Midnight Sun Adventures
The Narvik region located just above the Arctic Circle at 68 degrees north, is home to one of nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles: the midnight sun. From late May to mid-July, the sun never dips below the horizon, bathing the region in an enchanting golden glow. This continuous daylight transforms the fjords, mountains, and skies into a canvas of vibrant yellow, orange, and red hues, creating an unforgettable Arctic experience.
What is the Midnight Sun
The midnight sun is a natural phenomenon that occurs during the summer in places south of the Antarctic Circle and north of the Arctic Circle – including the Narvik region located at 68 degrees north.
The earth is rotating at a tilted axis relative to the sun, and during the summer months, the North Pole is angled towards our star. That’s why, for several weeks, the sun never sets above the Arctic Circle. Here, the sun doesn’t set between May 24th and mid July.
For Narvik, this means uninterrupted daylight and an endless opportunity to embrace outdoor adventures without the pressure of time. Whether it’s an evening hike or midnight fishing, the region’s luminous nights provide the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories.
Hike to new heights
Discover the magic of the midnight sun from some of the region’s most iconic viewpoints. The granite peaks of Efjord, Stefjord, Skjomen, The Snolke Cabin and the mountains encircling Narvik are beloved by both locals and visitors. As you climb, breathtaking panoramas reveal themselves, culminating in a spectacular display of sunlight illuminating the landscape. Guided evening hikes with expert guides offer an incredible way to fully experience the magic of the midnight sun.
Golf under the midnight sun
Skjomen Golfpark offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to play golf under the midnight sun. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or trying the sport for the first time, this experience combines the joy of the game with the serenity of the betutiful Skjomen fjord. Tee off at midnight and watch your ball fly against a backdrop of glowing skies. The atmosphere and pristine course make it a must-try activity for visitors.
Camping under the glow
Camping under the midnight sun is an experience like no other. Ballangen Camping, Elvegård Fjordcamp and Øse Camping offer ideal spots to immerse yourself in nature. With modern facilities, spacious sites, and proximity to serene local beaches or lakes, these campsites provide a perfect base for marveling at the sun’s never-ending glow. As you settle in, the stillness of the Arctic night combined with the radiant light creates a truly serene atmosphere.
Adventures on the fjords
Few activities rival the thrill of fishing in the fjords beneath the never-setting sun. The calm waters, vibrant skies, and quiet serenity make it an experience to treasure. Rent a boat from Elvegård Fjordcamp, Garsnes Brygge, Foldvik Bryggeferie, or Ballangen Camping, or paddle out in a kayak to uncover the fjords’ hidden beauty. The play of colors reflecting on the water is nothing short of mesmerizing. For an added adventure, join a guided boat tour to learn more about the region's marine life and history while soaking in the midnight sun.
More Midnight Sun activities
The midnight sun also allows for unique cultural and recreational experiences. Many local events, such as music festivals and community gatherings, take advantage of the endless daylight to create a festive atmosphere. Visitors can also explore the surrounding areas by bike, with trails ranging from scenic coastal paths to challenging mountain routes. Photography enthusiasts will find the golden light perfect for capturing dramatic landscapes and wildlife.
Visit Narvik during the Midnight Sun
The midnight sun season isn’t just about the extraordinary landscapes; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that thrives on nature and adventure. From hiking and camping to fishing and golfing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The region’s vibrant community and stunning surroundings invite you to seize the night and create memories that will last a lifetime. Make Narvik your next summer destination and bask in the endless light of the Arctic summer. Let the midnight sun guide you through unforgettable adventures and breathtaking vistas that only this part of the world can offer.
Photographing the midnight sun
The golden glow is what many people remember most about their midnight sun experiences. This tends to accentuate colours and elongate shadows, which provides plenty of scope for dramatic and expressive photography.
- Since colours are more vivid in the midnight sun, it is a good idea to keep images simple, concentrating on two or three colours at the most to avoid a messy image.
- Foreground images can be used to frame subjects in mid and deep field, creating a better sense of three-dimensionality.
- To maximize the impact of the light sky on a landscape, compose your picture by keeping the horizon a third of a way from the bottom; this will help your camera to expose properly.