Family Adventure on Senja Island

Summiting Senja: Hesten and Riven Trails

Today was all about embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Senja. With Astrid in tow and Maximilian navigating, we set out to conquer not one, but two of the island's most talked-about trails: Hesten and Riven. It was a day filled with breathtaking views, a healthy dose of exertion, and a well-deserved reward at a local brewery.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Senja Fjordhotell. I savored the fresh, local produce, knowing we'd need the energy for the day's adventures. Astrid, of course, was most excited about the waffles, while Maximilian enjoyed his usual strong coffee, preparing for the drives and hikes ahead. Our first stop was Hesten, a mountain known for its unparalleled views of the iconic Segla peak. The drive to Fjordgård, where the Hesten trailhead is located, was stunning in itself, winding through lush green valleys dotted with traditional Norwegian houses. The anticipation was palpable as we parked the car and began our ascent.

The Hesten trail, as many have noted, starts with a bit of a climb up what appears to be a ski slope. Luckily, in June, the slopes were green and lush, a far cry from the snow-covered runs they become in winter. Astrid, ever the energetic one, practically skipped ahead, her little legs pumping as she eagerly looked forward to reaching the top. Maximilian and I followed at a more leisurely pace, stopping occasionally to catch our breath and take in the ever-expanding views. The trail was well-marked with blue dots painted on the rocks, a reassuring sight as we ventured further into the wilderness.

As we climbed higher, the landscape transformed from gentle slopes to rocky terrain. There were even a few muddy patches, remnants of the recent rains, but nothing our hiking boots couldn't handle. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of wildflowers and the distant sound of the sea. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for being able to experience this incredible place with my family.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that challenge us, pushing us to our limits and revealing the hidden beauty that lies just beyond.

The final stretch to the summit of Hesten involved a bit of scrambling, which Astrid found particularly thrilling. I must admit, there were a few moments where I had to suppress my fear of heights, but the thought of the view from the top kept me going. And oh, what a view it was! As we reached the summit, the panorama unfolded before us in all its glory. Segla stood majestically in the distance, its jagged peaks piercing the sky, while the surrounding fjords glistened in the sunlight. It was a sight that truly took my breath away.


Explore the stunning hiking trails of Hesten in Fjordgard, Norway, where breathtaking views and nature await every adventurer.
We spent a good hour at the summit, soaking in the scenery and snapping countless photos. Astrid, of course, wanted to explore every nook and cranny, while Maximilian and I simply sat in silence, appreciating the moment. It was a perfect family moment, one that I knew we would cherish for years to come.

After descending from Hesten, we drove towards our next destination: the Riven Trail Head. Along the way, we stopped at BJA Holding AS for a quick lunch. It was a simple, no-frills kind of place, but the food was hearty and satisfying, just what we needed after our morning hike. Astrid devoured her fish and chips, while Maximilian and I enjoyed some traditional Norwegian fare.


Discover authentic Norwegian cuisine at BJA Holding AS in Kaldfarnes - where local flavors meet exceptional hospitality.
The Riven Trail Head offered a different kind of hiking experience. While Hesten was all about panoramic views and challenging climbs, Riven was a more gentle, family-friendly trail. The path wound through a lush forest, following the contours of the landscape. The air was thick with the scent of pine and damp earth, and the sunlight filtered through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere. The hike to Riven is known for being easily accessible, which was a welcome change after the climb to Hesten. The trail meandered gently upwards, rewarding us with lovely views without requiring too much exertion. It was perfect for Astrid, who was starting to feel a bit tired after our earlier adventure.


Explore the breathtaking trails of Riven Trail Head in Senja, Norway, where nature's beauty and adventure await every hiker.
As we walked, we kept an eye out for wildlife. The area around Riven is known for its diverse fauna, including reindeer and various bird species. While we didn't spot any reindeer, we did see several eagles soaring overhead, their majestic wings silhouetted against the sky. It was a reminder of the incredible natural beauty that surrounds us here on Senja.

The summit of Riven was less dramatic than Hesten, but it still offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape. We could see the island of Husøy in the distance, its colorful houses clustered together like a miniature city. We also spotted several other hiking trails, winding their way up the nearby mountains. It was a tempting sight, but we knew we had another important stop to make before the day was done.

After our hike on Riven, we decided to treat ourselves to some local craft beer at Senja Handbryggeri. I had read about this microbrewery and was eager to sample their creations. The brewery is located in a charming old school building in Øverbotn, adding to its unique appeal. We sampled a few of their beers, each named after local landmarks and traditions. My personal favorite was the Segla Kölsch, a light and refreshing brew that perfectly captured the essence of Senja. Maximilian, a fan of darker beers, enjoyed the Trælen Stout. Astrid, of course, stuck to juice, but she enjoyed exploring the brewery and learning about the beer-making process. It was fascinating to hear about their brewing process and how they incorporate local ingredients and traditions into their beers. The brewery itself had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of hiking.


Experience the unique flavors and craftsmanship of Senja Handbryggeri, a must-visit brewery in Vangsvik, Norway.
As the evening drew closer, we headed to Hamn i Senja, Senja Reiseliv (Senja Travel) for dinner at Senja Reiseliv. The restaurant offered a delicious menu of local specialties, including fresh seafood and reindeer stew. We dined while enjoying panoramic views of the harbor, reflecting on the incredible day we had just experienced. It was the perfect way to end our day of hiking and exploring. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting.


Experience the natural beauty and rich culture at Hamn i Senja - your gateway to unforgettable adventures in Norway.
Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Mefjordbotn Pier and visit Senja Husky Adventure AS. Astrid is particularly excited about meeting the huskies, and I'm looking forward to experiencing the unique charm of Mefjordbotn. But for now, I'm content to relax and reflect on the day's adventures. Senja continues to surprise and delight us at every turn, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Senja Handbryggeri definitely provided a perfect ending to a day filled with stunning views and physical activity. It was a great way to unwind and enjoy the local flavors of Senja. I'm already looking forward to our next adventure, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.