental car to Fjellstad, which is about 15 kilometres from the airport. If you are driving southwards on the main E6 highway, continue to the Elverum intersection then turn left in the direction of "Rundhaug" then the next right (Fjellstad) and continue for around three kilometres. There is a car park and an information board detailing the hike. If you are driving northwards on the E6 highway, turn right when you reach the Elverum intersection.
   35. "Sørrollnes" Discover lush fjords and islands in Southern Troms. A round-tour off the beaten track to "Harstad", Ibestad, Salangen and Gratangen is a great experience. Take the ferry from "Harstad" to Sørrollnes, where a vigorous climate contributes to 17 different varieties of orchids growing on the island. "Hamnvik" is an historic trading post dating from 1794. An underground tunnel takes you to "Andørja". "Harstad" - Ibestad - Salangen - Gratangen Distance: 220 kilometres Driving time: Approximately five hours
   36. "Senja" From "Finnsnes", a bridge leads across to Senja, Norway’s second largest island. Rv. 861 towards "Gibostad" and

       "Senjahopen"

       takes you through a lush coastal landscape with steep mountains and small fishing villages. The Senja Troll, the world's largest troll, with troll shows and tableaux of Senja's legends. Hiking the length of the Senja island (the full length of Senja from north to south) is a beautiful coastal route. This somewhat demanding hiking route is around 70 kilometres and passes through all four of Senja's municipalities and Ånderdalen National Park. The terrain is hilly, but the views are spectacular and the variation of terrain is exciting. It's natural to spread the hike over four days. Accommodation options along the route are the hiking association's cabins (you need to arrange a key in advance), turf huts or a tent. It is also possible to walk each of the four stages as stand alone day hikes since the trail has several possible access routes. The normal starting point for the full trail is north-west of the power station at the "Helvetesfossen" or the "Svarthola" Tunnel, which is slightly further north. This gives you the option of climbing "Breitind" mountain. The trail ends in the south by "Olaheimen" in "Tranøy" Municipality. If you give the detour up Bretind a miss, the highest point is around 850 metres above sea level. The trail passes through mountain beech forests and coastal pine forests in the national park. Several good fishing lakes are scattered along the route, where you may fish for species including trout. ! "Heiavatnet" ,

       "Bunkevatnet"

       "Bunkevatnet, mot Heiavatnet og Bunkeskjulet" near "Rødsand" road , "Fagervikkollen" "View from the top of Fagervikkollen" When you reach the route's largest lake, "Åndervatnet", you may choose to end the hike by walking six kilometres on the well-marked trail to "Tranøybotn", where you will find good accommodation and parking options linked to the national park. The short hike into Åndervatnet is suitable for children and older people who are not so keen on climbing. The "Senja" trail is partially marked with cairns and the hiking association's red T markers. Improvements to sign-posting and marking are planned. Apart from the "Senja" trail, "Senja" offers many wonderful day hikes up mountains for spectacular views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. Several accommodation establishments serve as ideal starting points for these day hikes. Several wonderful day hikes are situated along the National Tourist Route along the island's northern coast from "Gryllefjord" to "Botnhamn", which also includes three detours. The hiking season in "Senja" normally runs from mid-June to the end of September, with the best period starting in mid-July. Information: A hiking map of "Senja" is on sale at the tourist information office in "Finnsnes", where you can also get other necessary information about hiking routes and accommodation options. See visittroms.no or call +47 77 85 07 30. How to get there: The quickest way from overseas is to fly to Gardermoen/Oslo and continue on a domestic flight to "Tromsø" (1 hour 50 minutes) or "Bardufoss" (1 hour 40 minutes). You may travel from "Tromsø" to "Finnsnes" by express boat (1 hour 10 minutes) or bus and continue from "Finnsnes" by local bus ("Senja" Rutebil). If you are planning several day hikes on the island then renting a car is a better option. If you arrive in "Bardufoss", you may take the airport express bus from Snowman International Airport to "Finnsnes" (45 minutes) and then continue by local bus or rental car. If you drive the whole way northwards, just follow the main E6 highway to "Bardufoss" then turn off to "Senja".
       1. "Helvetesfossen" power station at the Helvetesfossen Waterfall in Lenvik Municipality

       2. "Breitind"

          the island's highest mountain is around 1000 metres above sea level.
       3. "Ersfjord" ( not the "jettegryter i Nissedal" nor the "Jettegrytene ved Sild; Risør" ) Her fra Tungesneset i Ersfjord på Senja. De blankskurte svabergene med alle c ligger nydelig til ned mot havet, med øyas villeste fjellrekke midt imot. Ersfjord er et lite, vakkert sted med den fineste badestranda i Troms. The Devil's row of teeth & also known as Okshornan (The Horns of the Bull).
       4. "Åndervatnet" the "Senja" route's largest lake. The short hike into Åndervatnet is suitable for children and older people who are not so keen on climbing.
       5. "Tranøybotn" where you will find good accommodation and parking options linked to the national park. As such, Tranøybotn is an ideal starting point for hiking in the national park.
       6. "Botnhamn" The National Sceninc Route on the island of "Senja". The stretch of road between Botnhamn and "Gryllefjord" (rv. 862 and rv. 86), with detours to "Husøy", "Mefjordvær" and Bøvær, will in 2012 form part of the national tourist routes and has been named "Crossing the Devil’s Jaw". The nature is dramatic and the vibrant fishing villages provide authenticity.
       7. "Husøy" The 12-kilometre detour to Husøy on fv. 277 enables you to experience a vibrant fishing community with a climate so harsh that some houses have been wired to the ground.
       8. "Mefjordvær" Rv. 862 and rv. 86 on "Senja" passes "Breitind" , "Senja"’s highest mountain, and the village of Mefjordvær, which has a fascinating history and a beautiful view of the sea. On the other side of the tunnel lie the "Ersfjord" , "Steinfjord" and the "Bergsfjord" . A stop at the view points provides a panoramic view of the "Okshornan" mountain range, also known as the "Devil’s Jaw".
       9. "Bergsfjorden" Rv. 862 ends at Strømsbotn and the route continues to the right on rv. 86. Bergsfjorden contains 98 islands and the main road passes the "Senja" Troll, Hamn i "Senja" and the ruins of the "Senja" Nickel Works en route to the fishing village of "Gryllefjord". The nickel works had the world’s first water-powered electricity plant. A 20-minute walk from the road leads to the ruins of the dam. Drive a further five kilometres and you come to "Torsken" Church, a red cruciform church, which dates from 1784. The road ends here and rv. 86 returns to "Finnsnes".
       10. "Gryllefjord" "http://www.senjafergene.no" won an architectural award in 2007 and has an exciting history. From "Gryllefjord" on "Senja", you can take the summer ferry to "Andøya" in "Vesterålen" and continue to "Lofoten". Lonley Plante's Norwegian travel guide, has characterized the coastal scenery between "Andenes" in "Andøya" and Gryllefjord in "Senja" as the most magnificent in Norway south of Svalbard. The "Andenes"-Gryllefjord is 19,5 nautical miles and is serviced by the M/F «Lødingen». Crossing time approx. 1 h. 40 min. This ferry is only in traffic during the summer season. Starting 23rd of May. You can also call +47 76 14 12 03 for information.

       11. "Sifjorden"

           Fv. 274 leaves the main road and takes you down to Sifjorden. The Sami Museum is situated a short distance from the road. The hairpin bends on the mountain road add to the experience. "Flakstadvåg" is situated on the left, whilst on the right lies "Grunnfarnes" with a cultural heritage trail taking you back to the Iron Age.
       12. "Skrolsvik" Rv. 860 to Skrolsvik goes past "Ånderdalen" National Park. Turn off at Stonglandseidet to visit "Hofsøy" Farm, which enjoys a history dating back more than 4,000 years. Attractions in Skrolsvik include the Halibut Museum and the "Senjahesten" Coastal Fort Museum.

3. "Nordland"

   "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Norway/North/Nordland2/Key-facts-on-Nordland/" "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Norway/North/Nordland2/Tour-Suggestions/" "http://www.visitnordland.no/index.php?set_lang=en" Nordland covers a surface area of more than 38,000 square kilometres and has a spectacular coastline of approximately 14,000 kilometres and more than 18,000 islands. Nordland has 236,000 inhabitants. "Bodø" is the capital of the county with a population of 46,000. The Sami population in Nordland consist of three different language groups with concentrated settlement in different parts of the county. Nordland has five regions: Helgeland Salten "Lofoten" "Vesterålen" Ofoten Major towns "Bodø" (approximately 46,000 inhabitants) Mo i Rana (approximately 25,000 inhabitants) "Narvik" ( 18,400 inhabitants) "Sortland" (approximately 9,700 inhabitants) Mosjøen (approximately 13,000 inhabitants) "Fauske" (approximately 10,000 inhabitants) Brønnøysund (approximately 7,500 inhabitants) Sandnessjøen (approximately 5,700 inhabitants) "Svolvær" (approximately 4,300 inhabitants) "Stokmarknes" (approximately 3,000 inhabitants) "Leknes" (approximately 2,000 inhabitants) History People have lived in Nordland for more than 12,000 years. The first traces of human settlements are found along the coastline, on the "Vega" Islands, near "Saltstraumen" outside "Bodø", Steigen and "Lødingen". The midnight sun The whole of Nordland can enjoy the midnight sun from the end of April until the middle of August. Approximate dates for seeing the midnight sun:"Svolvær" 27 May - 17 July "Bodø" 3 June - 8 July Highest mountain The highest mountain in Nordland is Oksskolten (1,915 metres above sea level). Have you heard the tale of how the mountains of Nordland got such fascinating names? The legend tells stories about mountains such as Torghatten near Brønnøysund, De syv søstre (The Seven Sisters) near Sandnessjøen and Hestmannen in Lurøy. Norway is at its narrowest (4.3 kilometres) at Hellemobotn in the municipality of "Tysfjord". By car The E6 road runs right through Nordland. The E10 road runs from the Swedish border near "Narvik" all the way out to "Moskenes"øy, the outermost of the inner four main "Lofoten" Islands. You can also choose the beautiful Kystriksveien - the coastal highway that runs along rv. 17 from Steinkjer in Central Norway right up to "Bodø". Other scenic routes worth driving are the national tourist route through "Lofoten" and the national tourist along the coast of Helgeland. By ferries Nordland is a long, narrow coastal county, which also means that there are many ferry connections. The ferry trips give you a break from driving. Use the time to admire the beautiful landscape or relax with your fellow passengers. Road ferry connections in Nordland: E6 "Bognes" - Skarberget: 25 minutes E6/rv. 85 "Bognes" – "Lødingen": 60 minutes E10/rv. 81 (E6) "Svolvær" – Skutvik: 2 hours E10/rv. 82 "Fiskebøl" – "Melbu": 25 minutes Rv. 80/E10 "Bodø" – "Moskenes": Approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes E6/rv. 827 "Drag" – Kjøpsvik: Approximately 45 minutes Rv. 82/rv. 86 "Andenes" – "Gryllefjord" ("Senja"): 1 hour and 45 minutes (summer service) Kystriksveien (rv. 17) includes the following ferry connections in Nordland: Forøy – Ågskardet: 10 minutes Jektvik – Kilboghamn: 1 hour Leirvika – Hemnesberget: 25 minutes Nesna – Levang: 25 minutes Tjøtta – Forvik: 1 hour Andalsvåg – Horn: 20 minutes Vennesund – Holm: 20 minutes By plane Nordland has two main airports: "Bodø" Airport and "Harstad" /"Narvik" Airport "Evenes". These have routes operated by SAS, Norwegian and Widerøe from most other Norwegian airports. New for summer 2008 is Widerøe’s direct route from Bergen to "Bodø" during the period 30 June – 19 August. There will be four departures per week and the travel time is just two hours. Widerøe also flies between a number of short-runway airports in Nordland: "Andøya" Airport "Andenes", "Stokmarknes" Airport Skagen, "Svolvær" Airport Helle, "Leknes" Airport, "Narvik" Airport Framnes, Mo i Rana Airport Røssvoll, Mosjøen Airport Kjærstad, Sandnessjøen Airport Stokka and Brønnøysund Airport Brønnøy. In addition, Lufttransport operates the "Bodø" – "Værøy" route and Kato Air the route "Bodø" – "Røst". By train The Norwegian State Railways (NSB) operates the Nordland Line which runs between Trondheim and "Bodø". The train calls at the following stations in Nordland: "Bodø", Mørkved, Valnesfjord, "Fauske", Rognan, Røkland, Lønsdal, Dunderland, Skonseng, Mo i Rana, Bjerka, Drevvatn, Mosjøen, Trofors, Svenningdal and Majavatn. By bus Nor-Way Bussekspress operates a number of express bus routes to and in Nordland. There are also many different local bus companies to get you around the county. By "Hurtigruten" (The Norwegian Coastal Voyage) Nordland actually encompasses a quarter of Norway’s coastline and the different "Hurtigruten" ships ply the whole of this beautiful seaway. Take the whole voyage and join one of the many excursions in Nordland, or combine your journey in Nordland with shorter stretches by "Hurtigruten". "Hurtigruten"’s ports of call in Nordland are: "Risøyhamn", "Sortland", "Stokmarknes", "Svolvær", "Stamsund", "Bodø", Ørnes, Nesna, Sandnessjøen and Brønnøysund. By express boats There are daily return services between "Bodø" - Sandnessjøen and "Bodø" – "Svolvær", with extra departures on certain days during the summer. There are also express boat services from larger ports elsewhere in the county, with daily departures out to the islands and along the coast of Nordland.
   1. "Vesterålen" "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Norway/North/Winter-in-Vesteralen/" It is easy and inexpensive to make a short or long visit to Vesterålen by air, bus, car or by the "Hurtigruten". Vesterålen has two airports at "Andenes" and "Stokmarknes", with direct flights to "Tromsø" and "Bodø". There is an airport bus from Vesterålen to the main airport at "Evenes".

      1. "Andøya"

         The Andøya Bridge crosses the strait of Risøysundet that used to be so shallow that it had to be dug out so that the "Hurtigruten" (the Norwegian Coastal Voyage) ships could get through. The island of Andøya should be seen from both sides. It is full of cultural relics, burial mounds from the Middle Ages and the Iron Age. On the outer side of the island the road traverses an open coastal landscape with a view of the Norwegian Sea. The tiny communities are clustered together, as though for protection against the ocean and strong winds, where even the tarmac has been blown off the roads.
         1. "Andenes" Lonley Plante's Norwegian travel guide, has characterized the coastal scenery between Andenes in "Andøya" and "Gryllefjord" in "Senja" as the most magnificent in Norway south of Svalbard. The Andenes-"Gryllefjord" is 19,5 nautical miles and is serviced by the M/F «Lødingen». Crossing time approx. 1 h. 40 min. This ferry is only in traffic during the summer season. Starting 23rd of May. You can also call +47 76 14 12 03 for information.
         2. Andøy Touristinformation Hamnegata 1c, Fyrvika, N-8483 Andenes, Norway Tlf. +47 76 14 12 03 - Fax. +47 76 14 12 04 E-mail: post@andoyturist.no Openinghours at Andøy Touristoffice: Open all year round, monday-friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. From June 15 to August 20 openinghours between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.. You will find us on the harbour by the lighthouse, Hamnegata 1c
         3. "The Whale Centre" Exhibition of whales and whale research Slides show. Daily guided tours. Souvenir shop and cafe. At the Whale Centre you can also join the "The Royal International Whale Safari Club" - providing you with a lasting memory from your visit to Andenes, while at the same time helping to support whale research. Season: 25/5- 15/9 Openinghours: 25/5-15/6 og 16/8-15/9: 08:30.-16:00 16/6-15/8: 08:30.-19.00 Price: Adults NOK 60,-. Children NOK 30,-Adresse Andenes centre Telefon +47 76 11 56 00 Fax +47 76 11 56 10 E-mail booking@whalesafari.no Internett www.whalesafari.no The Whale & Dolphin Conservation Society (WDCS), som har spesialisert seg på å vurdere tilbud om hvalsafari, gir oss denne attesten: «Hvalsafari AS på Andenes – verdens største og beste operatør av arktisk hvalsafari». kaselot ehk võidisvaal: Odontoceti Physeter macrocephalus mõõk- e mõrtsukvaal: Odontoceti-Orcinus Orca vaguvaal: Mysticeti Balaenoptera acutorostrata
         4. "HISNAKUL" An impressive and exciting natural history centre illustrating the meeting of Man and Nature in a North Norwegian coastal environment, in Andøya, where you can learn more about seabirds, the Northern Lights, the countryside, the fisheries and the local cultural history. Internet café. Season: 01/01-31/12 Openinghours: 10-18 Adresse Andenes centre Telefon +47 76 14 12 03 Fax +47 76 14 12 04 E-mail post@hisnakul.no Internett "http://www.hisnakul.no"
         5. "Rocketrange" "http://www.rocketrange.no" The Northern Light Centre Science centre which has the northern light in focus. There are exhibitions and models that indicate the secrets of the northern light, the physics of the atmosphere and the activity at Andøya Rocketrange. The northern light exhibition is produced by The Norwegian Technical museum and Andøya Rocketrange. Season: 20/6-15/8 Openinghours: 12-14 Adresse Andenes sentrum Telefon +47 76 14 44 00 Fax E-mail info@rocketrange.no
         6. "Museumnord" "www.museumnord.no" Polar museum Local hunting and fisheries museum with special emphasis on the hunter Hilmar Nøis’ winter expeditions to Spitzbergen. Season: 25/6-15/8Adresse Andenes sentrum Telefon +47 76 11 54 32 Fax +47 76 11 54 31
         7. "Andenes Fyr" Andenes Lighthouse was opened in 1859 and is still in use, although it has now been automated. The lighthouse is 40 metres tall and has an inside staircase with 148 steps. You are welcome to visit the lighthouse, and diplomas will be awarded to those reaching the top. Location: Andenes town centre. Season: 15/6-30/8Adresse Andenes sentrum Telefon +47 76 14 12 03 (Touristinformation) Fax +47 76 11 54 31
         8. "Andøy" Outdoor Centre Visit the westernmost offshoot of the vast Siberian Taiga, treasure the sight of Norway’s oldest pine tree and try a guided owl safari in "Forfjorddalen" . Experience the arctic landscape from a kayak and get up close to seals, golden eagles, gulls and eider ducks. Feel the frozen water beneath your feet, as you drill a hole in the ice and hope for a good catch of fish. Hiking at dawn with a guide in fantastically beautiful surroundings, in search of the king of the forest – the elk unsuspectingly browsing in the valley. Stimulate your palate with local game specialities of elk or reindeer, finished off with cloudberries in the farmhouse kitchen of Andøy Outdoor Centre – voted “the most innovative restaurant in Nordland in 2006”. Lower yourself into an outdoor hot tub and count the stars of the polar night. Dream sweet dreams about the day’s discoveries in comfortable and well equipped wilderness cabins. New experiences like kiting, skiing or a sleigh ride await you next morning.
         9. "Bleikstranda" "http://www.bleik.no" With a length of 2.5 kilometres, Bleikstranda is probably Norway’s longest sandy beach. A popular destination for outings in all kinds of weather. Adresse 8481 Bleik
         10. "Bleik" visit the seabird colony on the island
         11. "Nordmela" nature reserve with common seals
         12. Atelier "Nøss" "http://www.atelier-noss.com" Visit the family Tollefsen's atelier on the west side of Andøya, in the village Nøss. Opening hours: 07.07.07 – 05.08.07: Tuesday – Sunday from 12-17 (Monday closed)Adress Nøss Telephone 761 26 609 / 928 14 668 E-mail post@atelier-noss.com
         13. "Skjoldehamn" "jettegryte" The tide hasn't started yet, and usually this pothole ("jettegryte" in Norwegian) is hidden beneath the water. We're still on the west side, but a little north of the previous photo.
         14. "Bukkekirka"
         15. "Dverberg" Kirke Octagonal and distinctive.
         16. "Åse" "http://www.uppakra.se/docs/uppakra6/16_Solberg.pdf" The courtyard sites consist of a collection of house grounds situated around an oval, semi-circular or horseshoe- shaped courtyard, with the short front wall towards the inner yard. Courtyard sites are present in Southwest, Central and North Norway, but not in other parts of Scandinavia. The number of houses on each site varies. In North Norway the largest site, at Bjarkøy, has sixteen houses, the smallest, at Bøstad, only four. Excavations of the northern sites mainly took place in the 1940ies and 1950ies, but were largely unpublished until the 1970ies. The archaeological material from the sites is limited, and the chronology depends mainly upon radio- carbon datings. The majority of the sites seem to have been established in the 3rd century as houses or barracks for chieftains’ men. This interpretation is based upon the location of the courtyard sites on ground unfavourable or unsuitable for agriculture and their proximity to homes of Viking chieftains. The largest sites may – at least in periods – have housed between 160–320 men. The background for the establishing of these strongholds is the combination of valuable resources in the north and demand from outside for these resources, mainly from the Roman Empire. The chieftains in the north were entrepreneurs who engaged their men in activities related to whaling, hunting and probably also in obtaining tribute from the Saami. The Åse site consisted of fourteen house grounds, but only two were excavated
         17. Electrical Transformer sheds become art Five grey transformer sheds are transformed into art in Vesterålen. You can find them in "Risøyhamn" (Andøy), Vinjesjøen (Bø), Stokmarknes (Hadsel), the centerof Sortland and Myre (Øksnes). The picture to the right shows the transformer in Andøy made by Siri Tollefsen.
         18. "Risøyhamn" "http://www.museumnord.noi" Andøymuseet (Bygdetunet) & Kongesteinen i Risøyhamn Local village museum in "Risøyhamn". For details of opening times, contact the Polar Museum. Adresse Telefon +47 76 11 54 32(Polarmuseet) Fax +47 76 11 54 31
         19. "Bølgeblikk" gallery Run by Dutch artist. Studio, exhibition and sale of art and applied art. Jewellery, paintings, sculptures. Openinghours: June 1 to August 20: Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Aug. 21 to May 31, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Location: "Risøyhamn", vis-à-vis the Coastal Express docks Adress Like ved hurtigrutekaia i "Risøyhamn". Telephone +4776145100. Private. +47 76147514 E-mail dick.monshouwer@c2i.net
      2. "Langøya" is the third largest island of Norway (except for Svalbard), with an area of 850.2 square kilometres (328.3 sq mi).
         1. "Sortland" regional centre of "Vesterålen" and also known as the Blue City. Sjøhus Senteret, the seaside cabin hotel at Sortland In the heart of the world’s most beautiful archipelago you have the opportunity to experience the real culture of the north Norway coast. Stay in comfortable, warm cabins overlooking the sea and our own marina. The Sjøstua restaurant boasts a panoramic view across the sea and serves an Arctic Menu based on local ingredients. The restaurant is recommended by the Professional Food and Drink Forum Guided sea fishing trip: with experienced local fishermen to the fishing areas which are also visited for the sea fishing festivals in "Vesterålen" - and where much more fish gets weighed in than at the world cod fishing championships in "Lofoten". Later you will be served your own catch in the restaurant. Boat hire. 15 foot boat with 30 hp motor. Wood fired hot tub on the seaside rocks. An exotic experience below the flaming northern lights or in a winter storm. Activities Killer whale safari in Vestfjorden. See killer whales hunting for herring Guided walk in central Sortland, the town with the blue houses "Ånstadblåheia" ski lift and alpine run Floodlit cross-country skiing Dog sledding with huskies across the white moorland on "Langøya" Sea rafting to Anda lighthouse. Get close to seals, sea eagles and other seabirds. Ice fishing in Gullesfjord Lihallen cultural centre and the well known painter Tove Hov Jacobsen
         2. "INGA-SÀMI-SIIDA" "http://www.inga-sami-siida.no" inviterer dere til å oppleve levende samisk kultur i Vesterålen! Inga Sámi Siida holder til i storslått natur på "Kvalsaukan" "http://www.inga-sami-siida.no/files/web_bilder/sortland.jpg" midt mellom havet og bratte fjell på Hinnøya, ca. 5 km fra Sortland. Besøk Inga Sámi Siida og bli kjent med den lokale samiske kulturen og reindriftsnæringa i Vesterålen-området. Dette er en helt unik opplevelse, som ikke har vært tilgjengelig for andre enn de som har tilhørighet til reindrifta, før nå! Som vertskap tar vi i mot våre gjester i tradisjonelle samiske klær fra dette området. Vi holder til i storslått natur, midt mellom med havet og bratte fjell,på Hinnøya, ca. 5 km fra Sortland. Her er dere velkomne til å besøke oss og delta i arbeidet med reinflokken. Vertskapet tar i mot dere i tradisjonelle samiske klær og gir dere først en introduksjon om samisk reindrift og hva som skal skje. På scooter blir dere tatt med til et reingjerde hvor dere blir med på fôring av ca. 100 reinsdyr. Dette er en spektakulær opplevelse hvor dere virkelig får utfordra egne grenser! Etterpå blir dere invitert inn i en av våre nybygde trelávvoer, der bålet varmer og dere får komme med spørsmål og høre historier om samisk kultur og reindrift. Her er det også muligheter for å få servering av tradisjonell samisk mat; for eksempel kokt kjøtt, margebein og buljong, eller vår smaksfulle reinkebab; laget av røkt reinkjøtt. Vi byr også på blodpannekaker, hjemmelaga blåbærmuffins og samiske klappakaker. Vi utfordrer dere til å delta på lassokasting, både på horn og etterpå på levende rein! Det er også muligheter for å få en tur på snøscooter. Vi selger samisk duodji:husflidsprodukter som votter med samisk mønster, smykker, punger, vesker og andre småting laget av skinn og tinntråd + annet samisk håndverk. Dere kan også få kjøpe horn, skinn og tørka kjøtt. I tillegg byr vi på en utstilling i en av lávvoene: samiske klær med tilbehør, gamle fotografier og bruksgjenstander. Det er muligheter for enkel overnatting i lávvo. Lávvoene kan også leies ut til private arrangementer. EKSKLUSIVT: Mai: Sommeropplevelser med besøk til reinens kalvingsland. Juni/juli: Fjellturer for å delta på kalvemerkingen. Adresse: Kvalsaukan 8400 SORTLAND Tlf: 761 25 123, 908 77 558 E-post: lailainga@hotmail.com
         3. "Stø" is a distinctive fishing village on the northern point of the island of "Langøya" . Stø offers daily whale, seal and seabird safaris. On rv. 820, new nature experiences await you.
         4. "Nyksund" The fishing village of Nyksund, on rv. 821, is a fascinating experience overlooking the open sea. From being hard hit by stagnation, depopulation and decay, this old fishing hamlet is continuously making a name for itself as a dynamic centre of art and cuisine. Here, you can stay in original quayside buildings and feel the atmosphere of former glory. Holmvik brygge offers accommodation in friendly surroundings in fabled Nyksund. We organise various winter activities including dog sledding with huskies and killer whale safaris. You can also come long-line fishing. Click onto ”Winter Tours” on our website.

         5. "Nykvåg"

            Just off Nykvåg you find the peculiar "Nykan" – round, steep mountainous islands that accommodate many species of seabirds. On the way to "Stokmarknes", you choose the road along the "Eidsfjord" . The economic boom caused by the fishery, led to, amongst other things, the establishment of the first Norwegian Coastal Voyage company, the Vesteraalens Dampskibsselskab.
      3. "Hadseløya"
         1. "Stokmarknes" At the Coastal Voyage Museum ( "Hurtigrutemuseet" ) in Stokmarknes you will find exhibitions and an AV show.
         2. "Hadsel"
         3. "Melbu" The small town of Melbu is known for its active cultural life and characterised by its modern fishing industry. There is a car ferry from Melbu to "Fiskebøl" in the "Lofoten" Islands. Your route now turns north again to "Sortland". On the way you can view the majestic "Møysalen" Mountain, the highest peak in the regions of "Lofoten" and "Vesterålen" (1,261 metres above sea level). Leaving "Sigerfjord" on the E10 along the "Gullesfjord" , you proceed to "Kanstad" and then to "Lødingen" , from where there is a ferry to "Bognes".
   2. "Hinnøya" "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinnøya" is largest coastal island in Norway (several of the islands in the Arctic Svalbard archipelago are larger) with an area of 2,204.7 square kilometres (851.2 sq mi). It has a population of 31,851 (2006). The western part of Hinnøya belongs to the district of "Vesterålen", and the southwestern tip to the district of "Lofoten". The major settlement is the city of "Harstad". Some villages scatter the island, among them "Borkenes", "Lødingen", "Sigerfjord" and "Sørvik". Geographically divided between the counties Troms ("Harstad" and "Kvæfjord" municipalities) and Nordland ("Andøy", Hadsel, "Lødingen", "Sortland", "Tjeldsund" and Vågan), Hinnøya is dissected by several fjords, and contains a mostly rugged and mountainous terrain. Especially the southern part, where the "Møysalen" National Park is located. The best agricultural area is in the northeast, in "Harstad" and "Kvæfjord" municipalities. Hinnøya is connected to the mainland by the "Tjeldsund" Bridge across Tjeldsundet. To the west it is connected to "Langøya" by the "Sortland" Bridge, and to the north to "Andøya" by the "Andøy" Bridge. "Lofast", connecting "Lofoten" to the mainland without any ferry crossings, was officially opened on December 1, 2007. The road is designated as the E10 and goes very close to "Møysalen" National Park. In the northwestern part in "Sortland" and "Andøy" is "Forfjord" nature reserve.

      1. "Forfjorddalen"

         Forfjord nature reserve, a valley with forests, bogs and the oldest pine tree in Norway (700 years old, Forfjorddalen). Visit the westernmost offshoot of the vast Siberian Taiga, treasure the sight of Norway’s oldest pine tree and try a guided owl safari in "Forfjorddalen" .
      2. "Kvæfjord" is a particularly beautiful area on the island of "Hinnøya", which shows the contrasts of Northern Norway.
      3. "Sigerfjord"
      4. "Møysalen" The southern part of Hinnøya, where the Møysalen National Park is located, contains a mostly rugged and mountainous terrain, including the highest mountain on the island, Møysalen, with its 1,262 metres (4,140 ft) above sea level.
      5. "Borkenes"
      6. "Meløyvær" It is also possible to hire a cycle and ride across the bridge from "Krøttøy" to Meløyvær. Meløyvær has only 10 - 12 permanent residents, but this was a thriving settlement when mining operations were in full swing in the early part of the twentieth century. At that time there was a school, shop and post office here.
      7. "Krøttøy" There is a daily connection to the island of "Krøttøy" with the express boat MS Vågsfjord. This is a pleasant 25-minute voyage departing from downtown "Harstad". "Krøttøy" was part of the realm of Tore Hund and you will discover many ancient Viking monuments. The island is lush and has a rich diversity of plant, animal and birdlife. From the top of the island, you can enjoy a breathtaking 360 degree panorama. You can get a quick overview of all the prime fishing spots, why not try your fishing luck either from land or hire a fishing boat?. Many fishermen have landed big fish here. Round trip in the archipelago by catamaran Take a round trip with the express boat MS Vågsfjord, which connects "Harstad" with the islands beyond the town. The catamaran calls at "Kjøtta", "Sandsøy", "Bjarkøy" and "Senja". During the summer months, it enters the Sundsvollsund Sound, where the main attraction is a bird cliff where almost 10,000 kittiwakes nest each year. Tickets are sold onboard the boat. The islands have many white sandy beaches and fine bathing spots. During winter, the light on "Krøttøy" is fascinating and the northern lights activity is particularly strong, in part because there is virtually no artificial light here. This makes the island a perfect spot to study this natural phenomenon. For information about activities and accommodation on "Krøttøy", please contact Valhall.
      8. "Bjarkøy" "https://www.bjarkoy.kommune.no/tourist_information/tourist_info_en" "http://www.megalithic.co.uk/article.php?sid=18054" You will experience an idyllic archipelago here, untouched coastal nature and rich farmland or you can take a historic walk. It is also recommend to hike over the mountain, which runs across the entire island. The municipality of Bjarkøy is located just outside Harstad in Northern Norway. To get here you can either take the ferry from Harstad (Stornes) to Grytøy (Bjørnerå), and further from Grytøy (Fenes) to Bjarkøy or Sandsøy. It takes about one and a half-hour to get from Harstad to Bjarkøy, a bit less to Sandsøy. Another alternative is to take the expressboat from Harstad. The boat goes to Bjarkøy, Sandsøy and Krøttøy (and Senja). Traveltime by boat varies according to how many stops it has. For further information you may call TFDS (ferries and expressboat); (+47) 77 64 81 00 or visit www.tfds.no Information is also available at the touristinformation in Harstad (Destination Harstad). If you like to cycle, there are great possibilities for that in our municipality. The traffic is light and and therefore it is great to cycle along the roads on Grytøy, Bjarkøy, Sandsøy and Krøttøy/ Meløyvær. Also many of the trails and paths are possible to enjoy on two wheels. You can either go by bike from Harstad, take the ferry from Stornes to Bjørnerå and then cycle over Grytøya. From Fenes (Grytøya) you can take the ferry either to Sandsøy or Bjarkøy, or visit them both. Another alternative, if you do not want to use your bike all the way from Harstad, is to take the Expressboat from Harstad to Bjarkøy, Sandsøy or Krøttøy. This is a great alternative, and it gives you the chance to see the beautiful skerries that Bjarkøy municipality has to offer. There are only about 530 inhabitants in Bjarkøy, and that makes us one of the smallest municipalities in Norway. The municipality consists of 365 islands, and all of them are varied and special in its own way. The nature varies from great mountains to hills, woods and bare rock faces. In the summer you can enjoy one of the beautiful beaches out here, you can even find one where you can be all by yourself. Bjarkøy is known for its viking history. The Viking Chieftain Tore Hund and his family had their seat at Bjarkøy. This was the most powerful family in Northern Norway during the Viking Age. Remainders from the Iron and Viking Age have been found several places.
         
         Food/Accommodation: Bjarkøy Gjestekro: Call; (+47) 77 090 190 Serves good food, and you will definitely not leave hungry. Serves as restaurant, cafe and pub. Accommodation; rooms and cabins. Located at Bjarkøy, call for information on opening hours etc. Krambua, Bjarkøy Call: (+47) 41 16 32 38 This is a popular cafe that serves lokal made light meals and delicious milkshakes, among other things. Camping/cabins: Leirvåg boathire and cabins: Call; (+47) 77 09 02 77 Bjarkøy Camping: For more information call; 77 090 189 Located in Leirvåg at Bjarkøy. The surroundings are beautiful, and there are many small beaches in the area. Camping for tents or caravans. Servicebuilding with shower, toilets, kitchen and electricity. Valhall - is a Hotel Resort and an Adventure Centre located on the island Krøttøy. Call: (+47) 77 09 0000 Sights:
         1. At Bjarkøy:
            1. Bjarkøya Centre, the chieftain's farm This site contains a settlement from the time of the great migration to later iron age and early middle ages. The island has a large number of ancient sites, I have divided them into two groups to make them easyer to separate. The Island has a very important place in the nordic sagas, expecially in the Heimskringla, the saga of the kings. It tells us about The Island as a centre of power and also about several cheiftains from this place. The central site, and the chieftain's farm consists of a village from the Time of the great migration. It is the same type of structures as on Vollmoen and Bø on Andøya. It was originally the remains of 12 houses in two semi-circles forming a complete ring with two openings in the ends and one "courtyard" in the middle. This site has sadly been plowed away and destroyed in the 60's. It also has two other building structures from the iron age, remains of one large boat house (about 25 metres long), one barrow cemetary that consists of 5 larger mounds and several smaller cairns on a plateau under the mountain overlooking the Islands south-east side and one standing stone (about 1.30m tall, and a long and slender form). There were several more standing stones on this Island, but sadly they have been lost or removed in earlier times. The Bjarkøya Island is as said before one of the most important political places in iron age history, and is well worth a visit. The northernmost site, at Bjarkøy, had sixteen houses and was the largest of the northern courtyard sites. Small mounds and charcoal pits were scattered in the proximity of the site. None included human bones, but animal bones were found fairly often. Johansen & Søbstad assume that they have been cooking pits. In the centre of the open court a so-called court-mound had been recorded, but had been removed prior to the excavation.
               1. A plundering crater in another large barrow mound.
               2. A crater on top of a larger burial mound from the same barrow cemetery. The barrow was too overgrown to be able to photograph.
               3. A low but pretty round barrow from a small cemetery on top of a ridge over the settlement.
               4. A large boat house from the Iron age. It is hard to see the depression mark because of the growth, but it has originally been about 30-35 meters long and housed a ship of conciderable size.
               5. A stone standing very close to a private fence and a garden called "the arrow". It is about 1.50m tall and slender, but the ground have given way and the stone will soon fall over.
            2. "Sundsvollsundet" The "nestcliff" in Sundsvollsundet is an amazing sight from the end of February to mid august, when about 10 000 birds nest here.
            3. "Fotefar mot Nord" "Fotefar mot Nord" – a culturetrail: This is a culturetrail that consist of historical sites. Groups may contact the below number to hear if a guide is available. You will go past graves from the Vikingage, old bauta-stones, an old wooden church, and other places where one has found traces from the past. For further information call (+47) 77 01 83 80 or visit www.tdm.no You can also visit http://troms.kulturnett.no/fotefar/
            4. "Ole Ottesastua" Bjarkøys country-museum: This is a small house from aprox. 1870. The house has been restored into what it could have looked like. For information on opening hours etc. Call (+47) 77 01 83 80 or see www.tdm.no.
            5. Bjarkøy Church: A beautiful wooden church from 1765. The church was build at Sandsøy, but was moved to Bjarkøy in 1886. Some of the old interior is still in the church, while some of it was returned to Sandsøy.
            6. "Austnesmarka" The Battery; This is a German coastalfort build in 1941, during The Second World War. Quite a few of the old bunkers and even a canon is still there. Here you can combine history and nature, because there are many paths in-between the different bunkers. Your trip to the Battery starts at the parking lot by the town hall in Nergårdshamn. From there you take to the right onto the gravel road, follow this for about 300 metres and then you will see the path up to the battery on your right. The paths here are connected to marked trails in Austnesmarka.
            7. The Railway: From 1904-1909 there was iron mines at Bjarkøy. It is still possible to walk along the old railwaytrack, even though the tracks are gone. One can actually look into the old mines, but beware that the mines are not secured. If you go inside it’s at your own risk. The remains of an old engine are still here. To walk along the old tracks is a great walk that suits everybody, both adults and children.
         2. At Sandsøy:
            1. Sandsøy Church: Wooden Church from 1888. Was build after the original church was moved to Bjarkøy. Some of the original interior has been moved back to Sandsøy. Open after appointment. Call 77 04 85 00.
            2. "Sommerro" – a special place: A catholic priest lived here around year 1900. There are no buildings left, but the locals have made benches here and marked the silhouettes of the old buildings. There is also an altar and a Madonna figure here. There is a sign from the main road that shows direction to Sommarro.
            3. "Hallevika" The graves in Hallevika: You can walk from Sommerro to Hallevika. Maps are available for sale. The graves are from the Iron Age (aprox. 600-800 a.c.) The graves are easy to see, and one of them is open.
         3. Hiking: There are many great places to go hiking on our fantastic islands. There are several marked trails on Grytøy, Sandsøy and Bjarkøy. Many of them are marked with different colours, according to level of difficulty. Maps are available for sale (Bjarkøy and Sandsøy) at the ferry. Also there are many unmarked trails, but most of them are easy to follow. Ask for more information at (+47) 77 048 500, Grytøy Gjestestue or Bjarkøy Gjestekro. The locals are also helpful if you have questions about trails and paths in the area.
         4. Fishing/ Boats: Boats are available at: Grytøy Gjestestue; (+47) 77 090 764 Leirvåg Boathire; (+47) 77 090 277
      9. "Helløya" Island hopping by cycle and boat You can also go on deep-sea rafting trips or archipelago safaris in rigid inflatable boats (RIBs). You can see historic settlements on islets where the fjord meets the open sea or experience the huge kittiwake cliff on the island of Helløya, which is one of "Krøttøy"'s neighbouring islands.
      10. "Sandsøy"
      11. "Kjøtta"
      12. "Grytøya" island Here you will find demanding hiking trails in undulating terrain, which is best suited for those wanting to wear themselves out. Beautiful mountains offering views of the "end of the world". Cyclists should explore the archipelago "Grytøy" – "Bjarkøy" – "Krøttøy". This is a family-friendly and easy cycling route on roads with little traffic. Compared to the outer coast, the "Harstad" region is well-sheltered from wind and weather, but the season is still variable. Before you set off on the actual "Harstad" - "Grytøy" - "Bjarkøy" route, you should visit to the "Trondenes" Heritage Centre. This is the place to learn about the history of Tore Hund and other Vikings. En route from "Harstad" to Stornes, you will pass the historic "Røkenes" Farm, which has a restaurant, mini golf and a gallery. Soon after, you will arrive at the first ferry to transport you to the majestic island of "Grytøy". Here, you cycle in a landscape of high mountains and fertile pastures. After an exciting stage, you will reach the second ferry which offers a half hour voyage to the saga island of "Bjarkøy". The ferry also serves the island of "Sandsøy" if you would prefer to head there. Route: "Harstad"- "Grytøy"- "Bjarkøy" Distance: 30 kilometres Road standard: Good asphalt Traffic conditions: Little traffic Onward connections: To "Senja" / "Tromsø" /"Nordkapp" by express boat, ferry and "Hurtigruten" (The Norwegian Coastal Voyage)
      13. "Trondenes" On the "Trondenes" Peninsula, visitors can stroll through time, where a Viking chieftain Tore Hund from "Bjarkøy" killed Norway's Patron Saint, Saint Olav, in 1030. A nature and culture trail has been developed in the historical area on the "Trondenes" Peninsula. The thirteenth century "Trondenes" Church, the world's northernmost medieval stone church, stands on the site of one of Hålogaland's earliest and most important church centres in picturesque surroundings by the coast on the "Trondenes" Peninsula and has a number of art treasures and beautiful furniture and fixtures. Trondarnes Heritage Centre has exhibitions and multimedia that provide you with insight into Northern Norway's exciting history through unique archaeological objects, music, smells and sounds. You wander through the Northern Norwegian Viking Age and Middle Ages, up to World War II and today's urban community. The Adolf Guns are found close to "Harstad". The world's largest land-based guns, built by the German military power during World War II. The Adolf Guns stand today as the only completely restored fortifications in the world and thus have great historical value. The bunkers are set up for an historical tour with exhibitions depicting the history and planned use of the gun.
      14. "Harstad" "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Stories/Norway/North/Harstad/" Off the coast of "Harstad", you will discover a large archipelago full of islands. Catch a boat out to exciting accommodation, fish in the blue sea and sunbathe on white sandy beaches. The surrounding areas also offer exciting cabins, private accommodation, the world's northernmost horticulture school, old Sami settlements and boat hire. "Anna Rogde" The world's oldest schooner, Anna Rogde, built in 1868, offers various activities such as teambuilding, fishing and orca killer whale-safaris. Facing the sea, "Harstad" provides the perfect setting for the annual Festival of Northern Norway, a wide-ranging cultural festival and celebration. Mountain walks- Distance: approximately 15 kilometres there and back. Estimated time to the top: Four to five hours Suitable for: The physical fit. The last part to the top is a little demanding. Start and finish: Go south from "Harstad", past "Tjeldsund" Bridge and towards "Lødingen". Park at Sandtorg sportsground (signposted in Årbogen). Necessary equipment: None, but good shoes are recommended due to rocky parts at the end. Marked trail: No. Good path. Visible peak from starting point. Drinking water: Intermittent before the final ascent to the top. Route description: Follow path/road through the gate from the football pitch. Alternatively, you can follow the path on the west side of Årbogelva. Continue from the lake a short distance south to the ridge, where you will find a cabin. From here, follow the posts to the top. Follow the same route going back. If you descend along the road on the north side of the river, make sure that you continue straight on where the paths meet on the plain close to the sportsground. If you don’t, you will end up on the north side of the river and have to follow the road all the way down to the E-10 road and then head south and back up again to the sportsground. Further info/map: "Harstad" Tourist Office, tel + 47 77 01 89 89. Settlement in the "Harstad" district dates right back to the Stone Ages. "Bjarkøy" and "Trondenes" were power centres in the later stages of the Viking era and in medieval times, and even in those times this area was the region's largest settlement. The development of "Harstad" is attributed to its location and transport patterns throughout the ages. The sea was the old transport artery and the early steam ships had Sandtorg and "Trondenes" as ports of call. In 1844, "Trondenes" was replaced by Harstadhamn, which in turn was replaced in 1848 by Harstadsjøen. This was the first step towards Harstad becoming a town. In 2004, Harstad celebrated its centennial. The tourist information in "Harstad" is centrally located by the bus terminal. Visiting address: Rikard Kaarbøsgate 11 Postal address: PO Box 654, 9486 "Harstad" Phone: +47 77 01 89 89 Fax: +47 77 01 89 80 Email: post@destinationharstad.no Opening hours: June 15 – August 16: 10 am – 6 pm (daily) August 17 – June 14: 8 am – 3:30 pm (weekdays only) Fantastic urban panoramas can be found at "Utsikten" in "Harstad". "Harstad" is located on Norway's biggest island "Hinnøya", next to "Vesterålen" and "Lofoten" to the west, "Narvik" to the east and "Tromsø" to the north. Distances from "Harstad" to: "Alta": 566 kilometres "Andenes": 176 kilometres "Bodø": 326 kilometres "Evenes": 44 kilometres "Finnsnes": 124 kilometres Kiruna: 305 kilometres "Narvik": 130 kilometres "Nordkapp": 803 kilometres Oslo: 1,417 kilometres Polarsirkelen: 365 kilometres "Sortland": 79 kilometres Troms: 305 kilometres "Å" i "Lofoten": 291 kilometres Aeroplane There are up to six daily flights to/from Oslo Airport Gardermoen to/from "Harstad"/"Narvik" Airport "Evenes", with onward connections. Flight time from "Harstad"/"Narvik" Airport "Evenes" to Oslo is 90 minutes. Airlines: SAS and Norwegian. Widerøe has several daily flights to/from "Bodø" and "Tromsø". The drive to/from "Harstad" town centre to/from the airport takes 40 minutes. "Lofast" – the new "Lofoten" Mainland Connection December 2007 marked the opening of the new mainland connection with "Lofoten", known as "Lofast". This new road connection enables direct road travel between "Harstad" and the island kingdom of "Lofoten" without requiring ferries. The driving time between "Harstad" and "Svolvær" in "Lofoten" has been cut to just 2 hours and 40 minutes. This enables visitors to "Harstad" to make exciting day trips to the outermost parts of the "Lofoten" Islands. You should also take a trip around "Kvæfjord" Municipality and the ferry connection between Flesnes and Refsnes to travel to or from "Lofoten". Traditional svele (thick pancakes) are served on the ferry, and this route is 30 kilometres shorter than travelling via "Lødingen". "Hurtigruten" (The Norwegian Coastal Voyage) The north- and southbound "Hurtigruten" ships meet daily in "Harstad" between 6:45 am and 8 am. It is a beautiful sight when both ships are docked side by side in downtown "Harstad". For day-trips with "Hurtigruten" from "Harstad", you are recommend to take the journey to "Svolvær" ("Lofoten") and "Sortland" ("Vesterålen"). From "Svolvær", you may return to "Harstad" on the northbound "Hurtigruten" ship at night or return to "Harstad" by bus or rental car. Express boat "Harstad" has excellent express boat connections with "Tromsø" (2 hours and 30 minutes away) and to the island kingdom outside "Harstad" - "Bjarkøy" and "Senja". The express boats dock at the quay in downtown "Harstad" and are an extremely comfortable and scenic mode of transport. Express boat "Harstad" - Flakstadvåg - "Skrolsvik" - "Krøttøy" - "Bjarkøy" - "Sandsøy" - "Kjøtta" "Harstad" - Engenes - Brøstadbotn - "Finnsnes" - "Tromsø" Ferries The ferries in the "Harstad" region are operated by Torghatten Nord. "Harstad" - "Sørrollnes" "Andenes" - "Gryllefjord" "Harstad" - "Grytøy" "Grytøy" - "Sandsøy" - "Bjarkøy" "Bognes" - SKarberget -"Lødingen" "Svolvær" - Skutvik "Melbu" - "Fiskebøl" Refsnes - Flesnes Train There are two daily train departures between Oslo and "Fauske" in Nordland, with onward travel to "Harstad" by connecting bus. There is also a train connection between "Narvik" and Kiruna – Luleå in Sweden. For more information, please contact the Norwegian State Railways (NSB). Car rental – in downtown "Harstad" and at the airport Hertz Europcar
          1. "Grottebadet" Grottebadet, a spectacular indoor water park located in caves under the town, features everything from pools and jucuzzi to sauna and a beach café.
          2. "Folkeparken" The nature of "Harstad" is varied and marked by fjords and mountains. In the surrounding areas, you will find mountains ideal for short hikes, as well as more challenging ones. The silence and lack of crowds will surprise and offer fantastic peace and tranquillity. Hike to different peaks such "Hinnsteinen", "Sætertind", "Musvannet", "Gangsåstoppen", "Stongheia" and "Keipen". In Folkeparken, you will find a network of marked trails and roads that enable you to walk in the mountains above "Harstad" or in varied terrain in the forest. You will also discover beautiful forest lakes. The best view of the city can be enjoyed from "Gangsåstoppen", which is a 15 - 20-minute walk in relatively good terrain. Here, there are benches and a telescope.
          3. "Aunfjellet" Mountain is a 15-minute drive from "Harstad" and is an excellent area for hiking. You quickly reach the high mountains and you can look out over the sea from steep cliffs.
          4. "Røkenes" Historic trading posts such as Røkenes Farm and Sandtorgholmen Hotel take guests back in time with their centuries old buildings, fantastic culinary experiences and genuine hospitality.
      15. "Sørvik"
      16. "Tjeldsund"
      17. Kui Valenist edasi sõita kuni "Lødingen" "Storfjell"ini siis sealt algab ka hästi mõnus jalgrada (sadama juurest u 2,5 kilti pikk ronida suurt ei pea/võrratu vaade Norra mandriosa mägedele).
      18. "Digermulen" kõrval olevalt "Arsteinen" mäelt näed "Digermulen"it ja teisele poole ka mandrile.
      19. "Arsteinen" mäelt – vaade suurepärane, näed "Digermulen"it ja teisele poole ka mandrile. Ronida soovitaks ikkagi "Digermulen"i/Valeni juures kuningate mäele. Ise ronisime siis kui laps oli 6ne. Peaks olema jõukohane. Rada algab külapoe juurest.
      20. "Lofast" Day trip by car to "Lofoten" - via "Lofast" Drive southwards from "Harstad" through the historic and beautiful Tjeldsundet Sound. Just north of "Lødingen", you drive westwards for a short while until you reach the "Lofast" Tourist Centre. Take a break here and enjoy the delicious home-cooked food, freshly brewed coffee and top class North Norwegian hospitality. After a rest, drive a further 18 kilometres until you reach "Lofast", "Lofoten"'s mainland connection. It goes through completely untouched and uninhabited nature with a mix of mountain and coastal scenery. Once you have crossed the Raftsundet Sound, you are on the island of "Austvåg"øya, one of the many islands that comprise the "Lofoten" group. From here, the road takes you to "Fiskebøl" and "Svolvær". On the return trip to "Harstad", you make take the alternative route northwards along the Gullesfjord, cross the fjord by ferry then drive via "Kvæfjord". A guided tour for groups along "Lofoten"'s mainland connection, "Lofast", is available year-round by prior booking. Contact "Harstad" Tourist Information Office for booking and more information.
   3. "Lofoten""/> Lofoten "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Stories/Norway/North/Lofoten/" "http://www.lofoten-info.no/history.htm" "Lofast" is "Lofoten"'s mainland connection. Once you have crossed the Raftsundet Sound, you are on the island of "Austvåg"øya, one of the many islands that comprise the "Lofoten" group. From here, the road takes you to "Fiskebøl" and "Svolvær". Like Pearls on a String From east to west, the islands of the Lofoten archipelago stretch out like pearls on a string: "Austvåg"øy, "Gimsøy", "Vestvågøy", "Flakstadøy" and "Moskenes"øy. The "Outer Coast" and the "Inner Coast" Geographically, we often distinguish between the "inner coast" and the "outer coast" of Lofoten. The outer coast faces the Norwegian Sea and the inner coast faces the Vestfjord, and is where most of the settlement can be found. The outer coast is more exposed to the heavy, wet sea mists and fog, and the fierce and raging storms. This is was probably what inspired district governor G.P. Blom to write the following in 1827: "As ugly as the eastern coast of Lofoten is, it is yet surpassed in sheer rawness by the western coast, where, moreover, the fierce northerly and north-westerly storms rage with a greater vehemence than on the east coast, which is protected by the tall mountains." The inner coast is characterised by calmer weather and rather warmer summer temperatures. Furthermore, the people there are spared from the horrid "good weather fog" that can come rolling in from the sea after a few warm, summer days. The sea fog covers the houses on the outer coast like a blanket, and temperatures drop instantly. In such cases we are glad that the inner coast is not too far away, because the sun may well be shining there, even from a cloudless sky. However, the outer coast does have its advantages, too. It is there that the landscape can be bathed in the Midnight Sun between about May 25 and July 17. And in August, the sun may be even more beautiful – setting in a pale violet sea, and leaving the sky in shades of colour that no painter can ever hope to imitate. Primeval Mountains and Barren, Rocky Ground Lofoten is comprised of the youngest and the oldest types of rock we know. The latter are so-called primeval rocks and are among the oldest in the world, being the remnants of a once enormous 3 billion year old plateau. The island of "Moskenes"øy is the only one of the Lofotens that can boast of being composed in part of this oldest, primeval ground. From the shore, these mountains tower up, steep and sheer, towards the sky. On top, however, they become gentle, undulating, and flat. The "younger" mountains have sharp peaks, sharp ridges and are often referred to as an "alpine landscape". The mountains of Lofoten are so high that scientists believe they were not covered by ice during the last Ice Age which took place about 18,000 – 20,000 years ago. But bear with us, Lofoten is more than just mountains and rocks. Combined Fishing and Farming The islands of "Austvåg"øy and "Gimsøy" have relatively good agricultural potential along their outer coasts, but these areas are, however, small in comparison to those on the island of "Vestvågøy", in the middle of Lofoten. This island comprises one of the most important agricultural areas in the county of Nordland. In the middle of the island there are wide, flat fields and many farms surrounded by high, protecting mountains. Subzero temperatures can be rather more discernible here in this "inland" region than out in the villages by the sea. Further to the west you will find the islands of "Flakstadøy" and "Moskenes"øy. There is less soil here, and farms become scarcer and smaller the further west you go. The islands seem to consist mainly of mountains and rocks. On the narrow expanse of coastline between the precipitous mountains and the open sea, settlers have bravely dug in. Having said this, the farming hamlets on the outer coast of "Flakstad" are luxuriant in comparison to "Moskenes". The borough of "Moskenes" languishes in last place in the table of agricultural statistics. And as we continue further out to "Værøy" and "Røst", the typical Lofoten pattern appears even clearer: "Man on board, wife on land" Out here, fish has always been the most important commodity, but way into this century the families of Lofoten were also dependent on having small farms, and on utilising what resources the land had to offer. In the mountain realm of Lofoten, even the landless classes could keep domestic animals by making use of the green and fertile, yet almost inaccessible mountainside hayfields. The local inhabitants climbed high up on the mountainsides to harvest fodder for their cows and sheep. Life was based on good fishing in combination with the keeping of domestic animals and the running of a small farm. The women were for the most part responsible for the home , the farm and the domestic animals. They took care of what we call subsistence economy, providing important income that is not revealed in any tax assessments or documents. The men took care of fishing, ensuring a flow of cash income to pay taxes and buy essential goods like flour, firewood, paraffin, sugar and tackle. Throughout the 1960’s and 70’s this type of combined fishing and farming died out and the small farms gradually disappeared. The men became full-time fishermen all-year-round, or got other jobs, and women began to seek employment outside the home. Today, only a few families stick to the traditional combination of fishing and farming, but the small farm buildings still remain a typical part of the Lofoten landscape. Moreover, it would seem that a number of younger families are to some extent bringing back the traditional combination of fishing and farming. In the 1990’s, the local authorities on the island of "Røst", encourage people to keep sheep – and they are in fact succeeding. In 1994, lamb from Lofoten was voted the best in the world, perhaps this too has encouraged others to start keeping sheep? Back to the top of the page. "The Four Flows" Lofoten protrudes from the mainland and into the sea like an outstretched arm. The location of the islands catches the eye, and they are therefore displayed on many old and ancient maps. Such an armlike position catches indeed most things, particularly gale force winds, storms and rain ..., but the most important thing this arm embraces is the invisible, life-giving Gulf Stream. The Gulf Stream strokes intimately past the Lofoten Islands, creating mild winters, both at sea and on land. Without the Gulf Stream, Lofoten, with its northerly location, would become a cold and desolate place. It would be too cold for people to live on the islands, the Norwegian Arctic cod would not follow the flow to the archipelago, visiting fishermen would not come from north and south, and the thousand-year-old flow of fish products to the world beyond could never have happened. Tradition of Openness Lofoten – an all-embracing arm, an inverted fjord? There is a long-standing tradition of openness here, openness when receiving visitors, openness towards news from afar. Experienced genealogists say that old censuses from Lofoten make exciting reading because, over the past couple of hundred years, such a surprisingly large amount of the population has moved here from other regions. People came here from the north and the south, from fjords and valleys – and also from other countries. Lofoten has received visiting fishermen, artists, peddlers and adventurers – and Lofoteners have set out on journeys, too, taking their fish with them. All this has provided new contacts and new impulses. For the most part, all this activity and flow of people was typical of the winter months. Today, the major flow of visitors comes during the summer season, constituting a relatively new and exciting chapter in the history of Lofoten. The main activity, however, still takes place during the winter, when the cod arrive. The Amazing Journey of the Cod Lofoten’s be all or end all is inextricably linked to the world’s greatest cod harvest, which takes place from January to April. The Vestfjord, between the islands and the mainland, has been called the world’s biggest maternity ward. It is here the Norwegian Arctic cod come to spawn during the winter. Until the age of 7 or 8, they frolic in the Barents Sea before reaching sexual maturity, whereupon they set off on a most amazing journey back to their place of birth. The journey begins in November-December. The cod steal past Finnmark and Troms, some of them being caught here and there, finally reaching Lofoten in enormous numbers in January, after a journey of some 800 kilometres. Lofoten Draws them Why do the cod migrate to the same area every year? Perhaps we might say that the cod has a kind of "instinct" leading it to its goal? Scientists say that this is still one of Nature’s mysteries, but they do know that a number of favourable conditions in Lofoten attract the cod: Perfect spawning temperatures of 4-6 degrees in the sea, correct salinity, suitable depth, appropriate currents and sufficient sustenance for the offspring (crawfish larvae and red copepod larvae). A 5 kilo female cod lays 2.5 million eggs, of which about 20 survive and develop into fish during the first year. Despite such great losses, the future of the species is thus safeguarded, and it is left to man to harvest the seas in a responsible and sustainable manner. Poet and clergyman, Petter Dass, expressed Nordland’s dependency on the fisheries. His words were written in the 1690’s, and they still apply: "Yea! The fish in the seas are our daily bread, Should we lose them, we will suffer and dread, Forced to utter our miserable sighs." Back to the top of the page. The Lofoten Fishery We wait for them, the fish and the fishermen, in January, every single year. Irrespective of occupation or business, in Lofoten, everyone is preoccupied with the winter fishery; with how things are going. This male-dominated occupation is observed with Argus-eyed vigilance by housewives, furniture salesmen, teachers and tax officers. They all know that the greatest cod fishery in the world, forms the basis of all human settlement in the Lofotens. Thousand Year Tradition From January to April the fishermen are always at their posts in Lofoten, ready and waiting. In about 1120, King Øystein built "rorbu" cabins in Lofoten, where the fishermen could live and work. This was almost certainly because of the many visiting fishermen that came to the fishing villages during the Winter Season. Consequently, even more came. In such a way, the total catch increased, and the King gained greater income and more control over the wealth that was landed. Today, the fishermen, and this "commercial fishery", are thus integral parts of a thousand year old tradition. The fishermen do as their forefathers did, they catch tasty cod, full of fatty liver and nutritious roes. The fish as a commodity is the same, the drying method is the same, but apart from this the methods used for fishing, production and sales have all changed. Stone Age finds show that the people here harvested the seas using tackle like stone sinkers and hooks made of horn and bone. Nets were also used, but only in shallow waters. The deep sea haul was taken with hook and line – handlines. This continued for thousands of years, until way into the Middle Ages. In the history of the Lofoten Fishery, the tackle in use has been the focus of much turbulence. Being innovative on the seas of Lofoten has been no easy task. The fishermen were traditionally very sceptical to the use of new types of gear, saying that "the old ones are good enough". But more important was probably the fear of having to make new, substantial investments in an uncertain trade. Most of them had enough debt to begin with ... Turbulence and Prohibition We know that longlines were used in the Vestfjord in 1533, but it was not until 1580 that they became commonplace. The handliners quickly became frustrated, complaining that longlines ruined the fishing for them. There were no regulations on fishing, and lawlessness reigned: no rules for when the day’s fishing should begin, and no rules determining what tackle could be used. No wonder people were in despair. They asked the King for help, and were heard. In 1644, King Christian IV banned longlining. Gillnets were introduced to cod fishing in about 1750, and there was no lack of protest at that either. Consequently, nets were banned for a brief period of time. Only handlines were to be used, but then there were new protests, and the ban had to be lifted. Indeed, neither making laws nor buying tackle were easy matters – you never knew what would be prohibited next winter. Should the winter season prove to be a bad one, then the new types of tackle were held to blame, and there was a great deal of confrontation in the fishing villages between handliners, longliners and gillnetters. Things went to and fro, bans were imposed and the same bans were lifted. In the 1770’s, both gillnets and the illegal longlines were in use. In 1786, both types of tackle were finally made legal, but conditions in the fishing villages were still a cause of great concern, with large numbers of strangers, few regulations, and a disturbingly high consumption of liquor and luxury commodities. The Lofoten Act –Improved Order at Sea In 1816, the Lofoten Act – Lofotloven – was passed. This act regulated the time when fishing could begin in the morning, and divided the seas off the shore of each fishing village into permanent areas for longlining and gillnetting. The landlords or publicans of each fishing village were made inspectors, making sure that everyone conformed to the new regulations. So now peace was finally supposed to reign in the fishing villages, since the fishermen were obliged to stick to their own fishing village, rent "rorbu" cabins there, and decide in advance what type of tackle they would be using. There was, however, great dissatisfaction with these arrangements. The law was too rigid, it was not adapted to the unpredictable ways of the fishery. The fish did not distribute themselves evenly among the fishing villages, sometimes they were here, sometimes there. Being bound to one part of Lofoten where there were no fish was quite intolerable when people in other areas were hauling in the catch. Furthermore, the landlords, having attained considerable authority, had become landowners – like the British squires – and acted like minor sheriffs in each individual fishing village, running things as they pleased. Dissatisfaction was rife, both among the fishermen, the general public, and among the official class. Free Waters – Free Fishing In 1857 the strict regulations were finally lifted. An important figure in the implementation of this was government official Ketil Motzfeldt. The basic principles for fishing now became: free waters, free fishing, state inspection. The landlords, or squires, were removed from their office as inspectors, and the fishermen were given more influence and freedom – at least on paper. In reality, many fishermen were still tied to their fishing villages. The squires had lent them money to outfit their boats, and had allowed them credit when times were hard. The squires knew that the fishermen would be forced to turn to them, even though they offered poor prices for their fish. Those who were in debt had simply no choice. The freedom to set tackle wherever the fishermen pleased led once again to unrest and disturbance. Nets and longlines were often set too close, and were ruined. Safety and Minimum Prices With the advent of the motor boat, work at sea became both easier and safer. It was easier to follow the fish and it was easier to go where the best prices were paid. The year 1938 is very important in the history of the Norwegian fisheries: it was then that the Raw Fish Act came into force, ensuring the fishermen a fixed price for their fish. From now on, the fish buyers could no longer determine the value of the catch, this was left instead to the fishermen’s own organisation, the Raw Fish Sales Association. The fishermen were secured a minimum price and could once again hold their heads high. Up until the Second World War, fish caught in Lofoten was either sold to the squire, or to buyer boats anchored up in the harbour. After the war, the buyer boats disappeared, but even so, the squires were no longer the only buyers – others had appeared on the scene. The 1950’s and 60’s were tough times for the old, well-established squire-owned businesses; they went bankrupt, one after the other. For the fishing village communities, this transition meant uncertain times – but also opened up new opportunities. The Seas of Lofoten Today Today, the seas of Lofoten are divided up into longline, gillnet and Danish seine areas during the winter fishery and it is the fishermen themselves who determine the divisions. The boats must remain strictly in their own areas. The handliners on the other hand, can fish wherever they please. Nets and longlines catch the most fish, but the handliners dominate in numbers. However, according to the fisheries inspectorate in Svolvær, the tendency is clear: Danish seiners are increasing year by year. The Danish seiners use a small trawl net, like a large sack, that is tightened around the fish. Many fishermen criticise the Danish seine, saying that it is worse for the fish resources than the purse seines that purged the seas in the 1950’s, before they were banned. Unrest and animosity between the users of the various types of fishing gear still occur, and the fishery inspectors of Lofoten have to patrol the waters off Lofoten throughout the season, to make sure that the borders between the different types of gear are observed. Crisis and Optimism Towards the end of the 1980’s, some local communities experienced a crisis after the Lofoten fishery had provided poor yields for a number of consecutive years. During the winter of 1995, however, things were once again looking up – the number of fishermen taking part was on the increase and the total catch was once again at an acceptable level. The fish kept to the more distant banks, though, and those who made money were the larger gillnetters and Danish seiners. The winter fishery was a disappointment for the smaller handliners, both in volume and income. The Lofoten Fishery is culture and craftsmanship based on strong, long-standing and proud traditions. The Lofoten Fishery is competitiveness coupled with team work. It is long working days and worn out workers. It is hours spent at the most exhilarating, most dangerous and most beautiful place of work imaginable. It is elation at a major haul and sorrow over losses, purged seas and the fight for resources.
      • "Harstad" /"Narvik" Airport "Evenes"
        There are daily flights all year between Oslo Airport Gardermoen and "Harstad" /"Narvik" Airport "Evenes". Flight time is approximately one hour and thirty minutes. For timetables and booking, please contact SAS and Norwegian. By train you can travel between Stockholm/Göteborg and "Narvik". The route is scheduled daily all year. For timetables and booking, please contact Connex.
      • Between "Narvik" and "Lofoten"
        LOFAST is a boat-free connection between the mainland and "Lofoten". The road opened December 1, 2007. The new travelling time between "Evenes" and "Svolvær" is now less than 2.5 hours by car. There are public buses every day between "Narvik" (by "Evenes") and "Lofoten". There are public buses every day between "Narvik" (via "Evenes") and "Svolvær", and connections further around in "Lofoten". Departure from "Narvik" at 9:20 am, arrival in "Svolvær" at 1:35 pm. Departure from "Narvik" 4:15 pm, arrival in "Svolvær" at 9:55 pm. Departure from "Svolvær" at 9:45 am, arrival in "Narvik" at 3:15 pm. Departure from "Svolvær" at 3 pm, arrival in "Narvik" at 7:15 pm. (Timetable subject to change.) You can also take the express passenger boat between "Narvik" (via "Evenes") and Skrova/"Svolvær".
      • To "Bodø"
        There are daily flights all year between Oslo Airport Gardermoen and "Bodø" Airport. Flight time is approximately one hour and thirty minutes. For timetables and booking, please contact SAS and Norwegian. By train you can travel between Oslo, Trondheim, "Fauske" and "Bodø". For timetables and booking, please contact the Norwegian State Railways (NSB).
      • Between "Bodø" and "Lofoten"
        There are daily flights between "Bodø" and "Lofoten" all year. The flying time is is between 20 and 30 minutes. Between "Bodø" and "Røst" you fly with Kato Air. Between "Bodø" and "Værøy" you fly with helicopter. Between "Bodø" and "Leknes", and "Bodø" and "Svolvær" you fly with Widerøe. Public buses are scheduled daily all year between "Bodø" (via "Fauske") and "Svolvær", and have connections further around in "Lofoten". If you drive, you can take the car ferry from "Bodø" across to "Moskenes", "Værøy" or "Røst". Or you can drive further north of "Bodø", to Skutvik, and take the car ferry Torghatten Nord (phone: +47 90 62 07 00) across to Skrova or "Svolvær". Express passenger boats are scheduled daily all year around between "Bodø" and Skrova/"Svolvær".
      • "Hurtigruten" (The Norwegian Coastal Voyage)
        In "Lofoten", "Hurtigruten" stops at "Stamsund" and "Svolvær" every day both by the north-bound and the south-bound routes. In summer you also can visit Raftsundet and Trollfjorden by travelling with "Hurtigruten" between "Stokmarknes" and "Svolvær"
      • Car rental/charter
        A number of different means of transport are available to you, whether you are travelling alone or in a group. Rent a car, touring coach, boat, catamaran, taxi, maxi taxi, helicopter or aeroplane. When you are in "Lofoten" When you are in "Lofoten" you can easily travel around by using the public buses. Enjoy beautiful "Reinefjorden" by using the local passenger boat from "Reine" . In the summer season you can enjoy "Lofoten" by boat between "Ballstad" and "Reine". Running along the traditional, coastal transportation routes, this boat shuttle service gives you access to a unique and scenic view of "Lofoten". This is also a nice form of transport for those who do not wish to cycle through the "Nappstraum" tunnel (below sea level). The small express passenger boat between Holandshamn and "Svolvær" is perfect in combination with cycling in Raftsundet. The boat has departures on Wednesdays only, from Holandshamn in the morning and from "Svolvær" in the afternoon. Outside the summer season the boat also calls Skrova. If you want to use this boat, you must make a reservation in advance. In summer you also can visit Raftsundet and Trollfjorden by joining one of the scheduled boat trips from "Svolvær". South in Raftsundet you find the beautiful island of StoreMolla which is perfect for cycling and hiking. Take the car ferry between "Digermulen" and Finnvik. North in Raftsundet you can take the car ferry between Hanøy and Kaljord. Or you can take the ferry between "Fiskebøl" and "Melbu". You can visit the island of Skrova by taking the express passenger boats between "Svolvær" and "Bodø" or "Narvik", but also the car ferry between "Svolvær" and Skutvik. You can visit the islands of "Værøy" and "Røst" by taking the car ferry from "Moskenes" or "Bodø".
      • The "Artscape Nordland" in "Lofoten" The underlying idea of this project is that a work of art, by its presence creates a place of its own. The sculpture also visualizes its surroundings, thus giving the place a new dimension. Artscape Nordland has also given rise to a wide ranging and important debate on contemporary art in the region.
      • "Raftsundet" Boat trips in "Lofoten" Enjoy the "Reinefjord" by using the local passenger boat from "Reine". In summer a perfect combination is a walk from Vindstad beside the "Reinefjord" to the white sandy beach called Bunesstranda. This walk takes approximately one hour each way and is very suitable for families. Bring a lunch box and enjoy it on the beach. Then you take the boat back to "Reine" in the afternoon. Or you can take a one-hour round trip. The small express passenger boat between Holandshamn and "Svolvær" is perfect in combination with cycling in Raftsundet. The boat has departures on Wednesdays only, from Holandshamn in the morning and from "Svolvær" in the afternoon. Outside the summer season the boat also calls Skrova. If you want to use this boat, you must make a reservation in advance. In summer you can also visit Raftsundet and Trollfjorden by travelling with "Hurtigruten" (The Norwegian Coastal Voyage) between "Stokmarknes" and "Svolvær", or by joining one of the scheduled boat trips from "Svolvær".
      • "rorbu" Fishermen's cabins ("rorbuer") Along the coast of "Lofoten" you will find cosy fishermen’s cabins. These cabins originally provided simple overnight accommodation for fishermen. Today they are available in all categories, from low to very high standard. Originally built as accommodation for visiting fishermen during the fisheries of "Lofoten", fishermen's cabins, or "rorbuer" as they are called in Norwegian, are today immensely popular both amongst Norwegian and foreign holidaymakers. You are advised to book well in advance, especially if you are coming to Norway in July and August. Go fishing Spending your holiday at a "rorbu" gives you the experience of staying in quaint little fishing towns and villages. There are plenty of opportunities to go fishing - either on your own or as part of a crew on board the local fishing boat. Most fishermen's cabins serve as self-service accommodation with a living room and kitchen in one, a bathroom with shower, and at least one bedroom. A lot of the cabins have extra isolation, enabling them to offer year-round accommodation. Standards and sizes vary a great deal, as some fishermen's cabins are very old and some brand new. If you are prepared to pay a little extra you can get a "rorbu" with all the mod cons, even an outside hot tub. Prices A two-bedroom "rorbu" costs from NOK 600 per night. At most places you pay per cabin, not per person. Most often you must pay extra for bed clothes and towels. Accommodation in "Lofoten" is available at hotels, camp sites, youth hostels, cabins, quayside buildings ("sjøhus"), guesthouses, bed & breakfasts and various other types of rooms and apartments.
      • "sjøhus" Qayside buildings ("sjøhus") In the fishing villages you will find large buildings originally designed to accommodate the landing of the fishermen's catch. These wharf buildings are often two to four storeys high and also include room for lodgings. Since many of these lodgings have been used by fishermen, they are also often referred to as fishermen's cabins ("rorbuer"). In order to distinguish this type of accommodation from the traditional, fishermen's cabins, the term "sjøhus" (sea house) is often used. In some of these "sjøhus", guests may share a number of facilities such as kitchen, bathroom and living room.
      1. "Austvågøy" The mountains become more alpine again on the island of Austvågøy. The road E10 leads us towards "Svolvær" and "Kabelvåg". "Henningsvær" is a lively community both in summer, and in winter during the "Lofoten" fishery.
         1. "Fiskebøl" "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Theme/What-to-do/Tour-suggestions/Follow-a-National-Tourist-Route/Lofoten-National-Tourist-Route/" "Lofoten" National Tourist Route Discover the beauty of the "Lofoten" Islands, anchored above the Arctic Circle, by driving from Fiskebøl to "Å". Road: E10 between Fiskebøl and "Å" Length: 166 kilometres This national tourist route is 166 kilometres long and takes you through "Lofoten"’s fantastic scenery - majestic mountains, green meadows, chalky white beaches, wooden fishing boats and rust-red fishermen’s cabins. The main tourist islands, "Austvåg"øy, "Vestvågøy", "Flakstadøy" and "Moskenes", appeal to writers and artists as well as outdoor enthusiasts. Climbing, hiking, extreme skiing, riding, golfing, kayaking, biking, sea rafting and fishing are highly popular activities. One of the world’s biggest sea eagle colonies is found here. On "Lofoten"’s southernmost islands you can see enormous bird rocks, swarming with hundreds of thousands of puffins, cormorants, guillemots and eagles. Seals, killer whales and whales are regularly spotted in the seas. For anyone with Viking ancestry a visit to the Viking museum at "Borg" is a must. In summer the midnight sun shines out over the archipelago. Winter is the time of the famous "Lofoten" fishery, which is still vital to the population of "Lofoten".
         2. "Laukvik"
         3. "Svolvær" Svolvær - "Laukvik" - "Digermulen" The Kaiser Route, which is named after German "Lofoten" enthusiast, Kaiser Wilhelm II, starts in Svolvær. The nature is wild and majestic, and this is the realm of the white-tailed sea eagle. Svolvær is the administrative centre of "Lofoten" and is home to many artists, as well as being one of the country's main fishing ports. Svolvær has many art galleries, an ice sculpture exhibition and a war memorial museum with an extensive collection of World War II uniforms. Svolvær, the capital of "Lofoten", is a bright and busy town. The twin peaks of the "Svolværgeita" are the town’s trademark, posing a challenge to climbers to jump from one horn to the other. Do not miss a trip on the spectacular "Trollfjord" . There are several daily trips there during the summer.
         4. "Kabelvåg" In addition to Kabelvåg’s charming wooden architecture, you will find Gallery Espolin, the "Lofoten" Museum and the "Lofoten" Aquarium in historical "Storvågan" , one kilometre from the town centre.
         5. "Henningsvær" "http://www.world66.com/europe/norway/lofotenislands/henningsvr" With the mountain at its back and otherwise surrounded by the sea, Henningsvær was a natural hub of activity during the "Lofoten" Winter Fishery. In the 1800s, the island community prospered, and Henningsvær became one of the most prominent fishing villages in "Lofoten". Unlike many other fishing villages, the population of Henningsvær has remained stable in recent years, and there are still over 500 people living there. The islands of Henningsvær were not connected to the rest of "Lofoten" by bridges until 1981, a fact that probably helped save the community from the contemporary style of architecture, that otherwise left its mark on just about all other Norwegian towns and villages in the 1960s and 70s.
      2. "Gimsøy" Courtyard Site
      3. "Vestvågøy" Motorists reach the biggest of the "Lofoten" Islands, Vestvågøy, via the 1,780 m long underwater "Nappstraum" Tunnel. "Leknes" is the island’s municipal centre. "Eggum" and "Unstad" "Borga", built in stone during World War II, was one of the first German radar stations in Northern Europe. On the eastern coast of "Vestvågøy" you find villages like "Ballstad" with its picturesque settlement, together with "Mortsund" and "Stamsund". On the western coast we find "Utakleiv", "Unstad" and "Eggum" with its magnificent midnight sun panorama.
         1. "Borg" "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Theme/What-to-do/Attractions/Lofotr-Viking-Museum-at-Borg-in-Lofoten/" "http://www.lofotr.no/Engelsk/en_index.html" Lofotr Viking Museum At "Borg", archaeologists have discovered the largest house ever found from this era. It is the house of one of the most powerful chieftains in Northern Norway. The building is 83 meters long and has been reconstructed as a living museum with findings, reconstructions, exhibitions and domestic animals. The Lofotr Viking Museum is a reconstruction of the 83 metres long Chiefdom that was erected at "Borg" in the "Lofoten" islands around 500 AD. Travel there by car or bus from "Svolvær" and "Henningsvær" in the east, or "Leknes" in the west. Full dinner or a quick stop For a full dinner with presentations of life in the Viking age, done by professional guides in Viking costumes, you must book in advance. It is worth the extra planning. Lamb and wild boar are popular ingredients on the menu, served with the traditional Viking drink mead, which is alcohol, honey and herbs. You do not have to book in advance to see the museum. Just have a stop on your way through the islands. During the main season, from 15 June to 15 August, broth will be served in the banqueting hall every day. You can also ask to taste mead, served in traditional Viking glasses. Every half hour there will be a horse carriage from the chieftain’s house the boathouse. You can participate on a rowing trip with a reconstruction of a famous Viking ship. Guided tours are included in the entrance ticket, and there are several tours during the day. Look for information when you arrive, or call in advance for more detailed information. Groups have to order guided tours in advance. History When you enter the Viking chieftain’s house, it is like being transported back to the Viking Age. Light flickers from the hearts and gleams from the ceiling lamps, and the smell of tar fills your nostrils. Archaeological studies commenced here in 1983, and from 1986 to 1989, a joint Scandinavian research project was conducted at "Borg". Excavations brought to light remains of the largest building ever to be found in the Viking Realm, in Norway or elsewhere in Europe. For the first time, archaeologists were sure they had found a chieftain's dwelling. The excavations revealed that a 67-metre long building had been erected as early as in the sixth century. It was rebuilt and expanded in the beginning of the Viking Era to a length of 83 metres. Opening hours During the summer season (8 May - 14 September 2008) the museum will be open every day at the following times:8 May – 31 May: 11 am – 5 pm 1 June – 24 August: 10 am – 7 pm 25 August – 14 September: 11 am – 5 pm During the winter season the museum is only open on Fridays between 1 pm and 3 pm. The museum accepts groups for guided tours all year around. For further information, please contact the museum. Prices During the main season (mid-June – mid-August) the prices are as follows:Adults: NOK 100 Senior citizens/students: NOK 90 Children: NOK 50 Family (two adults + three children): NOK 300 Children under the age of six: Free
         2. "Eggum" At Eggum and Unstad the houses are grouped together as they would have been in the Middle Ages, and attractively situated at the foot of tall mountains. At Eggum you find a beautiful pebbled beach which is a nice spot to experience the midnight sun and the sculpture "Head" by the Swiss artist Markus Raetz which is part of the Artscape Nordland project.
         3. "Unstad" At Unstad a tunnel leading to the village was opened in the autumn of 1995. Here there are excellent conditions for surfing. At Eggum and Unstad the houses are grouped together as they would have been in the Middle Ages, and attractively situated at the foot of tall mountains.
         4. "Utakleiv"
         5. "Leknes" courtyard site
         6. "Stamsund"
         7. "Mortsund"
         8. "Ballstad"
         9. "Nappsstraumen"
      4. "Flakstadøy"

         1. "Vikten"

         2. "Nusfjord" The fishing village of Nusfjord has an intertwining building area, which evolved at the end of the nineteenth century and the beginning of the twentieth century. The building complex has survived as a homogenous unit, unscathed by fires or intrusive elements of modern architecture. This gives Nusfjord its uniqueness. Here archaeologists have uncovered evidence of the earliest "industrial fishing" in the Nordland region. Diggings have uncovered settlements from the fifth century. Det har lenge versert «rykter» om at trehusbebyggelsen i Nusfjord står på UNESCOs verdensarvliste, men dette er ikke riktig. Det som er tilfelle er at Nusfjord i UNESCOs arkitekturvernår (1975) ble utpekt som et av tre pilotprosjekter i Norge, for bevaring og synliggjøring av unike trehusmiljøer.
         3. "Flakstad"
         4. "Ramberg" , where the very inviting white, sandy beach brings to mind a more southerly latitude.
      5. "Moskenes" island: There are ferries from "Bodø" to the "Lofoten" Islands. Some of them call at "Røst" and "Værøy" on their way to "Moskenes". Here you will find some of Northern Europe's biggest seabird colonies. Puffins are particularly popular visitors, staying out there from late April to early August. On the way from "Å", the fishing villages lie like pearls on a string: "Tind" , "Sørvågen" , "Moskenes", "Reine" and "Hamnøy".
         1. "Hamnøy"

         2. "Reine"

            The view from "Reine" towards the "Kirkefjord" was the reason why "Reine" was once voted the most beautiful place in Norway.
         3. "Kirkefjord"
         4. "Sørvågen"
         5. "Tind"
         6. "Å" The E10 through the "Lofoten" Islands finishes up at "Å", approximately five kilometres from the ferry docks. In the village of Å you find the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum and the Stockfish Museum.
         7. "Kollhellaren" "http://www.nrk.no/nyheter/distrikt/nordland/1.6193854" Here you find traces of settlements dating thousands of years back in time. The gigantic Kollhellaren Cave in "Refsvika" is a coastal cavern with approximately 3,000-year-old cave paintings. Kollhellaren eller Refsvikhula Nordland har flest oppdagede hulemalerier i landet. John Inge Johansen john.inge.johansen@nrk.no Publisert 26.08.2008 16:46. Kommentarer Skriv ut Del/tips Kollhellaren er en gigantisk katedral. Hula er delt i tre og har form som et kors. Foto: John Inge Johansen/NRK Nordland fylke utpeker seg som det viktigste av alle i landet når det gjelder funn av hulemalerier fra yngre steinalder. Det er bare ni registrerte funn i landet, og sju av dem ligger i Nordland fylke. 33 dansende mennesker Ett av funnene er tilgjengelig for offentligheten gjennom en guide-ordning, de andre er stengt etter kulturminneloven. På yttersiden av Lofoten, i det fraflytta fiskeværet Revsvik, ligger Kollhellaren. Ei stor hule som naturen har gravd ut en gang i tiden. Inne i hula har arkeologene funnet mange bilder av dansende mennesker, 33 i alt, og en av figurene bærer på en stav. -Dette kan være en sjamanstav, sier fylkesarkeolog Martinus A. Hauglid. Han var student i 1987 og var en av de som oppdaget hulemaleriene først. Etter oppdagelsen holdt Tromsø Museum funnet hemmelig inntil man hadde mer klarhet i hvordan de best kunne bevares for ettertiden. Sårbare Maleriene av jernoksyd og kalkvann er ekstremt såbare, både for berøring, men også for plutselige temperaturskifter. Beliggenheten inne fjellet medfører en jevn temperatur på mellom fire og åtte grader. Ved plutselige varmeendringer kan man risikere at fjellet sprekker. -Derfor har vi utarbeidet et regelverk som innbefatter at det er begrenset hvor mange mennesker som kan være inne i hula samtidig, og det er strenge reguleringer på bruk av lys. Filming av maleriene kan kun skje ved særskilt tillatelse, sier Hauglid. Sannsynligvis er maleriene mellom 2500 og 4000 år gamle. Port til ånder Arkeologene vet ikke så mye om religionsutøvelsen til steinalderfolket, men overleveringer i andre jeger og samler-samfunn, viser at sjamanisme og kontakt med åndeverden er sentralt i trosbildet. Derfor er det grunn til å tro at hulene i Nordland kan ha hatt religiøs betydning. -Det kan se ut som om en av de store figurene i den ene gangen i hula har en stav, og av enkelte har dette blitt tolket som en sjamanstav, sier Hauglid. Dermed tror vi at denne hula her har vært en portal for å komme i kontakt med ånder på den andre siden. (Artikkelen fortsetter under bildet). De dansende fyrstikkmennene er særegne for denne type malerier i huler - norske funn begrenser seg til Lofoten i nord og Namdalen i sør. Foto: John Inge Johansen/NRK Ytterst i Lofoten Hulemaleriene og de dansende menneskene finner vi igjen i huler på Værøy og på Røst. Disse hulene er vanskeligere tilgjengelig, blant annet på grunn av hekkesesongen som gjør det forbudt å trå i land på Trenyken hvor ei hule som kalles ”Helvete” befinner seg. Det kan ut fra funnene tyde på at det har vært en aktiv religion med sentrum ytterst i Lofoten i yngre steinalder. Formen og framstillingen av figurene her avviker en del fra det som finnes ellers i fylket og ned mot Namdal. Mange teorier Det finnes også andre, mer ”spreke” teorier som knytter sammen flere av hulefunnene i Nordland. Ønsker du å vite hva noen tenker om sammenhengen mellom de gamle grekerne, Hyperborea, Utrøst og andre sagn? Sjekk lenkene nederst i artikkelen. Det er startet et prosjekt for å se på bergkunst i den ytre delen av Europa. Prosjektet startet i 2001 og kulturminneavdelingen ved Nordland Fylkeskommuneer involvert i forskningen rundt dette. ”Bergkunst representerer en enestående mulighet til å få et innblikk i livet og forestillingsverdenen i forhistoriske samfunn. Bergkunst er også en verdensomspennende uttrykksform, den spenner over mange perioder og alle kontinenter. Til tross for lang tids forskning og appell til dagens mennesker, er bergkunsten fortsatt en gåtefull levning fra fortiden. Hvor gammel er kunstformen? Hvem var de menneskene som laget den? Hva er meningen bak den?” heter det i prosjektbeskrivelsen fra fylkeskommunens hjemmesider. "http://www.lofoten-info.no/default2.htm" The Maelstrom and 3000 Year Old Cave Paintings – Sea Safari The Maelstrom, Refsvikhula cave and abandoned settlements. We leave from Nusfjord calling at Hamnøy, Reine, Sørvågen and Å. We sail along the coast to the abandoned hamlet of Ånstad and on to the Lofoten headland, where we encounter the infamous “Maelstrom,” one of the world’s strongest tidal currents. The Maelstrom was first described by Pytheas the Greek over 2000 years ago and has since been described and marked on innumerable sea charts together with terrifying illustrations and warnings. The Maelstrom is abundant in fish and has as such formed the basis of settlement for thousands of years. We test the forces of Nature and if we are lucky we may see eagles, cormorants, seals and perhaps even whales. We visit the abandoned hamlet of Hell on the headland. We round the headland to the northern side of the island near the abandoned hamlet of Refsvika from where we walk to the Refsvikhula cave (Kollhellaren), a gigantic “natural cathedral” 115m deep and with over 50 metres of headroom. Inside the cave, mystical human figures have been found painted on the walls of the cave by Stone Age people over 3000 years ago. In the summer, the Midnight Sun shines directly into the cave creating a magical atmosphere. A guide will accompany you all the way and there will be a break for a bite to eat on the way. Participants should be capable of hiking a fair distance. The cave is a listed area and visits without authorized personnel are prohibited. Duration: approx. 6 hours. Incl. approx 90 minute walk in undulating terrain. Price: NOK 900 per person (incl. loan of survival suit and guide) Discount: Children under 14: 50% discount Departure: Mon./Wed./Fri/Sun. at 17.00 From Å: Pick up only on request. Period: June 20 to August 20 Passengers: Minimum 6 full fares Boats: RIB. Max 12 persons (very stable and seaworthy vessels) Booking: Coast Adventure, tel. (0047) 48 09 08 20
         8. A boat trip through

            "Moskstrømmen"

            "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moskstraumen" , characterized as one of the most fiercest and dangerous maelstroms in the world, brings you to the "outside" of "Lofoten". The Moskstraumen (popularly known as the Maelstrom) is a system of tidal eddies and whirlpools, one of the strongest in the world, that forms in a strait adjacent to the Lofoten archipelago, Norway. The Moskstraumen has featured in many historical accounts, generally exaggerated. It was described more than 1500 years ago, and later, it was marked on many maps with dramatic descriptions. A Swedish bishop showed it on his map, describing it as stronger than the Sicilian Charybdis.
            
            "http://www.datadesign.ws/moskstraumen-adventure/priser.htm" PRISER PÅ AKTIVITETER – OPPLEVELSE: Fiske- og kystopplevelsesturer med lokal fiskebåt. Skipper – båtfører med tilhørighet og lang erfaring som fisker. TURER MED FISKEBÅT FISKER FOR EN DAG Opplev spenning og utfordring ombord i vår fiskebåt. Båten seiler fra Å til fiskeplasser nær tidevannsstraumene fra den beryktede Moskstraumen. Vi prøver fiskelykken. Hvis været tillater det, krysser vi den beryktede Moskstraumen, tester ut kreftene i tidevannsstraumene og runder Lofotens sydspiss ( Lofotodden ). Her besøker vi havnen til det gamle fiskeværet Hell og tar en rast. Varighet: ca.4 timer. Avgang: daglig kl.12.00 fra Å i perioden 1. juni til 20. august Pris: NOK 500.- per person, min.5 personer. (barn under 14 år, halv pris) Båt: ”Hellvåg”. 12m lang. TA MED : Vind-og vanntette klær, fotoapparat, mat og drikke. VÆRFORBEHOLD Booking: Moskstraumen Adventure - Lofoten, Å i Lofoten Mob: 977 56 021 mellom kl 10 og 18. Med vår spennende og ville natur som vertskap og lokale fiskere som los, skulle alt ligge til rette for opplevelse og spenning på alle turer, med muligheter for å se div. fuglearter, sel og hval. VELKOMMEN OMBORD Moskstraumen Adventure - Lofoten, Å i Lofoten, N-8392 Sørvågen. Tel. (+47) 977 56 021 Email: booking@moskstraumen.com
            
            "http://www.sund-gjestestuer.no/en/as_arrangerteturer.html" The notorious Moskstraumen, is the worlds strongest sea current. Trips are available through Moskstraumen to Refsvika; an abandoned fishing harbour on the tip of Lofoten. Here you can find the sea cave, "Kollhellaren", which is 115 m deep and 50 m high to the arch. Spectacularly, this ceiling displays cave drawings of over 3000 years in age. Booking / Contact Web http://www.sund-gjestestuer.no E-mail post@sund-gjestestuer.no Fax (+47) 23 10 34 01 Booking Please send us a mail with requests and personal information. We will reply as soon as possible. Contact personsHermann Edvardsen (+47) 976 83 314 Finn Moe (+47) 959 97 077 Helge Gjerstad (+47) 911 31 916 Rita Moe (+47) 901 78 959 Whale safari Every year Orca whales move through the West Fjord on route to Tysfjord where they spend their winter. Whilst doing so they hunt for Atlantic herring. From October to February arranged whale safaris are operated from Lofoten and Tysfjord to see and witness these splendid animals. http://www.orca-lofoten.com/
      6. "Værøy" and "Røst" are the farthest out to sea, separated from the other islands by the fabled Maelstrom – "Moskstraumen". When travelling to the other islands, the people of "Værøy" and "Røst" say that they are "going to "Lofoten"", but even so, they still regard themselves as thoroughbred Lofoteners. They share the same geography, yet the islands are different in how the weather effects them, in how the people live, and in the natural resources harvested there. Thus the islands can offer exciting variations in both nature, culture and history.
      7. "Røst" Bird rocks On the tip of "Lofoten" you find the island of "Røst" and many other islands, islets and reefs. These are home of the largest number of nesting birds in Norway, with approximately one quarter of the country's seabird population. In the 1990’s, the local authorities on the island of "Røst", encourage people to keep sheep – and they are in fact succeeding. In 1994, lamb from Lofoten was voted the best in the world, perhaps this too has encouraged others to start keeping sheep?
      8. "Skomvær" Visit the Skomvær Lighthouse - the final outpost overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
      • Killer whale safaris Every autumn the herring and killer whales swim up the "Tysfjord" and Vestfjord to spend the winter here. From mid-October until mid-January, killer whale safaris set out from "Lofoten" in large passenger boats and rubber dinghies.
      • Fishing Come out to sea and try your luck at fishing. Experience the atmosphere and the excitement at the fishing area. One thing is certain; you will not be bored with the scenery while you are waiting for the fish to bite. Every winter, hundreds of people travel to "Lofoten" to see who gets the most and the largest arctic cod in the World Championship in cod fishing.
      • Hiking and biking Cycling in "Lofoten" offers unique experiences. With clothing suited to the conditions and good equipment, "Lofoten" can be comfortably enjoyed not just in the busiest weeks of summer. "Lofoten" is in general easy cycling country; however the roads can be pretty crowded with cars, caravans and mobile homes during the height of summer. The hiking trails in "Lofoten" promote all kinds of activities and wonderful experiences in varied and exciting nature.
      • Rafting The open sea, steep mountains, narrow straits and luscious islets. Changing light and crystal-clear water. An experience you will never forget. The rubber dinghies are extremely robust and will carry you to new adventures.
      • Kayaking Experience nature and the animal kingdom from the surface of the ocean. You cannot get closer to the ocean and the seals. A kayak gives you the opportunity to move around at your own tempo, and it is an excellent way to relax.
   4. "Ofoten" The Ofoten Museum is situated close to the town centre of "Narvik". It is located in the old railway administration building that dates back to 1902, and displays exhibitions from the local cultural history.
      1. "Blåfjell" "Blåfjellvann" The trail from the Lake Blåfjellvann to Vilgesvarre in Skånland Municipality and the route from Sand to Sandsvannet and Trollvannet in "Tjeldsund" Municipality. In "Kvæfjord" Municipality, the hikes at Melåa, towards Storhornet, and the area around Vik are recommended.
      2. "Evenes"
      3. "Narvik" "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Norway/North/Narvik/Attractions-in-Narvik/" In Narvik, visit the War Memorial Museum and the Ofoten Museum. Drive westwards to "Sortland" and continue to "Andøya".
         1. "Swedish border" The Ofoten Railway The Ofoten Railway extends for 42 kilometres (from "Narvik" to the Swedish border) and the journey is a tourist attraction in itself.
         2. "Narvikfjellet" Mountain A cable car takes you up to the viewpoint on Narvikfjellet 650 metres above sea level, from where you can enjoy magnificent views over Narvik and the Ofotfjord.
         3. Rock carving exhibition at the Ofoten Museum The rock carvings in the "Narvik" area are about 5,000 years old. At Brennholtet in "Narvik" an elk is hewed out in the rock.
         4. "Lapphaugen" "http://194.9.32.142/article.php?sid=18052" sacrificial site This site consists of a huge natural pyramid shaped boulder, about 6 metres tall and 10 metres wide. standing upright with a huge flat side to the east. In front of the east side it lies another boulder, low but flat. It is shapen as a huge natural-shaped table, about 4 metres across, and it has probably served as an altar for the Sami rituals. The site is in a beautiful mountain leaf forest, and the landscape around is also beautiful! An "altar" seen from the west and a large boulder is about 6 meters tall and 7-8 meters wide. The site is about 400m above sea level.
         5. "Red Cross War Memorial Museum" The Nordland Red Cross War Memorial Museum The collections show the "Narvik" Campaign of 1940, and the town during five years of German occupation, 1940 – 1945. The museum shows the fighting at sea, on land and in the air, with the participating forces from many nations - British, French, Polish, German and Norwegian. The situation of the sivil population and the many foreign POW’s is also presented.
         6. "Narvik" Church was consecrated on 16 December 1925. The architect was Olaf Nordhagen. The altar piece was painted by Eilif Pettersen.
         7. Polar Zoo See wolves, brown bears, lynx, wolverines, arctic foxes, elks and other animals from the polar fauna. Polar Zoo, which is one the world's northernmost zoos, lies in the Salangsdalen Valley in "Bardu".
         8. "Artscape Nordland" Artscape Nordland Who says you have to go to a city or a gallery, or visit other people’s indoor art collections, to enjoy sculptures? Art can also be admired outdoors. Artscape Nordland is an international art collection where artists from 18 different countries delivered their contributions during the period from 1992 to 1998. This unique collection of international outdoor sculptures can be found in beautiful and varied landscapes in no less than 33 municipalities around the county of Nordland.
      4. "Skjomen" Skjomen is a typical ice-eroded fjord. A beautiful destination for anybody who enjoys geology, bird watching, history, golf, dramatic scenery and peaceful surroundings.
      5. "Efjord" The road now crosses the elegant Efjord bridges to "Ballangen" and on to "Narvik" where you will fin Europe’s biggest iron ore shipping plant.
      6. "Ballangen" Museum Ballangen Museum presents the extensive mining activities that have been going on in the borough ever since the 1600’s. The local mining and prospecting operations are documented with the help of exhibits and photos. The museum also displays exhibits showing fishing, agriculture, housekeeping and school and cultural life. The museum is situated in Bjørkåsen, approximately two and a half kilometres from Ballangen centre. Turn off the E6 at the Statoil petrol station. The road is signposted.
      7. "Tysfjord" The ferry from "Bognes" to Skarberget offers a spectacular view of the untamed Tysfjord and Efjord Mountains. Villages in Tysfjord (names in both official languages)Lule Sami and Norwegian: Ájládde Hellandsberg, Ájluokta "Drag", Gásluokta Kjøpsvik, Hierggenjárgga Korsnes, Jågåsijdda Storå, Måsske Musken, Soahkeluokta Bjørkvik, Stuorgiedde Storjord, Tjierrekluokta Nordbukt, Vuodnabahta Hellemobotn,

         1. "Stetind"

            "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stetind" Mountain is a natural obelisk towering 1,381 metres straight up from the fjord. In 2002, Stetid was voted Norway’s national mountain. Killer whales have a herring feast in the "Tysfjord" from October to January, as they invade the fjord in search of the "silver of the sea". Why not join a killer whale safari if you come during winter? Stetind is located only an hour away from "Narvik" by car. The journey from "Narvik" to Stetind is a fantastic way to experience Ofoten and enjoy the unique landscape and peaceful surroundings. In Norwegian, it is called gudenes ambolt which means the "anvil of the gods", partly because the summit forms a plateau. This was selected to be the national mountain of Norway in the autumn of 2002. The famous British climber William C. Slingsby described it as the ugliest mountain I ever saw; he did not reach the summit.
         2. "Gihtsejiegŋa" The mountains near the border with Sweden have peaks up to 1,500 metres (4,921 ft) above sea level, and the glacier Gihtsejiegŋa (in Sami language) is one of the largest glaciers in mainland Norway. Its highest point is 1,500 m (4,921 ft) above sea level, right below the summit Bjørntoppen (1,520 m). Its lowest point is 870 m (2,854 ft) above sea level. Location Tysfjord, Nordland, Norway Coordinates 68°0′N 16°50′ECoordinates: 68°0′N 16°50′E Area 25 km2 (10 sq mi)

         3. "Leiknes"

            "http://www.panoramio.com/photo/9559303" "http://mt3.google.com/mt/v=apt.92&hl=en&x=1115&y=486&z=11&s=Galileo" "Tysfjord" municipality From "Fauske" you drive northwards along the E6. A side road at "Bognes" leads out to the Leiknes range, one of the best preserved rock carving ranges in the country. The carvings are 8 - 9,000 years old and consist of about 40 full-scale figures (hunting).
         4. "Bognes" The ferry from Bognes to Skarberget offers a spectacular view of the untamed "Tysfjord" and Efjord Mountains. Alternatively, you can turn off to "Drag", from where there is a ferry to Kjøpsvik. Subsequently, follow the rv. 827 to the E6 and drive on to "Narvik".
         5. "Árran" - lulesami center 20-03-2007 - was established in 1994 and is located in "Drag" , Norway. The main purpose of Árran as a national centre is to maintain and develop sami language, culture and society in the lulesami area. In Árran there is a museum and a sami kindergarden. In addition Árran works on sami language issues, High North issues, conducts research projects, teaches sami language by video conference, publishes books and sells souvenirs. Árran publishes a scientific journal and in addition the journal “Bårjås” annually. Árran is a member of the University of the Arctic, and coordinates the work of the Sami Institutions Network on High North Affairs. Including tenants, there are about 35 persons working daily at Árran. Árran - julevsáme guovdásj/ lulesamisk senter 8270 Ájluokta/"Drag" tlf: +47 75 77 51 00 fax: +47 75 77 51 01 Museum, duodje(sami handicrafts) for sale. Do you want to know more about sami history, culture and social life? What exactly is sami culture? What makes a person sami? Opening hours Daily: kl. 08.00 - 15.30 Extended opening hours during the summer, June 23th - August 17th: Daily: kl. 10.00 - 18.00 Weekends: kl. 11.00 - 17.00 Tickets: Adultsr: kr. 40,- Children: kr. 10,- Groups: kr 30,-
   5. "Salten" is a district in Nordland in North Norway, consisting of the municipalities Meløy, Gildeskål, "Bodø", Beiarn, Saltdal, "Fauske", Sørfold, Steigen and Hamarøy.
      1. "Fauske" Fauske is perhaps best known for its marble, Norwegian Rose. Rv. 830 from Sulitjelma was built on the old railway line. The former mining town of Sulitjelma was founded in the 1890’s. Today, there is a mining museum and show mines in Sulitjelma. Leaving Fauske, you return to "Bodø" along the rv. 80. From Tverlandet it is only 13 kilometres to every angler’s paradise, Saltstraumen.
      2. "Bodø" Archaeological findings The earliest known traces of human settlement in "Bodø" are in the "Saltstraumen" area. There was a settlement of hunters here 10,000 years ago. They lived practically on the edge of the ice, attracted by an abundance of fish in the fast-moving currents. The remains of their settlement were discovered only a few years ago, and are among the oldest archaeological findings in Norway. "Bodø", the county capital, is a node of communications and a lively city. Cultural life there is vibrant all year round. The Nordland Music Festival is a major annual cultural event with a range of famous artists. In the city itself, you will find the Norwegian Aviation Museum, a great place to visit for young and old. "Saltstraumen", the world’s strongest tidal current, is a well-known paradise for sport fishermen and is only 33 kilometres from "Bodø" city centre. You can also gain insight into the local history there, all the way back to the Stone Age. North of "Bodø" lies the beautiful Kjerringøy Old Trading Post. In its heyday this was one of Northern Norway’s mightiest trading posts, today it is one of the best preserved in Northern Norway. There is a car ferry from "Svolvær" via Skrova to Skutvik in Hamarøy. Drop in at Tranøy, a tiny village with charming architecture. At Ulvsvåg on the E6 you turn south. Turning off onto the rv. 827 from Sommerset, you drive to "Drag" in "Tysfjord", where you find Arran, the Lule–Sami centre where you can learn about the Sami people’s history, language and culture. Turn off along the rv. 835 to Steigen with its contrasting natural surroundings and cultural landscape with relics from the Iron Age, World War II and more recent times.

      3. "Saltstraumen"

         "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Theme/What-to-do/Attractions/Nature/The-Saltstraumen-maelstrom/" "Saltstraumen" is the world’s most powerful maelstrom, one of the world’s strongest tidal currents, just 33 kilometres from "Bodø" town centre. Every six hours, 400 million cubic metres of water at speeds of up to 20 knots (40 kilometres per hour) rush under the "Saltstraumen" Bridge through the 150-metre wide and 3-kilometre long sound connecting the Saltenfjord and the Skjerstadfjord. The powerful whirlpools can be up to 10 metres in diameters and 5 metres deep. A tide table for "Saltstraumen" is available at the local tourist information office. "Saltstraumen" is famous for its diving and abundance of fish, including cod, coalfish, wolffish and halibut. The world record for coalfish caught with a fishing pole was set here, an impressive 22.7 kilos. If you want to try your luck fishing you can either rent tackle for fishing from shore, or you can fish from a boat. You can hire a boat on the spot, or join a group going out on one of the deep-sea fishing charter boats. Every time the current turns there is a "time window" when larger ships can pass through the sound. You can obtain information about these times from a local signal station on the VHF. At these times the current is almost calm. Anyone being in a boat or down by the sea must show caution because "Saltstraumen" is dangerous, there are underwater currents even when the surface is calm. Even if the weather is fine in the morning it does not mean that it will stay that way all day. Check the weather forecast or ask a local before you leave. If the clouds darken and start to gather, it is a good idea to head back. It is smart to tell someone where you are going. Remember lifejackets! Go for a wander The surrounding area is a great starting point for rambling and hiking in the beautiful mountain wilderness, such as Børvasstindene, or for wandering through areas rich in archaeological remains.
      4. "Saltfjellet" Saltfjellet (lit. The Salt Mountain) is a mountain area in Nordland, Norway that separates the two regions of Helgeland and Salten. It is also a cultural border between the Southern and Central parts of Sápmi. This is one of the largest mountain ranges in Norway, and is also where the Arctic Circle cuts through the country. This range is part of seven municipalities: The northern part is part of Saltdal, Bodø, Beiarn and Gildeskål, the western part is in Meløy and Rødøy while the southern part is in Rana. The highest mountain is Ølfjellet 1,751 m above sea level. The mountains stretch from the coast to the Swedish border. The glacier Svartisen is actually two glaciers, separated by the Glomdalen valley with the Glomåga river. Western Svartisen is the second largest glacier on the Norwegian mainland, and is part of the Saltfjellet-Svartisen National Park. There are many other glaciers as well. A total of 2,587 km² of the area is protected. Several long valleys radiate from the mountains, such as Dunderlandsdal and Blakkådalen going south from the mountains, and Saltdal and Beiardalen going northwards. The eastern part of the range forms a plateau with some gently sloping mountains, and this is where the road and railway crosses over Saltfjell. Both road and railway take advantage of the Dunderlandsdal and the Saltdal valley to make the distance on the alpine tundra, which often sees snowstorms in winter, as short as possible. The western part is more alpine and steep, and this is where the engabreen glacier tongue of Western Svartisen almost reaches down to the fjord. The Arctic Circle crosses Nordland at the Saltfjellet Mountain. Get your Arctic Circle certificate at the Arctic Circle Centre. The Arctic Circle Centre is situated by the E6 highway at Saltfjellet in the county of Nordland. It is also situated in a national park with wonderful hiking opportunities. In the area around the centre, there are Russian and Yugoslavian war memorials from World War II. The centre's architecture is adapted to the surrounding nature, and a path made of marble shows how the Arctic Circle runs through the centre. At the centre you will find a cafeteria serving Norwegian food, a large souvenir/gift shop and an exhibition covering art, marble and stuffed arctic animals - including Europe's largest stuffed polar bear. There is an excellent movie theatre showing the multi-vision programme "Northern Norway". You will find a post office selling postcards with a special Arctic Circle seal. The Arctic Circle Centre is open from 1 May to 15 September.
      5. "Svartisen" "http://www.dirnat.no/content.ap?thisId=3027" Svartisen is a collective term for two glaciers located in northern Norway. The system consists of two separate glaciers, Vestre (western) Svartisen (221 km²), which is the second largest glacier on the Norwegian mainland (there are larger glaciers on Svalbard) after Jostedalsbreen Østre (eastern) Svartisen (148 km²), which is the country's fourth largest. There are also a number of minor glaciers in the area, such as Glombreen in the northern part of Meløy, and Simlebreen in Beiarn. One of the extensions of Svartisen, Engabreen ends at the lowest point of any glacier on the European mainland, at 20 meters above sea level (in 2007). Svartisen is part of "Saltfjellet"-Svartisen national park, located in the Saltfjell mountain range. Hydropower is collected mainly from Storglomvatnet (lake), which gets melting water from the glacier Water from the glacier is collected and used for hydropower production.
   6. "Vega" "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Theme/What-to-do/Attractions/Nature/The-Vega-islands/" "http://verdensarvvega.no/english.htm" "http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1143" "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Stories/Norway/Central/Kystriksveien/" The Vega Islands Cultural heritage, UNESCO The islands bear testimony to a way of life based on fishing and the harvesting of the down of eider ducks, in an inhospitable environment. There are fishing villages, quays, warehouses, eider-houses (built for eider ducks to nest in), farming landscapes, lighthouses and beacons. The archipelago reflects the way fishermen and farmers have, over the past 1,500 years, maintained a sustainable living. The Vega Archipelago is a cluster of dozens of islands centred on Vega, just south of the Arctic Circle. It forms a cultural landscape of 103,710-ha, of which 6,930 is land. The islands bear testimony to a distinctive frugal way of life based on fishing and the harvesting of the down of eider ducks, in an inhospitable environment. The archipelago reflects the way fishermen/farmers have, over the past 1500 years, maintained a sustainable living and celebrates the contribution of women to eiderdown harvesting. There are fishing villages, quays, warehouses, eider-houses (built for eider ducks to nest in), farming landscapes, lighthouses and beacons. There is evidence of human settlement from the Stone Age onwards. By the 9th century, the islands had become an important centre for the supply of down which appears to have accounted for around a third of the islanders' income. What is the World Heritage Committee? The World Heritage Committee consists of representatives from 21 of the States Parties to the Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, elected by the General Assembly of States Parties to the Convention. One of the essential functions of the Committee is to identify, on the basis of nominations submitted by States Parties, cultural and natural properties of outstanding universal value which are to be protected under the Convention and to list those properties on the World Heritage List. Description of The Vega Archipelago The island kingdom of Vega in the district of Nordland, Norway encompasses 6000 islands, holms, and skerries. Most of the 1400 inhabitants of the county live on the main island of Vega, where fishing and agriculture have been the primary way of life for more than 10,000 years. The county of Vega includes the largest concentration of islands in Norway, with thousands of islands, holms, and skerries. Vega is a kingdom of contrasts - with maritime islands, high mountains, wetlands, and rich bird, plant, and mammal populations. Values Why have the islands of Vega been nominated for the status of World Heritage Site? For the islands of Vega the nomination process began as a local initiative based on the Nordic report "World Heritage List in the Nordic Countries, NORD 1996:30." In this report the Northern Norwegian islands are one of four new Norwegian areas suggested for consideration. In May 2001 the Norwegian Parliament resolved to start the nomination processes for these Norwegian areas. They further resolved to give priority to the nomination process for the islands of Vega. The presence of rare biotopes, unusual geology, distinctive marine and terrestrial flora and fauna, captivating aesthetic values, and unique history and development of the cultural landscape - all these criteria will be used to evaluate the islands of Vega as a World Heritage Site. The bedrock of the Vega islands varies from mica slate, calcareous slate, and limestone in the northwest to granite in the south and west. The region has noteworthy natural values in Zoology, Ornithology, and Botany. The nesting and migratory habitats for wetland and sea birds are nationally and internationally important. The Vega islands are winter territories for many diving ducks, divers, and loons. [The tradition to keep eider ducks as domestic animals] Large populations of otters and other marine mammals also thrive in this island environment. Vega includes some of the most windswept, battered islands on the coast of Nordland. Many of these have distinctive maritime and tidal vegetation communities - combinations of species that are unique in terms of plant geography. Stone Age On Vega the early Stone Age settlements were located near the marine resources - on the ocean beaches. Thousands of years of eustacy and isostacy have strung archaeological sites like ropes of pearls on beaches ranging in elevation from 70 m above sea level down to modern sea level. The common economic basis was once a combination of fishing and agriculture. The Eider Ducks Eider duck egg and down collecting was an important source of extra income on the islands. These traditional activities are still practiced in some parts of the county of Vega. In addition to representing a significant historical value, the tradition offers an excellent example of "sustainable development" -- the use of renewable resources. Unique islands Island groups like these in Northern Europe are not common on a global basis. In size and form the Northern Norwegian islands, epitomized by the islands of Vega, are unique. In Northern Norway nature is harsh and brutal. The islands of Vega have an entirely different character than the other Nordic island landscapes suggested for status as World Heritage Sites (for example the islands in the brackish Baltic Sea). A cluster of dozens of islands centred on Vega, just south of the Arctic Circle, forms a cultural landscape of 103,710 ha, of which 6,930 ha is land. The islands bear testimony to a distinctive frugal way of life based on fishing and the harvesting of the down of eider ducks, in an inhospitable environment. There are fishing villages, quays, warehouses, eider houses (built for eider ducks to nest in), farming landscapes, lighthouses and beacons. There is evidence of human settlement from the Stone Age onwards. By the 9th century, the islands had become an important centre for the supply of down, which appears to have accounted for around a third of the islanders’ income. The Vega Archipelago reflects the way fishermen/farmers have, over the past 1,500 years, maintained a sustainable living and the contribution of women to eiderdown harvesting. Justification for Inscription Criterion (v): The Vega archipelago reflects the way generations of fishermen/farmers have, over the past 1500 years, maintained a sustainable living in an inhospitable seascape near the Arctic Circle, based on the now unique practice of eider down harvesting, and it also celebrate the contribution made by women to the eider down process.
   7. "Kystriksveien" "http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Stories/Norway/Central/Kystriksveien/" By car It is reccommend driving all of the 650 kilometres, but if you want to cut down on the trip and combine Kystriksveien with the E6, there are many connecting roads to explore. Arriving from the south, you leave the main road E6 just six kilometres north of Steinkjer, approximately 120 kilometres north of Trondheim. From "Lofoten" you can take the ferry from "Moskenes" to "Bodø". If you travel on the E6 from the north you can leave the E6 at "Fauske" and head west. By ferry You can enjoy several ferries along Kystriksveien. Just along the main road rv. 17 between "Bodø" and Steinkjer, there are six ferries. No reservations are needed and you will find the ferry trips a pleasant experience. During the high season (July) you should make sure to show up at least 30 minutes ahead of departure time. By boat Travelling by express boat is an interesting way to explore the coastline. Try the express boat Namdalingen from Namsos to Rørvik, or a round trip starting in Sandnessjøen. You should try a voyage with "Hurtigruten" (The Norwegian Coastal Express) which stops at Rørvik, Brønnøysund, Sandnessjøen, Nesna, Ørnes and "Bodø". If you take the trip from "Bodø" or Ørnes to Rørvik you will enjoy a daytime cruise. By plane Trondheim Airport Værnes is located 100 kilometres south of Steinkjer and good domestic and international flight connections. "Bodø" Airport has good domestic flight connections. Smaller airports served by Widerøe are found in Namsos, Rørvik, Brønnøysund and Sandnessjøen.
4. "Hurtigruten" "http://www.hurtigruten.com/norway/" (The Norwegian Coastal Voyage) starts out in Bergen and takes you across the Arctic Circle to "Kirkenes" in Finnmark, through the heart of coastal Norway. You can choose to join for a short trip, or take the whole cruise to "Kirkenes" and back. The journey Bergen - "Kirkenes" - Bergen takes 11 days. Departures are daily and there are frequent stops along the coast. The ships can accommodate cars, making it easy to combine the cruise with a holiday in different places ashore. Hurtigruten sails along the beautiful coastline, through magical fjords and to enchanted islands, calling at 34 ports. Enjoy a genuine, friendly and unpretentious voyage which is truly Norwegian. Each ship has a distinct style and character and no two journeys will ever be the same. The changing seasons, climate, flora and fauna and the local people you meet will make each voyage a different experience.