Solo Exploration of Senja Island's Natural Beauty

Chasing the Northern Lights: Day One on Senja Island

After months of anticipation, my solo adventure to Senja Island has finally begun! Leaving Berlin behind, I embarked on a journey to the serene landscapes of Northern Norway, a place I've dreamt of exploring for years. The crisp air, the promise of the Northern Lights, and the rugged beauty of Senja—it's all incredibly exciting. Today was about settling in, soaking up the atmosphere, and getting a taste of what this enchanting island has to offer.

The journey itself was smooth, with a flight from Berlin to Tromsø followed by a scenic ferry ride to Senja. The ferry offered stunning views of the Norwegian coastline, a perfect prelude to the adventures that awaited. The air is noticeably colder here compared to Berlin; November in Senja brings temperatures that hover around 4°C during the day and can drop to -2°C at night. I was glad I packed plenty of warm layers! The chance of rain is also high this month, so I made sure my waterproof gear was easily accessible.

My first stop was Tungeneset, a viewpoint known for its unique footbridge and stunning views of the Okshornan mountain range, often called the 'Devil's Teeth'. The drive there was breathtaking, with fjords and snow-dusted peaks at every turn. The Siberian larch footbridge at Tungeneset was especially impressive, allowing me to walk right over the rocks and admire the views. Although it was a bit cloudy, the vista of the jagged Okshornan peaks piercing the sky was truly captivating. I can imagine how incredible it must look when the sunset lights them up in gold, or when the Northern Lights dance above them.


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

Sometimes, the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn't know you needed.

Next, I decided to challenge myself with a hike up Husfjellet. Described as a moderate hike, I felt ready for it. The trail starts near Skaland, and even in November, it was surprisingly accessible. The hike took me through a mix of forest tracks and boggy meadows. The trail wasn't too difficult, but there were definitely some muddy sections, so I was grateful for my hiking boots. As I ascended, the views opened up, revealing the stunning Bergsfjorden dotted with small islands.

Reaching the summit of Husfjellet was an exhilarating experience. The panoramic views were simply breathtaking, and I could see for miles in every direction. Despite the cloudy weather, the scenery was magnificent. I could spot Tungeneset in the distance and the vast expanse of the Norwegian Sea. The wind was quite strong at the top, so I didn't linger for too long, but the sense of accomplishment and the beauty of the landscape made it all worthwhile.


Explore the breathtaking Husfjellet in Senja, Norway – a hiker's paradise offering stunning views and unforgettable adventures in nature's embrace.

After my invigorating hike, it was time to indulge in some local cuisine. For breakfast, I stopped by Fjøsn Restaurant & Bar in Husøy. Located in a renovated barn, the restaurant has a rustic yet modern charm. Although some reviews mention mixed experiences with their burgers and pizzas , I opted for a traditional Norwegian dish, eager to taste the local flavors. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, a perfect spot to relax and refuel after a morning of exploration.


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

Lunch was at The Fat Cod in Skaland, a restaurant highly recommended for its fresh seafood and stunning fjord views. Housed in a former fishery, the restaurant exudes a rich sense of local history. I savored a delicious cod dish, perfectly cooked and seasoned, while enjoying the picturesque view of Steinfjorden. The restaurant prides itself on using local ingredients, and you can truly taste the freshness in every bite.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at The Fat Cod in Skaland, where fresh seafood meets stunning fjord views.

Before dinner, I made a quick stop at Joker Husøy, a local grocery store, to pick up a few essentials. I was curious to try some locally produced fish, and the store had a good selection, including their own hot-smoked spiced salmon. It's always interesting to see what local products are available and to support the community.


Explore Joker Husøy – a charming grocery store in Senja offering local delights and international favorites for your culinary adventures.

Dinner was at Senja By Heart - Restaurant, where I was excited to experience more of Senja's culinary offerings. The restaurant is known for its intimate, Nordic-inspired venue and its passion for showcasing North Norwegian food. I decided to try the Fried Cod with Skagen sauce, and it was absolutely delightful. The flavors were rich and authentic, providing a true taste of Senja. The staff were friendly and attentive, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.


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

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on my first impressions of Senja Island. The dramatic landscapes, the fresh, local cuisine, and the welcoming atmosphere have already captivated me. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, with plans to explore Ånderdalen National Park and the Skaland waterfall. Despite the cold weather and limited sunshine , the beauty of Senja shines through, making it a truly special place. I am especially looking forward to capturing some photos of the Skaland waterfall.

I also made a mental note to purchase a portable phone charger and binoculars. I realized how much I missed having them today, especially during the hike when I wanted to capture more photos and observe the wildlife from a distance. It’s a small oversight, but one that I'll rectify soon to enhance my exploration.

For now, it's time to rest and prepare for another day of adventure. Senja, you've already stolen a piece of my heart.