Family Adventure on Senja Island

Senja's Embrace: A Family's Midnight Sun Adventure

Our journey to Senja Island began with a sense of anticipation, a blend of excitement and the unknown that only a new adventure can bring. Leaving Hannover behind, Maximilian, Astrid, and I embarked on this Nordic escapade, eager to immerse ourselves in the legendary landscapes of Northern Norway. What awaited us was more than just breathtaking scenery; it was an experience that resonated with the soul, a reminder of the raw beauty and tranquility that our world holds.

The flight to Tromsø was smooth, and the subsequent drive to Senja was nothing short of spectacular. The roads snaked through fjords and alongside mountains, each turn revealing a vista more stunning than the last. I couldn't help but feel a sense of homecoming, a connection to my Icelandic roots as we traversed this Nordic paradise. Even Astrid, usually restless during long journeys, was captivated by the views, her little face pressed against the car window as she exclaimed at every new sight.

Our first stop was the NASJONAL TURISTVEG Senja, the scenic route that promised to be the backbone of our Senja adventure. And it did not disappoint. The road from Botnhamn to Gryllefjord, with detours to Husøy and Mefjordvær, offered an outer alternative to the mainland route. The dramatic mountains plunging into the ocean were a sight to behold. The steep rock faces and the villages clinging to the narrow strip between the mountains and the sea created a breathtaking panorama. It was like driving through a painting, each scene carefully crafted by nature itself. This drive reminded me of the winding roads of Ísafjörður, where I spent my childhood, and filled me with a sense of nostalgia.


Explore Senja's scenic route for stunning coastal views, majestic mountains, and a unique Norwegian adventure amidst nature's untouched beauty.

The journey, not the destination, is the reward.

Our first culinary experience on Senja was at Senja By Heart - Restaurant for breakfast. The cozy atmosphere and the traditional Norwegian fare were a delightful introduction to the local cuisine. We savored every bite, from the freshly baked bread to the creamy skyr, fueling ourselves for the day ahead. It was a perfect start, setting the tone for the culinary adventures that awaited us.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Senja By Heart - where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

Next on our itinerary was the Gryllefjord Viewpoint. The drive to Gryllefjord was an experience in itself, with winding roads and stunning coastal views. The village, known for its scenic harbor and vibrant fishing culture, exuded a sense of tranquility that was immediately calming. From the viewpoint, we could see the charming harbor and the surrounding mountains, a vista that seemed straight out of a postcard. I imagined the countless fishermen who had set sail from this very harbor, their lives intertwined with the rhythm of the sea. According to some travel bloggers, there is also a short but steep hike to a scenic viewpoint of the beautiful coastline and mountains above the small town of Gryllefjord, called Glæret, that you can take while waiting for the ferry to Andenes or just to enjoy the sunset views.


Discover the stunning panoramic vistas at Gryllefjord Viewpoint, a must-see destination for nature lovers in Norway.

For lunch, we stopped at Mefjord Brygge, a restaurant nestled in the picturesque village of Mefjordvær. The seafood was incredibly fresh, a testament to the island's rich maritime heritage. Maximilian, a connoisseur of all things seafood, declared it one of the best meals he had ever had. Astrid, surprisingly, devoured a plate of grilled salmon, a testament to the restaurant's culinary prowess. As we ate, we watched the boats bobbing gently in the harbor, the sun glinting off the water, and felt a sense of contentment wash over us.


Experience breathtaking views and authentic Norwegian hospitality at Mefjord Brygge in scenic Senjahopen.

Our afternoon was dedicated to exploring Tungeneset, a headland offering a fabulous view of the Devil's Teeth (Okshornan) mountains. The wooden walkway leading to the rocky beach was a marvel of Nordic design, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape. The view of the Okshornan peaks, jagged and imposing, was simply breathtaking. I spent a long time capturing the scene with my camera, trying to encapsulate the raw beauty of this place. Astrid, ever the explorer, delighted in splashing in the small ponds along the coast, her laughter echoing against the backdrop of the majestic mountains. The information I read about Tungeneset mentioned that the railings by the carpark are lit up in winter, and that the structure makes its way down towards the barbacue-area, located on the costal rocks. Also, the first 35m of the structure is a concrete ramp following the slope between the road and the coastal rock, and at the end of the concrete ramp, there is a small viewpoint which is the safest place to stop on days with bad weather.


Explore Tungeneset, a breathtaking tourist attraction on Senja Island, where rugged beauty meets serene coastal views and iconic mountain peaks.

Before dinner, we made a detour to Gammelbutikken i Skrolsvik, an old general store that now serves as a museum, souvenir shop, and café. Stepping inside was like stepping back in time. The original furnishings from 1925, the shelves stocked with old-fashioned candies and handcrafted goods, and the aroma of freshly baked pastries created a nostalgic atmosphere. We bought some local crafts as souvenirs and enjoyed coffee and waffles, soaking in the charm of this unique place. The store, built sometime in the 1870s, once served as a vital hub for the local fishing community, providing everything from food and equipment to clothing and fishing gear. It even functioned as an office for the local fish landing factory and shipping agent, with the second floor serving as accommodation for fishermen. I imagined the countless stories these walls could tell, the lives that had passed through this humble establishment. It was a reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness of the people who had shaped this island.


Discover the hidden gem of Gammelbutikken i Skrolsvik, where history, art, and local crafts come alive in the heart of Senja.

As evening approached, we headed to Salteriet Restaurant & Bar for dinner. Located at the far end of the Mefjord in Senjahopen, the restaurant offered a cozy and informal atmosphere, perfect for a family meal. The chefs focused on local food and Northern Norwegian traditions, with a creative twist. We savored dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, each bite a celebration of the island's culinary heritage. The restaurant itself was adorned with old objects and pictures from Mefjordvær, offering a glimpse into the area's rich coastal history. As we dined, we reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Senja Island.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Salteriet Restaurant & Bar in Senjahopen – where local flavors meet breathtaking coastal views.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on the incredible beauty and tranquility of Senja Island. The midnight sun painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, casting a magical glow over the landscape. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the simple joys in life. As we headed back to our cottage, we couldn't help but feel excited about the adventures that awaited us tomorrow. Ånderdalen National Park and Husfjellet beckoned, promising more breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences. We were also considering visiting Hugos Pub, and maybe enjoying a beer there.

Senja Island had already captured our hearts, and we knew that this was just the beginning of an unforgettable family adventure. I am also grateful that we did not forget any of our TripEssentials, even though I was close to forgetting the camera. I am also regretting forgetting the binoculars for bird watching, but I guess that will have to wait for another trip. As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I am filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. Senja, with its raw beauty and tranquil charm, has already left an indelible mark on our souls, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Ånderdalen National Park and hike Husfjellet, weather permitting. I've heard the views from Husfjellet are simply stunning, and I'm eager to capture them with my camera. We'll also be sure to sample some local cuisine at Senjastua for breakfast, Storbrygga Spiseri for lunch and The Fat Cod for dinner, and perhaps even visit Hugo's Pub for a taste of the local nightlife.