The Northern Lights Road

One of the highlights of the Northern Lights season is a captivating drive by the Northern Light Road in the nature beauty of Swedish Lapland.

If you visit the northern part of Norway, the Northern Lights Road is a stunning drive in the northernmost part of the Nordic region. 

The Northern Lights Route, also known as the Northern Lights Road or "Nordlysruten" in Norwegian, is a scenic drive through northern Norway. It offers travellers stunning views of the Arctic landscape and, if conditions are right, the chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis).

The route typically encompasses roads that traverse regions known for their dark skies and optimal conditions for viewing the Northern Lights. Some places along the route may include Tromsø, Alta, and the Lofoten Islands.

While the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and can't be guaranteed, embarking on a road trip along the Northern Lights Route allows travellers to explore some of Norway's most breathtaking scenery, including fjords, mountains, coastal landscapes, and picturesque villages.

Many travellers drive the Northern Lights Route during the winter when the nights are long and dark, increasing the chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis. However, the route is also scenic year-round, offering different experiences depending on the season, whether the midnight sun in summer or the snowy landscapes of winter.

Overall, the Northern Lights Route is not a single road but a network of highways and scenic byways that wind through Norway's Arctic regions. It provides an unforgettable journey for those seeking natural beauty and the chance to witness one of the world's most spectacular natural phenomena.

 

 


Northern Lights season

Of course, you will have to be aware of the season to see the Northern Lights, but if you have the great opportunity to watch them, you have the right choice here along this road from September to April.

 

 


Top destination on the Northern Lights road

  • Tromsø: Known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," Tromsø is a vibrant city in northern Norway and a popular base for Northern Lights tours and excursions.

  • Alta: Situated in Finnmark County, Alta is renowned for its dark skies and optimal conditions for viewing the Northern Lights. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Alta Rock Art, the Northern Lights Cathedral, and participate in various Aurora Borealis activities.

  • Lofoten Islands:  This picturesque archipelago is famous for its dramatic scenery, including towering mountains, white sandy beaches, and fishing villages. The Lofoten Islands offer excellent opportunities to view the Northern Lights, particularly during winter.

  • Senja:  Often referred to as "Norway in Miniature," Senja boasts stunning landscapes ranging from fjords and mountains to beaches and fishing villages. It's a lesser-known destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.

  • North Cape (Nordkapp): Located on the island of Magerøya, North Cape is the northernmost point in Europe accessible by road. Visitors can marvel at the Arctic landscapes and, if lucky, witness the Northern Lights dancing over the Barents Sea.

  • Kirkenes:  Situated near the Russian border, Kirkenes offers unique Northern Lights experiences, including dog sledging, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. It's also a starting point for Arctic cruises and expeditions.

  • Narvik: Nestled between mountains and fjords, Narvik is a charming town known for its outdoor activities and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy skiing, hiking, and, with luck, catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

These destinations along the Northern Lights Route in Norway offer travellers a chance to explore the Arctic landscapes and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Aurora Borealis.



Getting there

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Coordinates
  • Lattitude: 67.834815
  • Longitude: 20.283701