Sommarøy
Quaint Fishing Village in Norway blessed with visits from Orcas and Northern Lights
Sommarøy is a natural gem located on the outer coast of Tromsø’s west side, known locally as yttersia. This vibrant coastal community has long traditions of fishing and hunting, and today remains a lively village surrounded by dramatic Arctic seascapes.
Just a 45-minute drive from Tromsø, Sommarøy is a paradise for outdoor adventures. The small island is home to around 400 residents and to the well-known Sommarøy Arctic Hotel. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy scenic coastal walks, berry picking and beachcombing along the island’s striking white sand beaches.
In winter, Sommarøy becomes a peaceful Arctic retreat. Guests can relax by the fireplace at Sommarøy Arctic Hotel, play cards or simply watch the dark polar skies while waiting for the Northern Lights to appear.
The island’s white sandy beaches, often dusted with snow in winter, create a remarkable contrast with the surrounding fjords and mountains. After a day exploring the windswept coastline, visitors can unwind in a traditional sauna or wooden hot tub overlooking the sea before enjoying an excellent dinner featuring fresh coastal ingredients.
Many of our past travellers have experienced the unforgettable thrill of watching the Northern Lights here:
Right outside our hotel we watched shades of green, sometimes with hints of pink, shifting and dancing across the night sky. At times the lights faded almost completely before suddenly lighting up the whole sky again, bright enough to cast shadows on the snowy ground. After our first glimpses of the aurora earlier in the journey through Lapland, this spectacular display was the perfect finale to our adventure from Finland to Northern Norway.
Continue exploring more about Norway:
- Travel articles and stories
- Norway travel packages
- Tromsø info and travel packages
- Northern Lights journeys
- Lofoten travel packages
