Norways Arctic Islands & Mountainous Vistas

Rosyth is in good proximity to the heartlands of Scotland, and many historic attractions are within an hours drive of Rosyth. Also within easy reach of Rosyth is the city of Edinburgh. You can explore this historic city, experiencing the famous Military tattoo, the museum of Scotland, as well as Edinburgh castle itself.

A remote little town with a long straggling main street and the principal settlement of Vestvagoy, one of the mountainous archipelago of the 70-mile long Lofoten Island chain – whose serenely beautiful seascapes and fjord waters draw many summer visitors to this idyllic corner of Norway. Composed of some of the world’s oldest rocks, divided by fjords during the Ice Age, the islands are the setting of fertile farmlands and a jagged coastline dotted with fishing villages and ancient rocks – rising sheer from the sea to over 3,000 feet.

Svolvær, the de facto capital of Norway’s rugged Lofoten archipelago, is a small, yet vibrant town situated on the picturesque southern coast of Austvågøya Island.

With its pretty harbour, overlooking the beautiful Vestfjord, and spectacular scenes of steep mountains, gorgeous beaches and sheltered bays, Svolvær is a haven for visitors seeking exciting hiking and climbing adventures, as well as artists attracted to the town’s picture-perfect location.

The town itself, which plays a major role in the success of Lofoten’s thriving fishing industry, is developing at a rapid rate. In contrast to the unspoilt landscapes surrounding the town, the centre of Svolvær is a jumble of modern buildings and attractions. There are plenty of shops, trendy cafés, restaurants and a collection of interesting museums including the Lofoten War Museum, and galleries such as the Foto Galleri and Nordnorsk Kunstnersenter, that exhibit works from artists inspired by the scenic delights of Svolvær and Lofoten.

The island city of Tromsø is one of northern Norway’s true delights. Rich with neo-classical architecture, the city known as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’ contains the largest number of wooden houses in Northern Norway, and its old world charm makes it a joy to explore.

A major cultural hub above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is famed as a viewing point for the colourful Northern Lights that often light up the night sky. The city’s most recognisable landmark is the must-visit Arctic Cathedral. Built in 1965, the cathedral’s distinctive iceberg-shaped design was inspired by the landscapes of Northern Norway and features a beautiful glass mosaic.

The many museums and galleries in the city include the Perspektivet Museum – set in a neo-classical building built in 1838 that has exhibits from Tromsø’s past, plus the Art Museum of Northern Norway and the Mack Brewery. Tromsø is also home to Polaria, an Arctic aquarium that is popular with locals and tourists alike. The aquarium’s tanks are full of Arctic fish species, and the friendly bearded seals always delight the visiting crowds.

Tromsø, and the stunning landscapes that surround it, are best viewed from the top of the Storsteinen Mountain, which stands 420 metres above sea level. Accessible via cable car, the peak is easy to reach and one of the most popular spots on the edge of the city.

Sortland, the largest town of the beautiful Vesterålen archipelago, is one of Northern Norway’s most unique destinations.

Nicknamed ‘Blue Town’, Sortland is almost entirely painted in various shades of blue, thanks to any idea put forward by artist Bjorn Elvenes at the start of the new millennium. Elvenes proposed that – with the help of other local artists and residents – Sortland should become a living 3D painting, and today the town’s mix of architecture, comprising Swiss style wood, concrete and glass structures, is an exhibit of his vision. It’s worth exploring the town to see how the blue colour scheme is developing alone, though there are plenty of attractions such as interesting art exhibitions, a beautiful early 20th century church and the pretty downtown, where you can enjoy ‘Writings on a Field of Blue’.

Visiting Sortland offers chances to seek-out Vesterålen’s natural treasures, too. Rugged, unspoilt countryside landscapes and miles of gorgeous island coastline are within reach, while the archipelago and its surrounding waters are also home to diverse wildlife, from seals and seabirds to whales. In the summer months it is possible to experience the magical midnight sun here; and in the winter, visitors might be lucky enough to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.

Take a tour on the Setesdal Vintage Railway, or go on a scenic coastal drive of the area, passing through the old town. There may also be opportunities to see views over the Kristiansand Fjord, or visit the Vest-Agder open air County Museum.

Rosyth is in good proximity to the heartlands of Scotland, and many historic attractions are within an hours drive of Rosyth. Also within easy reach of Rosyth is the city of Edinburgh. You can explore this historic city, experiencing the famous Military tattoo, the museum of Scotland, as well as Edinburgh castle itself.