Family Adventure on Senja Island

Senja's Embrace: A Day of Discovery

Today was a day where Senja truly revealed its multifaceted charm. From the thrill of husky companionship to the tranquil beauty of Mefjordbotn Pier and the delightful tastes of local cuisine, it was a day filled with unforgettable moments. Astrid's laughter echoed through the crisp air, Maximilian's eyes sparkled with excitement, and even I, ever the librarian, felt a sense of adventure I hadn't known I possessed.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mefjordbotn Pier, where nature meets tranquility in the stunning landscapes of Senja, Norway.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Senja Matstudio. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of local flavors were the perfect way to start the day. I opted for the traditional Norwegian breakfast – a smørbrød with smoked salmon and a side of creamy rømmegrøt. It was absolutely delightful, a taste of the sea and the earth all in one bite. Astrid, of course, went for the simpler option of waffles with jam, but even she couldn't resist trying a bit of my salmon. Maximilian, ever the adventurous one, chose the reindeer sausage, declaring it a culinary experience.

After breakfast, we headed to Mefjordbotn Pier. The drive itself was stunning, with the road winding along the coastline, offering panoramic views of the fjords and the mountains. The pier jutted out into the serene waters, providing a perfect vantage point to soak in the landscape. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of the sea and the distant sound of seabirds. We took a leisurely stroll, hand in hand, marveling at the sheer beauty of the surroundings. Astrid, as always, was fascinated by the water, pointing out the different colors and the little boats bobbing gently in the harbor. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me, a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life in Hannover. The pier was indeed a hidden gem, offering a serene escape and a chance to connect with nature.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand expeditions, but in the quiet moments of connection with nature and loved ones.

Next on our itinerary was Senja Husky Adventure AS, an experience we had all been eagerly anticipating. As we arrived, we were greeted by Johnny, the owner, and a chorus of excited barks. The huskies were absolutely adorable, with their bright blue eyes and thick, fluffy fur. Astrid was immediately smitten, showering them with cuddles and kisses. I must admit, I was a bit apprehensive at first. I'm more accustomed to the quiet of libraries than the energy of a dog sledding camp. But Johnny's enthusiasm and the dogs' infectious joy quickly put me at ease.


Discover the thrill of dogsledding in the breathtaking landscapes of Senja Island, Norway with Senja Husky Adventure.

We were given warm snowsuits, boots, and mittens, and after a brief lesson on how to mush, we were ready to go. Maximilian, ever the daredevil, volunteered to be the musher, while Astrid and I settled into the sled. As we set off, the dogs surged forward with incredible power, their paws gliding effortlessly over the snow. The landscape blurred into a tapestry of white and green as we raced through the forest. Astrid's laughter filled the air, a sound that warmed my heart more than any winter gear could. Even I couldn't help but grin, feeling the thrill of the ride and the exhilaration of being surrounded by such magnificent creatures. It was an experience that transcended my everyday life, a moment of pure, unadulterated joy.

After our exhilarating husky adventure, we were all quite famished. We decided to have lunch at Senja By Heart - Restaurant, a place known for its dedication to local ingredients and traditional North Norwegian cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that perfectly complemented the surrounding landscape. We started with the fish soup, a creamy and flavorful concoction that warmed us from the inside out. For the main course, I opted for the whale, cooked to perfection and served with a side of roasted vegetables. It was a unique culinary experience, a taste of the Arctic that I will not soon forget. Maximilian chose the salmon, declaring it the best he had ever tasted. Astrid, predictably, ordered fish fingers, but even she admitted that the whale was quite delicious.


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

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to visit Senja Galleri og Rammeverksted, a local art gallery and framing workshop. I was particularly excited about this, as I have always been fascinated by Nordic art and craftsmanship. The gallery showcased a variety of works by local artists, from paintings and sculptures to intricate wood carvings and glasswork. I was particularly drawn to a series of landscape paintings, capturing the raw beauty and dramatic light of Senja. Maximilian, surprisingly, was quite taken with a collection of modern sculptures, admiring their abstract forms and innovative use of materials. Astrid, of course, was most interested in the colorful glasswork, exclaiming over the delicate shapes and vibrant hues.


Discover local artistry at Senja Galleri og Rammeverksted, a vibrant picture frame shop and art gallery in Finnsnes showcasing the best of regional talent.

In the evening, we treated ourselves to dinner at Storbrygga Spiseri. The restaurant was located right on the waterfront, offering stunning views of the fjord. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a cozy fireplace and friendly staff. We started with the Bokna fish, a local specialty made from Arctic skrei. It was a unique and flavorful dish, a testament to the ingenuity of North Norwegian cuisine. For the main course, I opted for the grilled cod, served with a side of roasted potatoes and a creamy dill sauce. It was absolutely divine, the cod perfectly cooked and the sauce adding a touch of elegance. Maximilian chose the reindeer steak, declaring it a culinary masterpiece. Astrid, ever the picky eater, settled for a simple pasta dish, but even she had to admit that the view was spectacular.


Experience local Norwegian cuisine with stunning fjord views at Storbrygga Spiseri in Skaland.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we had shared. From the thrill of the husky adventure to the tranquility of Mefjordbotn Pier and the delightful tastes of local cuisine, it was a day that had truly captured the essence of Senja. I am so grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful island with my family, creating memories that we will cherish for a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Ånderdalen National Park and hike up Husfjellet. I am particularly looking forward to Ånderdalen National Park, as I have heard that it is a place of incredible natural beauty, with lush forests, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Husfjellet, I am told, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, a perfect way to end our Senja adventure. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I am content to savor the memories of this perfect day.

As I sit here in our cozy cottage, the midnight sun casting a soft glow over the landscape, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Senja has truly captured my heart, and I know that I will carry its beauty and tranquility with me long after we have returned to Hannover. Perhaps I'll even find a way to incorporate some of the Nordic spirit into my work at the library, sharing the stories and traditions of this magical land with others. After all, isn't that what travel is all about – bringing a piece of the world back home with you?

I am also grateful that we remembered to pack our hiking boots and waterproof jackets, as they have been essential for our outdoor adventures. However, I am still kicking myself for forgetting the binoculars and bug spray. The binoculars would have been perfect for bird watching, and the bug spray would have saved us from some rather unpleasant mosquito bites. But alas, even the most organized librarian can make a mistake. I suppose it just adds to the adventure, a reminder that even in the most meticulously planned trips, there is always room for spontaneity and unexpected challenges.

Good night from Senja, and may your dreams be filled with husky adventures and pier reflections.