Top 5 Senja Day Trips: Explore Norway’s Hidden Gems

Top 5 Senja Day Trips: Explore Norway’s Hidden Gems

Senja Norway

So, planning a trip to Senja, that that amazing island in Northern Norway? It’s almost ridiculously scenic, yet a lot fewer people go there than to the Lofoten Islands. The lack of crowds is one reason I really love it! Figuring out the best way to spend your time can be tricky since there’s so much to see and do. That said, here are my top 5 day trip recommendations to seriously make the most of your visit. They range from scenic drives to hikes with insane views, that I’m pretty sure you’ll appreciate them.

1. The Scenic Route to Tungeneset and Ersfjord Beach

Tungeneset Senja

Okay, so this first one is really more of a leisurely drive that’s perfect for a relaxing day, especially if you love taking pictures. This route will take you along the northern coast of Senja, with stops at Tungeneset and Ersfjord Beach. It’s pretty simple and is great for travelers of all fitness levels. Anyway, you might want to make sure your camera’s charged, ’cause you’ll be wanting to stop at basically every viewpoint.

Tungeneset: The Iconic Pier

As a matter of fact, Tungeneset is maybe one of the most photographed spots on Senja, and very rightly so. The jagged, saw-tooth peaks of the Okshornan mountain range rise directly out of the sea, and a wooden boardwalk extends over the rocks, giving you a pretty unique viewing platform. Usually, you might have to jostle with others for space, but generally it’s way less crowded than similar viewpoints in Lofoten. Very much worth the short walk from the parking lot.

Ersfjord Beach: A Postcard-Perfect Cove

Ersfjord Beach Senja

Alright, so Ersfjord Beach is just a short drive from Tungeneset and the colorful houses clustered around this tiny cove are really photogenic. I mean, it’s seriously cute! A little sandy beach invites you for a stroll, or, in some cases, for the braver souls among us, a very, very quick dip in the frigid water! A cafe on the waterfront is also super handy, where you can stop for coffee and waffles with a view. Typically, there is limited parking though, so it might be an idea to arrive early, mostly during peak season.

2. Segla: Hike to the Most Famous Viewpoint

Segla Hiking Senja

The hike to Segla is almost like the quintessential Senja experience and you’ve probably seen photos of this pointy mountain that seems to jut straight out of the fjord, online. Even though the hike isn’t particularly long, it can be fairly steep in sections, and so it’s generally regarded as moderate. Typically, the view from the top is ridiculously rewarding, and really well worth the effort. You get a panoramic vista of the surrounding fjords, mountains, and islands. You’ll certainly see why it’s become such an iconic image of Senja.

What to Expect on the Trail

As a matter of fact, the trail begins near the village of Fjordgård. While it starts off pretty gently, it’s definitely not too long before it starts climbing pretty steeply uphill through birch forest and then out onto exposed rocky terrain. Anyway, the path is usually pretty well-marked, but solid hiking boots are basically vital, specifically since the terrain can be uneven and slippery, even when it is dry. Oh, and a windproof jacket. Let’s be frank, that can be a lifesaver at the top!

Alternative Views from Hesten

Hesten View of Segla Senja

Anyway, want a picture of Segla itself? Then maybe hike up to Hesten instead, and you get a totally unbeatable view of Segla’s dramatic profile. Though Hesten is pretty steep, for sure the overall climb is less strenuous than Segla. So that can be a good alternative if you’re maybe a little short on time or are looking for something a bit less taxing.

3. Ånderdalen National Park: Hiking Among Ancient Pines

So, if you fancy experiencing Senja’s interior, you could hike in Ånderdalen National Park, offering a pretty different landscape from the rugged coastline. That is, expect old-growth pine forests, bogs, and mountains. Really, you might have a chance to spot wildlife such as moose or reindeer.

Easy Trails for Everyone

Anderdalen National Park Senja

Often, there are several trails in the park that range in difficulty. Some of the shorter, flatter trails are actually really suitable for families with kids. Like, for instance, the trail to the Ånderdalen Lake is a rather gentle stroll that passes through old forest and offers you beautiful views of the lake and surrounding hills.

Challenging Hikes for Experienced Hikers

Though, naturally, if you’re searching for more of a challenge, several longer and steeper trails climb up into the mountains. Anyhow, that means you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the park. Make certain to wear waterproof boots, as there are some boggy sections. Oh, and also take a map and compass, as it actually easy to wander off-trail in the forest!

4. Hamn i Senja: A Picturesque Fishing Village

Hamn i Senja

As I was saying, Hamn i Senja is one of the oldest fishing villages in Senja. While the colorful buildings clustered around the harbor make it a really pretty spot for a stroll. I mean, the iconic Hamn i Senja resort is the focal point, and you really don’t have to be a guest there to have lunch or enjoy the scenery. Boat tours leave from the harbor, which almost always give you the opportunity to see the coastline from a pretty different perspective.

Explore the History

Like, anyway, this village has a rich history that dates back hundreds of years. While the tiny museum in the village presents information on the area’s fishing industry and maritime heritage, and it’s super interesting if you are at all curious about local history. In fact, walking around, you know, soaking up the atmosphere is like taking a real step back in time.

Northern Lights in Winter

If you do happen to be visiting Senja in the winter, then Hamn is a great place for potentially spotting the Northern Lights. The harbor’s location away from sources of light pollution make it actually ideal for viewing them. On clear winter nights, that that amazing Aurora Borealis often dances directly overhead.

5. Husfjellet: Panoramic Views Without the Crowds

Husfjellet Hiking Senja

As it turns out, if you’re after a seriously rewarding hike that isn’t as popular as Segla, you know, try Husfjellet, and it offers you a pretty awesome alternative. While this mountain provides amazing views of the surrounding fjords, including the Okshornan peaks and that that coastline, but that, anyway, without the Segla crowds.

A Gradual Ascent

Typically, the hike to Husfjellet starts from near the village of Skaland, anyway gradually climbs through forest and across open moorland, while the path is usually a bit boggy in places, specifically after rain, and as such you might have to be careful about it. Though the overall climb is quite moderate, that does means most fit hikers really shouldn’t have problems.

Photographing the Okshornan Peaks

Basically, from the summit of Husfjellet, you could well be treated to really panoramic views in basically all directions, however, you need to go there on a nice clear day. The view of the Okshornan peaks reflected in the calm waters of the fjord below is like really spectacular and also the ideal photo opportunity. It really makes a really big impression to everybody who is there to view. The photo looks gorgeous.