An unforgettable natural phenomenon in the Arctic circle
One of a kind. Unforgettable. Eternal.
These are only some of the words used to describe the natural phenomenon known as “the Midnight Sun” which occurs in the Scandinavian region. The Nordic countries have always been known for their awe-inspiring views and natural light wonders.
What is The Midnight Sun like?
As the famous Norwegian author Knut Hamsun describes the Midnight Sun in his famous novel Pan (1894):
"Night was coming on again; the sun just dipped into the sea and rose again, red, refreshed, as if it had been down to drink. I could feel more strangely on those nights than anyone would believe…"
From this, it is easy to see that this kind of a sight and experience is unique to both Scandinavia and the Arctic Circle. At the same time, this magical experience is known for attracting thousands of people to visit the Arctic Circle, enjoying the view in the latitudes from Norway and Sweden (as the northern parts of it).
Hiking, sea kayaking, golfing, fishing or cycling – there are many ways to explore the midnight sun. In fact, the different sights and activities always deliver a unique experience, seeing the sun and its never-setting path between the months of April and late August.
Where to find the Midnight Sun – five areas in the circle
There are 76 days of Midnight sun between the months of May and July which can be seen from the Northern parts of Norway and Sweden. The further north you will go, the more nights of Midnight Sun you will get.
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Helgeland
This is the southern part of the Arctic Circle, located below this region and filled with forests, islands and skerries. There are some mountains such as the Okstindan which reach 1,915 meters above sea level, delivering a unique Midnight Sun experience.
Salten, Bodo
This area is just inside the Arctic Circle, hosting some of the finest Scandinavian mountain peaks south of Bodo, Sulis Kongen near Fauske (1,907m), the Steigtinden and the phallic Hammarøytinden.
Lofoten
By going further north, you will see an area of outstanding natural beauty filled with rocky peaks as well as coastal flatlands, where the midnight sun shines upon seaweed-infused soil.
Troms county, Tromso
This is the fourth milestone, surrounded by pine and birch forests and filled with waterways, fjords and highlands that are formed near the rivers Målselva and Reisaelva.
Finnmark county, Tromso
Last but not the least is the area of Finnmark county which varies in terms of nature. You can find fjords and glaciers in the southwest and big islands on the northwestern coasts.
Your most reliable partner for seeing the Midnight Sun
They say that the first step towards a new experience is usually the hardest.
At Scandinavian Airlines, we are here to walk you through the first step of getting to know the Scandinavian Midnight Sun in its full glory. With daily flights from major locations and cities around the Europe, you can expect the best possible routes and a chance to see this natural phenomenon even from your window seat.
