Solo Exploration of Senja Island's Natural Beauty

Senja's Spellbinding Shores

Today's journey was a deep dive into the heart of Senja's coastal magic. From the winding scenic routes to the charming local eateries and the promise of the Northern Lights, every moment felt like a scene from a Nordic fairytale. It’s days like these that remind me why I traded my Berlin office for a life of travel, seeking out the world’s hidden gems.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Senja Matstudio. The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air, a comforting scent that immediately made me feel at home. I savored every bite, knowing that a day of exploration awaited. The Matstudio is located beautifully by the Bergsfjord, which is known for great nature experiences. I had a chat with the owner Eirik, about the area and his food philosophy, before heading out. His passion for local ingredients and traditional recipes was clear, and I felt inspired to embrace the local culture even more.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off to explore the Nasjonal Turistveg Senja, the Scenic Route Senja. This route is a 102 km long drive along the rugged northwest coast of the island. The road twisted and turned, revealing breathtaking vistas of steep mountains plunging into the ocean. I made frequent stops, camera in hand, capturing the dramatic landscapes that unfolded before me. The route meanders along fjords and mountains, taking you through the most beautiful landscapes of Senja. The raw beauty of Senja was on full display, and I found myself lost in the moment, grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural splendor.


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

The beauty of Senja lies not just in its landscapes, but in the way it makes you feel small yet connected to something vast and timeless.

One of the highlights of the day was Trælvika View. As I approached, the panoramic vistas of the rugged coastline took my breath away. The fresh sea breeze and the sound of gentle waves created an idyllic atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and reflection. I spent a good hour simply soaking in the scenery, watching the vibrant colors of the landscape change as the sun moved across the sky. The area is also known for it's diverse wildlife.


Discover the breathtaking vistas of Trælvika View on Senja, Norway – a stunning tourist attraction for nature lovers and photographers alike.

For lunch, I stopped at Segla Grill and Pub in Fjordgård. This cozy spot is known for its delicious fish and chips and welcoming atmosphere. I ordered the fish and chips, of course, and sat by the window, enjoying the view of the fjord. The fish was perfectly cooked, the batter crispy and light, and the chips were just the right amount of salty. It was the perfect comfort food after a morning of exploration. It is a folk eatery with burgers in all shapes, and with souvenirs that the tourists like.


Discover mouthwatering grilled dishes with stunning fjord views at Segla Grill and Pub in Fjordgard.

As the day wore on, I decided to treat myself to a local brew at Pila Pub AS Skaland. This charming pub had a warm and cozy atmosphere, with a great selection of beers and friendly staff. I chatted with some locals, learning about the history of Skaland and the traditions of Senja. The pub is known for it's pizza, and have live music sometimes. It was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with the people who call those places home.


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.

Dinner was at Fjøsn Restaurant & Bar, located at the Aurora Borealis Observatory. The restaurant is in an old barn from 1967, with a New York Loft inspired design. The setting was picturesque, with huge windows offering views of the surrounding landscape. The menu featured local delicacies and fresh produce, and I opted for a traditional Norwegian dish. The flavors were rich and satisfying, and the ambiance of the restaurant was perfect for a relaxing evening. The building used to be a working goat barn.


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

As darkness fell, I ventured out in search of the Northern Lights. I found a secluded spot away from the town, and waited patiently. The sky was clear, and the stars twinkled brightly. And then, it happened. A faint green glow appeared on the horizon, slowly growing in intensity. The Northern Lights danced across the sky, swirling and shimmering in a breathtaking display of natural beauty. It was a moment I will never forget, a reminder of the magic that exists in the world, and a fitting end to a day of coastal dreams.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Kongsneshaugen and the Bergsbotn utsiktsplattform. I’m also hoping to visit Lillevik Art, a local shop, and enjoy meals at Skagi Senja hotel & lodge - Flo bord og bar, Senjastua, and Mefjord Brygge. I'm excited to see what new adventures and breathtaking views await me.

Senja continues to surprise and delight me at every turn. It's a place where nature reigns supreme, where the pace of life slows down, and where you can truly connect with the beauty of the world around you. I feel grateful for every moment spent on this magical island, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Perhaps Lena and Sophia would appreciate this place too, maybe next year we can come here all together.