Family Adventure on Senja Island

Beacon of Beauty and Midnight Hues

Today was a day of iconic landmarks and breathtaking views, a perfect blend of history and nature under the ever-present glow of the midnight sun. Senja Island continues to enchant us with its raw beauty, and I'm excited to share our adventures with you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Skagi Senja hotel & lodge - Flo bord og bar. Fuelling up with the family before a day of exploration is essential, especially with Astrid's boundless energy. The Skagi Senja Hotel was a great place to start the day, it offered a cozy atmosphere and set us up perfectly for the adventures that lay ahead. I even managed to snag an extra pastry, much to Maximilian's amusement, whispering that I needed the energy for all the hiking we had planned. He knows me too well!

First on our itinerary was the Hamn Lighthouse. The drive there was an experience in itself, winding through narrow roads that hugged the coastline. The views were simply stunning, with the sea sparkling under the midnight sun. Even though it was mid-day, the sun's unique position created a magical atmosphere. We parked near the lighthouse and took a leisurely stroll around the grounds. The lighthouse itself is a classic beauty, standing proudly against the dramatic cliffs and sparkling waters. It felt like stepping into a postcard.


Discover the enchanting Hamn Lighthouse in Skaland, Norway, a stunning landmark offering breathtaking views and rich maritime history.

Astrid was particularly fascinated by the lighthouse, asking a million questions about how it worked and who lived there. I tried my best to explain its history and purpose, drawing parallels to Icelandic sagas and seafaring tales. She loved the idea of a beacon guiding sailors through treacherous waters. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, chimed in with facts about the lighthouse's construction and its importance to maritime navigation. He always brings a different, yet equally valuable, perspective to our adventures.

The journey to a destination is as important as the destination itself.

After soaking in the views and snapping countless photos at Hamn Lighthouse, we were ready for our next adventure: conquering Sukkertoppen, also known as the Sugar Peak. This mountain promised panoramic views, and I was eager to experience it firsthand. The trailhead was easy to find, and the path was well-marked, though quite steep in places. Astrid, surprisingly, was a trooper, scrambling up the rocks with determination. Maximilian and I took turns carrying her when the climb got too challenging, but she mostly insisted on doing it herself. Her little legs are stronger than they look!


Explore Sukkertoppen in Hamn, Norway – a stunning hiking area with breathtaking landscapes and panoramic views for outdoor enthusiasts.

The hike up Sukkertoppen was a rewarding challenge. The views along the way were incredible, with glimpses of Hamn i Senja and the surrounding archipelago. The landscape was dotted with summer flowers, adding splashes of color to the rugged terrain. As we climbed higher, the views became even more spectacular. The midnight sun cast a warm glow over the landscape, creating a surreal and magical atmosphere.

Reaching the summit of Sukkertoppen was an exhilarating experience. The 360-degree views were simply breathtaking. We could see the Hamn i Senja archipelago, the neighboring mountains, and the vast expanse of the Bergsfjorden fjord. It felt like we were on top of the world. Astrid was thrilled, pointing out different landmarks and shouting with joy. We spent a good hour at the summit, soaking in the views and enjoying a well-deserved snack. I had packed some traditional Icelandic Skyr, which we devoured while gazing at the stunning scenery.

After descending from Sukkertoppen, we were all quite hungry. We decided to have lunch at Draugen Kro&Bar Pizzeria. The pizza was delicious, and the atmosphere was cozy and welcoming. Astrid loved her pepperoni pizza, while Maximilian and I opted for a vegetarian option with local toppings. It was the perfect way to refuel after our hike.


Experience culinary bliss at Draugen Kro & Bar Pizzeria in Medby - where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality.

In the late afternoon, we stopped by Pila Pub AS Skaland for a quick drink. It was a cozy little place, and we enjoyed chatting with some locals and experiencing the Norwegian hospitality. I tried a local beer, while Maximilian opted for a coffee. Astrid enjoyed a refreshing juice. It was a nice way to relax and unwind before heading back to our cottage.


Discover the charm of Pila Pub AS in Skaland, a cozy bar offering a delightful taste of Norwegian hospitality and local drinks in a friendly atmosphere.

For dinner, we decided to try Fjøsn Restaurant & Bar. The restaurant had a charming, rustic ambiance, and the menu featured local ingredients. I ordered the fresh fish, while Maximilian opted for the reindeer stew. Astrid, of course, chose the chicken nuggets. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was a perfect way to end a perfect day.


Discover authentic Norwegian flavors at Fjøsn Restaurant & Bar in Silsand - a delightful dining experience awaits you.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our adventures. Senja Island continues to amaze me with its natural beauty and unique charm. The Hamn Lighthouse and Sukkertoppen were definitely highlights, but the entire day was filled with unforgettable moments. The midnight sun added a magical touch, creating a surreal and enchanting atmosphere.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Hesten and Riven Trail Head, hopefully, the weather will be as kind to us as it was today. I’m particularly excited about Hesten, as I’ve heard the views are incredible. Maximilian is keen to tackle the Riven Trail, known for its challenging terrain. Astrid, as always, is up for anything, as long as there are snacks involved.

Before heading to bed, I spent some time knitting a traditional Icelandic sweater, a Lopapeysa. It's a way for me to stay connected to my roots, even when I'm far from home. The rhythmic clicking of the needles is soothing, and I find it helps me unwind after a long day of exploring. Plus, it's a practical hobby, as the sweaters are incredibly warm and perfect for the Nordic climate.

As I write this, the midnight sun is still shining brightly outside our window. It's hard to believe it's almost midnight. The endless daylight is both invigorating and disorienting. It's a reminder that we're in a special place, far removed from our everyday lives. I'm grateful for this opportunity to experience the magic of Senja Island with my family. It's a trip we'll cherish forever.

Senja, you've stolen a piece of my heart.

Until tomorrow,
Guðrún