This Arctic island has 700km of untamed coastline, with sharp mountain peaks rising from deep fjords. Small fishing villages dot the shore, where winter brings snow and summer sees 24-hour daylight.
Senja, Norway's second-largest island, lies above the Arctic Circle. From the 639-meter Segla mountain to the white sand of Ersfjord Beach, the island's landscape ranges from steep peaks to sheltered bays. You can watch the Northern Lights between September and April, while summer nights stay bright with the Midnight Sun phenomenon.
Getting to Senja
Fly to Tromsø Airport, then drive approximately 3 hours to reach Senja. The Gisund Bridge at Finnsnes connects the island to mainland Norway. You'll need a car to explore Senja, as buses run only a few times per day between major settlements.
Best Seasons for Visiting
The hiking season runs from mid-June to late September, when snow has melted from most trails and daytime temperatures reach 10-15°C. Northern Lights appear from late September to mid-April, with peak visibility during the darkest months of December and January. From late May to late July, the sun doesn't set, while from early December to mid-January, it doesn't rise above the horizon.
Mountain Hiking Trails
The Segla mountain trail climbs 639 meters over 4.5 kilometers, with a steep final ascent. The Husfjellet trail extends 5 kilometers with 632 meters of elevation gain, leading to views over Mefjord. At Sukkertoppen, a 3-kilometer trail rises 456 meters above sea level. The pine forests in Ã…nderdalen National Park contain trees over 600 years old, with a network of marked paths ranging from 2 to 8 kilometers.
Senja's Scenic Route
The 102-kilometer National Tourist Route follows the northwestern coast. Stop at the Tungeneset walkway, a wooden pathway extending into the ocean with views of the jagged Okshornan peaks (Devil's Teeth). The Bergsbotn viewing platform sits 278 meters above sea level, stretching 44 meters out from the mountainside over Bergsfjord.
Beaches and Fjords
Ersfjord Beach spans 300 meters of white sand between granite peaks. The beach's distinctive gold-plated toilet building serves as both a functional facility and an art installation. Water temperatures reach 15°C in summer, making swimming possible. Local operators run guided kayak trips through the fjords from June to September.
Winter Activities
From December to March, snow covers the landscape and temperatures range from -5°C to -15°C. Senja Husky Adventure runs 2-hour and full-day dog sledding trips with teams of Siberian huskies. The minimal light pollution and long nights create ideal conditions for photographing the Northern Lights, particularly from elevated viewpoints like Bergsbotn platform.
