Arctic Coast from Tromsø to Svolvær

Embark on an exhilarating cycling adventure in the majestic landscapes of northern Norway with this meticulously crafted bike package. Journey along the Arctic coast from Tromsø to Svolvær, perfect for those who relish a moderately challenging cycling holiday. Inhale deeply, filling your lungs with crisp sea air, and prepare for an unforgettable ride through a captivating island landscape, the wind playfully tousling your hair.

Your cycling odyssey commences in Tromsø, and as you approach Sommarøy, you will be greeted by the vast expanse of the ocean. Continue along the outer edges of Senja, where towering mountains evoke images of trolls turned to stone beneath the mystical midnight sun. Andøya presents a delightful contrast, with its gentle valleys, marshlands, and rugged peaks. The final stretch takes you from Sortland to Svolvær, aboard the Hurtigruten through Raftsundet, where you’ll marvel at the renowned Trollfjord. The journey concludes with a comfortable stay in Svolvær, having traversed an impressive 305 km in total.

During your journey you will experience the breathtaking beauty of the fjords, with ferries providing an integral part of the adventure. Please note that ferry costs are not included in the package (approximately 500 NOK per person for the entire trip). Tickets is purchased on board the ferries.

Helmet, pannier, bicycle look, toolset with a patch kit, necessary keys for adjustments, replacement tube, pump, lights mounted on the helmet and reflective vest is included in the bike rental. Extra for the E-Bikes: Charger (no extra battery).

This bike package features daily stages of 30-70 km and is ideal for well-conditioned cyclists. Weather conditions may intensify the experience. For safety, we recommend cycling in pairs or groups.

Photo: Frank Andreassen, nordnorge.com

Day 1 - Arrival Tromsø

hotelQuality Saga Hotel, Tromsø

Tromsø, the vibrant capital of northern Norway, is situated just shy of 70 degrees north. Here, you can bask in the mesmerizing midnight sun from May 19th to July 27th. Your adventure begins with a comfortable stay in this charming city.

Day 2 - Cycling Tromsø - Sommarøy

hotelSommarøy Arctic Hotel, Sommarøy

restaurantBreakfast, self-packed lunch and dinner

directions_bike62 km

The day starts with delivery and adaptation of any rental bikes. Cycle around the southern tip of Tromsøya and cross the longest bridge in Northern Norway, stretching 1.2 km long and 45 m high, to reach Kvaløya Island. Enjoy a pleasant ride along Kvaløysletta's flat cycling path before tackling the steep ascent to Kattfjordeidet, approximately 150 meters above sea level.

From this vantage point, admire the majestic peaks soaring up to 1040 meters high, and then embark on a leisurely ride along the fjord towards Sommarøy. This vibrant coastal community thrives on fishing and tourism, boasting charming boathouses, piers, and repurposed fish farms. For the active, an evening trip up on Hillesøytoppen is recommended, with a great view over the open sea and south towards Senja. Dinner and overnight stay at Sommarøy.

Day 3 - Cycling Sommarøy - Brensholmen - Mefjordvær

hotelMefjord Brygge, Mefjordvær

restaurantBreakfast, self-packed lunch and dinner

directions_bike41 km

Photo: Werner Harstad , Statens vegvesen

This day start with a 7 km cycling to the Brensholmen ferry berth. From there, board the summer ferry to Botnhamn on Senja Island. Upon arriving in Botnhamn, prepare for a moderate ascent over a small pass, approximately 120 meters above sea level. Beyond the pass, you will enjoy delightful downhill ride along the fjord as you head towards Senjahopen and Mefjordvær.

As you reach Senja's outer edge, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscape of sheer mountains that dive directly into the sea. The narrow road meanders in and out of fjords, revealing pristine, crystal-clear, and refreshingly cold waters. The day is concluded with dinner and a restful overnight stay in Mefjordvær.

Day 4 - Cycling Mefjordvær - Hamn

hotelHamn in Senja, Hamn

restaurantBreakfast, self-packed lunch and dinner

directions_bike46 km

Photo: Jørgen Wang, Senja by Heart

Cycle back to Senjahopen, then further up through the Geitskard tunnel. From there, descend to Ersfjordstranda and proceed to Tungeneset, where you'll be treated to a breathtaking view of the renowned Okshornan. Today's journey concludes with a challenging climb up to the Skaland Tunnel, followed by a smooth descent towards Senjatrollet and on to Hamn on Senja. Nasjonal Turistveg Senja has made some great picnic areas on Ersfjordstranda, Tungeneset and Bergsbotn. Dinner and overnight in Hamn.
Photo: Jørgen Wang, Senja by Heart

Day 5 - Cycling Hamn - Gryllefjord - Andenes - Bø

hotelMarmelkroken, Bø

restaurantBreakfast, self-packed lunch and dinner

directions_bike59 km

Photo: Espen Bergersen, Marmelkroken

During the first stage of the day, from Hamn to Gryllefjord, you'll pass through the Ballesvikskar Tunnel, Senja's newest tunnel, which opened in 2013. Alternatively, you can choose to cycle the old road, going over a pass at approximately 170 meters above sea level. The trip from Hamn to Gryllefjord spans 11 or 17 km, depending on whether you take the tunnel or not. From Gryllefjord, a ferry transports you to Andøya, with the crossing taking 1 hour and 40 minutes.

From Andenes, continue cycling to Bø and Marmelkroken, covering a distance of 48 km. This stage offers an enjoyable and easy ride, as long as the headwind doesn't interfere. The route takes you along the outer part of Andøya, with the road traversing a wide ledge between the sea and mountains, and across vast bog areas. Keep an eye out for seals, whales, and eagles along the way.

We recommend stopping at Bleik for a stroll on the beach and through the old settlement. Enjoy the view of the bird mountain on Bleikøya from this location. National Tourist Route Andøya has established scenic viewpoints at Kleivodden, north of Bleik, and Bukkekjerka, south of the expansive marshlands. End your day with a delectable dinner and an overnight stay in Bø.

Day 6 - Cycling Bø - Sortland

hotelSortland Hotel, Sortland

restaurantBreakfast, self-packed lunch and dinner

directions_bike63 km

Photo: Marmelkroken

Departing from Bø, your cycling adventure progresses past Risøyhamn and over the impressive bridge spanning Risøysundet. The journey along the fjord from Risøyhamn to Sortland offers a pleasant and easy ride, though you may encounter slightly more traffic. Conclude your day with a stay in Sortland, affectionately known as "the blue city."

Day 7 - Cycle Sortland - Svolvær (alternative routes)

hotelThon Hotel Lofoten, Svolvær

restaurantBreakfast and self-packed lunch

directions_bikeAlternative routes, 28/76 km

Photo: Tofoto, nordnorge.com

Option 1: Cycle from Sortland to Stokmarknes, covering 28 km. Board the Hurtigruten from Stokmarknes to Svolvær, which navigates through the narrow Raftsundet and passes the renowned Trollfjord.

Option 2: Cycle from Sortland to Melbu, then take a ferry to Fiskebøl before continuing to Svolvær, totaling 76 km. Expect a fair amount of traffic along the E10. From Fiskebøl, we suggest taking a scenic detour along Fv888 on the outer side of Austvågøy (approximately 47 km/3 hours extra). From Sildpollen, it's 16 km to Svolvær along the E10 with moderate traffic.

Should you have rental bikes, you may return them here as needed. Enjoy a comfortable stay in Svolvær.

Day 8 - Departure from Svolvær

restaurantBreakfast

As you conclude your unforgettable cycling adventure through the awe-inspiring landscapes of northern Norway, take a moment to reflect on the epic journey you've undertaken. From Tromsø to Svolvær, this meticulously designed bike package has led you along the Arctic coast, covering an impressive 305 km of moderately challenging terrain.

There are several options for traveling from Svolvær:
• Southbound Hurtigruten: Departs from Svolvær at 20:30
• Northbound Hurtigruten: Departs from Svolvær at 22:00
• Bus to Evenes Airport, followed by a flight
• Direct flight from Svolvær

Please note: The provided schedules are subject to change.