e ne e e fr azi id s g n i a m ap -m
EXPERIENCE
THE
TROMSO REGION
ADVENTURES
24/7
Winter 2013 - 2014
lyngsfjord.com 1
+47 776 03000 2
Rent a Car Get off the plane at Tromsø airpor t, and go directly to our counter to get the key for your rental car. Check out our website and choose the model you prefer.
(+47) 97 59 30 00 – reservation@sixt.no
www.sixt.com 3
Lyngsfjord Adventure Magazine, Experience the Tromsø Region, Winter 2013-2014. Publisher: Lyngsfjord Adventure AS (post@lyngsfjord.com) Editor: John A. Angelsen (jangelsen@gmail.com) Contributing authors: Hans Olav Eriksen, Jan-Are K. Johnsen,Tom-Frode Johansen, Tor-Vidar Nystad, Roar Kemi Nyheim and John A. Angelsen. Design/layout: John A. Angelsen/ Thor A. Angelsen Marketing & advertising: Hans Olav Eriksen (hoeriksen@hotmail.com) Distribution: This is a free magazine, published in November 2013. The magazine can also be downloaded as a PDF file at www.lyngsfjord.com. Circulation: 20.000 printed copies + downloadable PDF file. Print: Lundblad Media AS (www.lundblad.no) English translation: Gavin Tanguay (www.gavint-oversetting.no) Facebook and YouTube: Search “Lyngsfjord Adventure”.
Welcome to the In our area 1000m high mountains drop vertically into the deep fjords, giving the landscape a dramatic signature that you will not fi nd anywhere else in Europe. Right behind the fjords, the enormous Lapland tundra reaches all the way to the depths of Russia. In this part of Europe, summer brings endless days under the Midnight Sun, while winter offers a chance to experience the Polar Night and the
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Lyngsfjord Adventure is a vision. A vision about making the unspoiled landscapes, the North Norwegian culture and history available and attractive to people from all over the world. Hans Olav Eriksen, founder
Our success is based on creating a number of activities, set in the Arctic wilderness in the heartland of the Northern Lights: safe and active adventures for the urban guest from Taiwan, the espresso-loving city slicker from London or the self-challenging Brazilian who wants to see the Northern Lights. There are several destinations for activities and adventures in the wintertime, but Northern Norway has one big advantage: the city of Tromsø.
Tromsø is exceptionally vibrant and welcoming. It has a university, a great scientifi c environment, a number of international festivals and the highest concentration of pubs and bars per capita in Norway. By coincidence, this fascinating city is located in the centre of the Northern Lights zone, the background for the term The Aurora Heartland. Lyngsfjord Adventure is proud to offer you one of the best places on earth to experience the Northern Lights and genuine wilderness adventures.
last wilderness magical Northern Lights - Aurora Borealis. We are committed to providing our visitors with experiences of the highest quality, focusing on authentic excursions in the Arctic wilderness. Our managers and guides have a lot of knowledge, skills and history that they take pride in sharing with our guests. Enjoy this magazine and your stay at Camp Tamok. Hans Olav Eriksen, Managing Director
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THIS MAGAZINE
ADVENTURE
PROGRAMMES
PAGE 4
PAGE 26
DISTRICT
REINDEER SLEDDING
MALANGEN BRYGGER
PAGE 18
PAGE 74
SAMI CULTURE PAGE 92
CAMP TAMOK
HOTELS
PAGE 78
TROMSØ ADVENTURE
PAGE 88
CITY MAP PAGE 70
POLARIA PAGE 48
PAGE 62
CAFÉS
BOOK & PAY PAGE 13
6
DOG SLEDDING PAGE 8
PAGE 96
SOMMARØY ISLANDS PAGE 76
NORTHERN LIGHTS CHASE
PAGE 42 PAGE 30
FESTIVAL
TAXI
PAGE 72
SNOWMOBILE PAGE 2
PAGE 14
LYNGEN ALPS
RESTAURANTS PAGE 36
VOLLAN GJESTESTUE PAGE 82
PAGE 46
SHOPPING
PAGE 80
POPULAR SCIENCE
NIGHT LIFE
TRAVEL
CAR RENTAL PAGE 54
PAGE 64
POLAR HEROES PAGE 50
PAGE 68
PAGE 3
TIMETABLE
TROMSØ CITY
24/7
PAGE 32
PAGE 12
NORTHERN LIGHTS VISIT PAGE 22
POLAR MUSEUM PAGE 66
7
BE A
Musher
8
Say hello to a bunch of eager huskies that are ready for action.
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1. Keep both hands on the sled at all times.
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2. Brake by using
3. Assist the dogs when going
your feet.
uphill.
4. In sloping terrain, stand on the top ski.
Dog Sledding The dog sledding adventure starts with meeting the dogs and preparing for the trip. You will receive instructions on how to drive a dog team. You then drive the dog sled on your own into the white landscapes, through the beautiful Vass Valley, a side valley connected to the great Tamok Valley. You will at fi rst see Camp Tamok on your way out in the wild. The trails you follow have a total distance of approximately 15 km. The area where you lead the sled is totally uninhabited, with a landscape of mountains and forest. Out in the wilderness, these dogs are in their right environment. You will drive in pairs, one driver and one passenger on each sled, with opportunity to switch places half way. After the adventure, you will return to Camp Tamok and a hot meal will be served in our heated lavvu (Sami herdsmen’s tent).
Included ■ Transportation by bus/minibus ■ A hot meal ■ Insulated body suit ■ Boots, gloves and headwear ■ English-speaking guide ■ Evening trips will give you a chance to see the Northern Lights Recommended ■ Warm under garments (wool or fl eece is recommended) ■ Vegetarian food will be provided if advance notice is given.
5. Passengers: Keep your arms and legs inside the sled at all times.
Season:
November 1 – March 31
Departure daytime:
09:00 outside Rica Ishavshotel, downtown Tromsø. Return 16:00
Departure evening:
17:00 outside Rica Ishavshotel, downtown Tromsø. Return: 24:00
Duration:
4.5 hours + transport, 7 hours total
Price:
NOK 1695 children 4-15 years: 50% discount
Booking:
www.lyngsfjord.com +47 77 71 55 88 (09:00 - 17:00) 11
lyngsfjord.com
Timetable Tromsø City
24/7
Camp Tamok
09:00 Departure
10:15
16:00
14:45
Arrival
WINTER ADVENTURES
DAYTIME ADVENTURES Dog sledding Snowmobile safari Reindeer sledding
MID DAY BREAK Camp stay Snowshoeing
17:00 Departure
18:15
24:00
22:45
Arrival
EVENING ADVENTURES Dog sledding Snowmobile Reindeer sledding Northern Lights visit
OVERNIGHT Sami tent Timber cabin Aurora chalet
Please show up at the bus 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time. The bus departs at the exact time to ensure full value of your day. 12
10:45 *
Note that there is no transfer back to Tromsø City following the overnight stay. Spending the night in camp requires that you have booked both an evening excursion before the overnight stay and a daytime excursion after the overnight stay.
Book and Pay Online Simply go to our website and choose from the different excursions and programmes on your chosen date. After booking your adventures, you progress to the next step; payment. All transactions go through Epay, a global system for secure payments online. You do not need to create an account, and Epay accepts all major credit cards. Problems with payment? If you still run into any kind of problem, contact us by email or phone, and we will assist you. You can read more about terms and conditions on our website. Note that the excursions need to be prepaid for your booking to be confirmed, as it is not possible to pay at the wilderness camp. Already in Tromsø? If you are already in Tromsø and want to book and pay, please e-mail or call us first to check availability. Be aware that some excursions might be fully booked during the peak season (December to February). After talking with our staff, you may visit our website via your smart phone, laptop or simply by using a PC at your hotel reception.
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INTO
The White
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Camp Tamok is the starting point for a breathtaking adventure in the driver’s seat of a snowmobile.
>
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1. The throttle lever is on the right-hand side, operated by your thumb.
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2. The break handle is located on your left-hand side.
3. Keep your feet and legs inside the protective metal skirts at all times.
4. Lean to the right when making a right turn, and lean to the left when making a left turn.
Snowmobile Safari No previous skills are required to drive a snowmobile. All you need is a regular driving licence, and it is just as easy as it is fun. The trail is 15 km each way, 30 km in total. The starting point is at an altitude of 250 m above sea level, and the guide brings you up to an elevation of 875 m. Imagine the views you will have during this snowmobile trip. We begin with a thorough safety introduction. You will drive in pairs, one driver and one passenger on each snowmobile, with opportunity to switch places during the trip. Due to the dramatic topography, a reduced speed is held during parts of the tour. On flat land and frozen lakes, you can speed up. The top point of the trail is a frozen lake. If time and weather permit, you can try ice fishing on this lake. The second half of the excursion brings you back down again, ending up at Camp Tamok, our wilderness camp, where you will be served a hot meal in our lavvu (Sami herdsmen’s tent). Included ■ Transportation by bus/minibus ■ A hot meal ■ Helmet ■ Insulated body suit ■ Boots, gloves and headwear ■ English-speaking guide ■ Evening trips will give you a chance to see the Northern Lights Recommended ■ Warm under garments (wool or fleece is recommended) ■ Vegetarian food will be provided if advance notice is given
5. If you feel insecure, just let go of the throttle and hand break. The snowmobile will then gently slow down.
Season:
November 1 – March 31
Departure daytime:
09:00 outside Rica Ishavshotel, downtown Tromsø. Return 16:00
Departure evening:
17:00 outside Rica Ishavshotel, downtown Tromsø. Return: 24:00
Duration:
4.5 hours + transport, 7 hours total
Price:
NOK 1695 children 4-15 years: 50% discount
Booking: www.lyngsfjord.com +47 77 71 55 88 (09:00 - 17:00) 17
SAMI
Encounter
The reindeer’s majestic steps in their natural habitat move the sled through the snow.
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Reindeer Sledding Reindeer sledding is the oldest form of transport in the north, and an ancient part of Sami culture. The reindeer’s majestic steps in their natural habitat move the sled through the snow. The sledding trail crosses the Tamok Valley. You will drive in pairs, with one sled for each reindeer. People of all ages can participate on this very “soft” adventure. This cultural adventure includes trying lasso-throwing, the way the Sami people still catch their reindeers when they are rounded up for marking or slaughter. You will also visit a Sami lavvu (herdsmen’s tent) and you will learn about Sami culture and history with an introduction to traditional Sami handicraft. To conclude this excursion, you will be served a hot meal. Daytime trips give you an amazing view of the wild mountains in the area, and evening trips in the period November March will provide a good chance to experience the Northern Lights.
Included ■ Transportation by bus/minibus ■ A hot meal ■ Insulated body suit ■ Boots, gloves and headwear ■ English-speaking guide ■ Evening trips will give you a chance to see the Northern Lights. Recommended ■ Warm under garments (wool or fleece is recommended) ■ Vegetarian food will be provided if advance notice is given
Season:
November 1 – March 31
Departure daytime:
09:00 outside Rica Ishavshotel, downtown Tromsø. Return: 16:00
Departure:
17:00 outside Rica Ishavshotel, downtown Tromsø. Return: 24:00
Duration:
4.5 hours + transport, 7 hours total
Price:
NOK 1595 children 4-15 years: 50% discount
Booking: www.lyngsfjord.com +47 77 71 55 88 (09:00 - 17:00) 21
Photos become pale shadows compared to the real thing.
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>
REAL
Stardust
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Northern Lights Visit The Northern Lights visit at our wilderness camp is an excursion with the main purpose of watching the Northern Lights - Aurora Borealis. Camp Tamok is located a 75-minute drive inland from the centre of the coastal city of Tromsø. The camp is therefore located in a different climate zone. Here, you find stable dry weather with many days of clear sky. Due to the stable climate of this location, the persistent Aurora watcher will have excellent chances of spotting the frail rays of this majestic beauty. As this is an uninhabited area, no artificial light will disturb your experience as you attempt to capture the Aurora Borealis with your camera. During the visit you will be served a hot meal and enjoy a social time around the open fire in the big lavvu (Sami herdsmen’s tent). If the sky is cloudy or there is no sign of the Northern Lights, you will still have good value for money. A trip to the wilderness camp is an adventure in itself. The dark and quiet surroundings e a genuine Arctic atmosphere. Included: ■ Transportation by bus/minibus ■ A hot meal ■ Insulated body suit ■ Boots, gloves and headwear ■ English-speaking guide ■ Evening trips will give you a chance to see the Northern Lights Recommended: ■ Warm under garments (wool or fleece is recommended) ■ Vegetarian food will be provided if advance notice is given
Season:
November 1 – March 31
Departure:
17:00 outside Rica Ishavshotel, downtown Tromsø. Return: 24:00
Duration:
4.5 hours + transport, 7 hours total
Price:
NOK 995 children 4-15 years: 50% discount
Booking: www.lyngsfjord.com +47 77 71 55 88 (09:00 - 17:00)
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Overnight Programme Lyngsfjord Adventure, unlike other adventure providers, gives you the opportunity to tailor your own experiences. Would you like to spend a day at Camp Tamok with adventures daytime and evening, or rather spend a night in the camp with evening and daytime adventures? Just pick and choose the adventures and accommodation options that you prefer and we will handle the rest. All overnight programmes include an evening adventure and a daytime adventure the following day - three experiences in one! On our website you may choose the excursions and accommodation option you prefer. You may sleep in a heated lavvu (Sami herdsmen’s tent), a timber cabin or in a private chalet (small heated wooden hut for two people.
Included: ■ Transportation by bus/minibus ■ 3 meals (2 hot) ■ Insulated body suit ■ Boots, gloves and headwear ■ Winter sleeping bag ■ English-speaking guide Recommended: ■ Warm under garments (wool or fleece is recommended) ■ Vegetarian food will be provided if advance notice is given
Season:
November 1 – March 31
Minimum:
At least two guests
Departure:
17:00 outside Rica Ishavshotel, downtown Tromsø.
Return:
16:00 the following day
Duration: 19.5 hours + transport, 23 hours total Price:
Depends on choice of excursions Children 4-15 years: 50% discount
Booking: www.lyngsfjord.com +47 77 71 55 88 (09:00 - 17:00) 26
Full-Day Adventure
ADVENTURE
PROGRAMMES
Lyngsfjord Adventure, unlike other adventure providers, gives you the opportunity to tailor your own experiences. Would you like to spend a long day at Camp Tamok with adventures daytime and evening, with a meal and rest in between? Just pick and choose the adventures that you prefer and we will handle the rest. The “Full-day Programme” includes a daytime adventure, interesting time spent at the camp and then an evening excursion with chance of seeing the Northern Lights - three experiences in one! On our website you can choose the excursions you prefer. In addition to a meal in between the adventures, you will have access to cabins, tents and snowshoes.
Included: ■ Transportation by bus/minibus ■ 3 meals (2 hot) ■ Insulated body suit ■ Boots, gloves and headwear ■ Access to snowshoes ■ English-speaking guide Recommended: ■ Warm under garments (wool or fleece is recommended) ■ Vegetarian food will be provided if advance notice is given
Season:
November 1 – March 31
Minimum:
At least two guests
Departure:
09:00 outside Rica Ishavshotel, downtown Tromsø. Return: 24:00
Duration: 11.5 hours + transport, 15 hours total Price:
Depends on choice of excursions Children 4-15 years: 50% discount
Booking: www.lyngsfjord.com +47 77 71 55 88 (09:00 - 17:00)
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Nature’s Light Show It appears like a glowing light, constantly moving and changing its form, strength and colours.
The sun, the moon and the stars belong to the everlasting and predictable in the universe. On the other hand, the majestic Northern Lights – or Aurora Borealis – are illusive, changing and unpredictable. The cosmos demonstrates electric and magnetic fields, showing unique movement and colours. The Northern Lights is not something you may experience on the TV. To get the full experience, you need to escape the bright city light, so-called “light pollution”, and head somewhere dark. To improve the chance of Northern Lights sightings, you also need to avoid the coastline in 28
order to find dry weather conditions. Camp Tamok, a 75-minute inland drive from Tromsø, provides the optimal conditions, as you can see on the photo beside. What is it? It is a phenomenon that occurs when the solar winds originating from the sun are more powerful than usual, sending charged particles towards the earth. The particles are electrons and protons, glowing when colliding with the earth’s atmosphere. The Northern Lights occur at a height of more than 100 km above the ground, and may be observed in the night sky in a belt around the Magnetic North Pole. It is often in a wave movement, sometimes filling the sky with blue, green, red and orange light.
Aurora Polaris (polar light) is called Aurora Borealis in the northern hemisphere and Aurora Australis in the southern hemisphere. Season for sightings The Northern Lights is present year-round, but may only be observed when it is dark. During summer in the far north, the sun never sets and it is light around the clock. The mystical Northern Lights are visible again from September and on many clear evenings right up to the middle of April. From mid-April, the amount of darkness each day reduces sharply and from May 21 you can see the Midnight Sun in Tromsø. The contrasts are enormous in the Arctic.
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Non-stop Northern Lights chase A rctic Guide Service guarantees a
G uests can check-in for our excursions
non-stop Northern Lights chase every single evening (September 15 to March 31).
every single day from 2 pm to 6 pm at our Arctic
G uide Service offices right behind the
E very minibus or bus has a professional driver and an authorized guide on board.
reception of Radisson Blu hotel (Bankgata 1, 9008 Tromsø).
T his crew is on one specific mission: to
W e start boarding at 18:15 and we
take you wherever the chances to admire the magnificent Aurora are best (at that precise moment).
depart at 18:30 from this address.
D uration: six to seven hours. Includes hot chocolate, cookies, and free electronic pictures of the excursion posted on our Facebook page.
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NORTHERN LIGHTS CHASE
One night NL Chase NOK 950 pp Two nights NL Chase NOK 1710 pp Three nights NL Chase NOK 2422 pp 31
Tromsø City In many ways Tromsø is the “Arctic capital” of Norway. People from more than 100 countries live permanently in Tromsø.
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TROMSO: View of Tromsø from a near by mountain. The photo is taken from the
PARIS of the
NORTH This is the end of civilization, and the beginning of the largest uninhabited wilderness area in Europe. The Tromsø municipality has a population of around 70,000, approximately 60,000 of whom live in or nearby the city of Tromsø. Tromsø is by far the largest city in Northern Norway,
”
and is also the largest Nordic city north of the Arctic Circle. Tromsø has its own university and brewery. No other universities or breweries in the world are located this far north. The city is surrounded by hundreds of islands, dramatic mountains and deep fjords, and is only a twohour flight from Oslo, the Norwegian capital.
A variety of activities The university provides many opportunities for scientists from all over the world, studying the Northern Lights, the Arctic environment, fisheries, climate change, oil resources in the ocean, and many other topics. As a result of this activity, there are several museums dedicated to the Arctic life and nature, as well as an Arctic experience centre and aquarium. Tromsø, the Gateway to the Arctic, was founded in 1794, and from 1850 the town was central in fisheries and other marine-
The finer ladies in Tromsø could afford to wear the latest fashions from Paris. 34
based activity. In the early 20th century, the town was also the starting point for several famous expeditions in the Arctic waters and in the race to be the first person on the North Pole.
Flourishing town The activity a century years ago led to a flourishing cultural life. The finer ladies in Tromsø could afford to wear the latest fashions from Paris and other cultural centres in Europe. In the Nordic countries this gave Tromsø the nickname “Paris of the North”. The growing population and status as an Arctic capital, with a lasting boom in the cultural life, has maintained this image to this day. Tromsø has its own professional theatre, an international film festival, and many other festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year. Taking into consideration the size of the city, the nightlife in the many restaurants and bars is extraordinary. You will find restaurants serving everything from sushi to traditional Norwegian dishes.
destination of the city cable cart.
Photo: Shutterstock
WHALER: This statue of a traditional whaler stands in the main square. Photo: Hurtigruten ASA
TRADITIONAL: Classic colours on Norwegian wooden houses.
WOODEN CHRURCH: ”Tromsø Domkirke” is a wooden church from the 1861. It is located by the main street.
Photo: Hurtigruten ASA/Nicole Tessier
Climate and scenery Although located so far north, Tromsø has a mild maritime climate. The city’s record low temperature is -18 ºC, which is not that cold considering the latitude. In the short summer, you can experience temperatures up to +28 ºC. In winter the record snow
Photo: Hurtigruten ASA/Karlheinz Arnau
depth is 2.4 metres. The Midnight Sun is visible from May 21 until July 21, and the Polar Night stretches from November 21 until January 21. During this period, the sun does not rise above the horizon. Tromsø is where civilization meets the wild and enormous Arctic envi-
ronment. You can take the cable car up to a mountain more than 400 metres above sea level and admire the panoramic view of the islands and high mountains surrounding the city.
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Tromsø has a high concentration of top restaurants. The city that has every culinary corner covered.
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LOCAL
Dining 37
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It’s rumoured that dining enthusiasts from the capital book a table at Emma’s before booking their flights.
D
ining at Emma’s Dream Kitchen is both an intimate and a sublime experience. The ambience is light but low-key, the tables are laid with spotless perfection. The atmosphere even made the King and Queen visibly relaxed and at home when stopping by for dinner.
B
ut who is Emma? This imaginary woman has many origins – as dreams do. Emma is a kind, warm, and generous woman, who is as considerate and caring as she is classy in the kitchen. Emma is a master of blue ribbon French cuisine, and is up-to-date with every trend and fashion in cookery. Nonetheless she values what her fellow-northerners call “decent food”, prepared to the highest standards from first-class local ingredients.
E
mma’s faces the Cathedral and High Street, so the Northern Lights and darkness, and the Arctic frame of mind all influence the menus. Lovers from near and far are enchanted by Emma’s Valentine’s Day menu. During the Northern Lights Festival, the dessert shimmers like the lights themselves.
Reser vations: (+47) 77 63 77 30 www.emmas.as post@emmas.as
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Bardus Bistro has done a good job of going gastro without losing the intimate atmosphere of a bistro. In part, this is due to the quantity of tables and chairs they’ve crammed into the stripped main bar, forcing people to share and creating a buzzy, convivial atmosphere that works well whether you are from London or from Tromsø. It’s also due to an excellent range of wine. The short menu with focus on the traditional North Norwegian kitchen has some mouth-watering dishes based on both fish and meat. Open Monday: Tue-Fri: Saturday: Sunday:
11:00 - 17:30 11:00 - 22:00 12:00 - 22:00 16:00 - 22:00
Reservations: (+47) 926 74 888
Location: See map in centerfold
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If you think `quick, cheap bites´ when you think of tapas, Presis Restaurant will make you think again. Dishes are way beyond the average sharing plates you get at your typical tapas bar - in both price and quality. Presis ensures ingredients from Northern Norway: reindeer meat, stockfish and salmon. Perfect for light tapas bites or a full Spanish feast, the Arctic way.
Open Tue-Thu: Fri-Sat:
16:00 - 22:00 16:00 - 23:00
Closed Sunday and Monday
Reservations
(+47) 776 81 020 www.cirka.as
Location See map in centerfold
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Café & Lunch
There is more to Tromsø’s coffee shops than just great brews. The city features a wide range of cafés with its own character and inspiration, from New York to Norway in the 50’s. For lunch, you may choose between tasty cakes, international dishes and a cosy tea house in the centre of the city.
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Traditional dishes complement new tastes on the menu of the Café, and Smørtorget anno 2013 unites with the one from 1813: the past meets present.
Smørtorget (the butter market) was on the map of Tromsø for the first time in 1813, a place where farmers came to sell butter and dairy products. The market featured many shops, ranging from textiles and souvenirs to knick-knacks and cafés.
In 2013 , 200 years later, Smørtorget came back to life, when six women took the initiative to create a common square: the new Butter Market. By establishing the new Smørtorget, the desire was to contribute to new life in the square. The old market has a long tradition of exchanging, trading and socializing, and the co-location of several businesses has helped 44
to maintain the feeling of a market. The vision was to create a vibrant atmosphere with artistic and creative activity, scents from the café blending with exciting products of the shop. You can enjoy a cup of coffee, a painting from the watercolour artist featuring motives from the Tromsø area or handmade jewellery or dresses from the local artists, all at the same place. It even has a thrift shop with interior from the city.
Today , Smørtorget is the result of love for old objects and a fascination with modern influences. Used furniture stands side by side with modern elements.
The world’s nor ther nmost tea house Tante Ingers (Aunt Inger ’s) specialty is tea, and here it is possible to get everything from First Flush to a refreshing ice tea. In a quiet environment, you can enjoy homemade lunches like foccaccia and chicken salad. In winter it is possible to warm up with a good portion of soup, while in summer wraps with mango salsa are on the menu. Homemade cakes are served every day.Please contact us if you would like to order cakes, food or book a table.
Mon-Sat 11:00-16:00
Location: See map in centerfold
Phone: +47 924 98 201 (10:00-16:00) 45
ARCTIC
Gateway
In older times Tromsø was the connecting point for expeditions to the North Pole, for whalers in Arctic waters and trappers going to Greenland and other remote locations. The taverns of Tromsø were the last memory of civilization in the trappers’ mind when they left to stay alone in the wilderness through the long polar winter. Tromsø was also the first sight of civilization for fishermen and others coming from long journeys in the Barents Sea. Nowadays the city is a major hub for flights and ships, 46
especially since there are no railways going this far north. From Tromsø you can fly up to Spitsbergen, close to the North Pole, or on charter routes to Turkey and Greece, which is quite unique for a city with a population of only 70,000. Tromsø is easy to access, with several daily flights from the international airport in Oslo, the Norwegian capital. The airlines SAS and Norwegian both offer low price tickets. Tromsø airport is located only a 10-minute drive from the city centre. In compact downtown Tromsø, you can choose between more than 15 hotels. It is therefore easy to find and book your
accommodation, in various price ranges and within walking distance of the city’s attractions. Lyngsfjord Adventure provides all necessary transport by minibus or bus from downtown Tromsø to the locations of the adventures, and these transfers are always included in our prices. You buy directly from the suppliers, so both the programme and price of your adventure holiday will fit your requirements perfectly.
DIRECT FLIGHTS: GATWICK-TROMSØ The airline Norwegian.no has several weekly direct flights. The fligtht time is 3hr 25min.
TROMSØ AIRPORT has several daily flights from Oslo (OSL), the Norwegian capital. Flight time from Oslo International Airport (OSL) is 1hr 50min.
OSLO AIRPORT (Gardermoen) Approximate flight times: London 1hr 20min Ber lin 1hr 55min Rome 3hr 10min Madrid 3hr 45min Paris 2hr 25min Br ussels 1hr 55min
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CITY MAP 1
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Lyngsfjord Adventure
17 Emmas Drømmekjøkken (p 38)
2 Rica Ishavshotel (p 71)
18 Bardus Bistro (p 40)
3 Radisson Blue hotel Tromsø
19 Presis tapas og bar (p 41)
4 Amalie Hotell
20 Smørtorget (p 44)
5 Rica Grand Hotel
21 Tante Ingers Tehus (p 45)
6 City Living Hotel Tromsø
22 Circa (p 53)
7 Thon Hotel Tromsø
23 Bardus (p 52)
8 Thon Hotel Polar
24 Sånn (p 51)
9 Quality Hotel Saga
25 Glasshytta Blåst (p 58)
10 Clarion Hotel Bryggen
26 Andresens Våpenforretning (p 59)
11 Clarion Collection Hotel With
27 Brødrene Johannessen (p 60)
12 AMI Hotel
28 Møysalen (p 61)
13 ABC Hotel
29 Jekta shopping mall (p 56)
14 Smarthotel Tromsø (p 70)
30 Polaria (p 62)
15 Skansen Hotel
31 Polar Museum (p 66)
16 Viking Hotel & Apartments
32 Science centre (p 64)
Samue
l A rn e s e
13
Sko
le g a
Kvaløya Island
12
ta
P
Tromsø Island
ar kg
14
at a
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6
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ata
29 gata
32 31
7 gata
28
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23
24
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Nightlife
Despite only having a population of 70,000, Tromsø is considered to have one of Norways´s most vibrant nightlifes, featuring a wide variety of clubs and bars.
The reason for the vibrant nightlife is that the city has a relatively large university (the world’s northernmost), combined with dynamic research and economic development. It provides a wonderful mix of young and old, innovative and conservative people who meet at one of the many venues in Tromsø, weekday as well as weekend. Tromsø has both DJ clubs and more intimate speak-easy bars, all concentrated within walking distance from the city centre.
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Café Sånn is a lunch place that turns into an intimate bar in the evening. This is a typical speak-easy, with candlelit tables and vintage furniture. It offers a g reat mixture of live bands and speak-easy nights that have put it at the heart of the Tromsø nightlife. The bar has one of the best selections of beer, from all over the world. Open Mon-Thu: Friday: Saturday: Closed on Sundays
11:00 - 01:00 11:00 - 02:00 12:00 - 02:00
(kitchen close 18:00) (kitchen close 18:00) (kitchen close 17:00)
www.cirka.as
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r has Bardus Ba dern a more mo ill touch, st nd a intimate of ple where peo meet s e g a all hare a s d an e bar drink. Th cial has a spe ne, wi focus on reat g a s and i nt to e m e l comp . CafĂŠ SĂĽnn Mon-Thu: 00 18:00-01: Friday: 00 15:00-03: Saturday: 00 18:00-03:
See
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Location: d. centerfol
Bar Circa has a focus on Club Music, ranging from Soul, Funk & Disco, to House and Electronic music, with guest DJ`s from all over Scandinavia every weekend. The style and interior is inspired by 50s & 60s Norway, and gives a feeling that you are at a great home party. Worth knowing: Wine evenings every Wednesday since 2003, and Chess evenings every Monday.
OPEN Mon-Tue: 18:00 - 01:00 Wed-Thu: 18:00 - 01:30 Fri-Sat: 19:00 - 03:00 LOCATION See map in centerfold www.cirka.as 53
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Shopping Tromsø offers a vast array of small, unique shops selling unusual and vintage clothing, quirky gifts, shoes, books and organic food. The city has a good range of mid -priced fashion stores alongside some of the city’s oldest and high-priced shops. You can also visit one of Norway´s largest shopping malls, Jekta.
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Jekta Storsenter shopping mall:
THE GIANT OF THE NORTH Shopping:
FASHION B.Young Bik Bok Brandstad Jeans Carlings Change Lingerie Chantal Cubus Dressmann Dressmann XL Gina Tricot Indiska Hennes & Mauritz Jack&Jones KappAhl Levis Store Lindex LMC Lovely Planet Mango Match House of Fashion Moose on the Loose Monki Name It New Yorker Noa Noa Nurke Only PM Mote Polarn O. Pyret Selected Solid Sorbet Urban Vero Moda VIC
Vivikes Volt Wow Zizzi INTERIORS / HOUSEHOLD Britts Christiania Belysning Clas Ohlson Coop OBS! Bygg light Enklere Liv Fagmøbler Feel Galleri & Innramming H&M Home Jernia Kid Interiør Kitch’n Kremmerhuset Mester Grønn Nille Princess Søstrene Grene Taras Til Bords Åhlens LEISURE / HOBBY Bundingen Coop OBS! Sport Fotballting Elite Foto G Max Jobb & Fritid Stormberg Symaskinbutikken Bonus Tropehagen Zoo
• Hours: 10-21 (18) • Only 5 minutes by car from the airport • Free parking • www.jekta.no
GIFT / TOYS / STATIONERY Ark Bokhandel Bokhuset Libris Br Leker Brio Fryd og Gammen Notabene Panduro Hobby Teknikmagasinet
SERVICES / BANK JJ’s Barnepark Posten Sparebank 1 Nord-Norge HEALTH / BEAUTY / PHARMACIES Boots Apotek Hair Shop Kicks Life Lucky Duck Nikita Skin & Tonic The Body Shop Vita Vitus Apotek
SHOES / BAGS Bagorama Bianco Dna Ecco Store Euro Sko Mani Morris Shoeday Skoringen RESTAURANTS / SUPERMARKETS Big Bite Coop Marked Coop OBS! Hypermarked Coop OBS! Kafe Dolly Dimples Dragøy Helmersen Delikatesser Jordbærpikene Kaffebønna Mix Narvesen Ness Cafè Shin Sushi Vinmonopol Yogurt Heaven
ELECTRONICS / MUSIC Coop OBS! Elektro Elkjøp Ekspress Eplehuset Net Com Spaceworld Telekiosken ACCESSORIES / JEWELLERS / OPTICIANS Accessorize Bjørklund Cmyk Glitter Gullfunn Interoptik Optik Spesialbutikken i Nord Polar Gull og Ur
THE GIANT OF THE NORTH
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Bl책st was established in 2002, and has become a natural stop for visitors to the Paris of the North. The owners blow glass at the workshop virtually every day, and it might be possible to see the transformation from molten glass to the most beautiful objects. Be aware, it will be hot like a sauna. Production includes everything from drinking vessels of all kinds to vases and bowls for the more sculptural and unique items. All glass blowers participate in the formulation and design. Most likely, you will find something to your liking. Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10:00 - 17:00 Saturday: 10:00 - 1500 (Closed Dec. 25-31)
Location: See map in centerfold.
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Selling outdoor equipment since 1870
The Andresen family company has a very long history in the city centre´s main street, and has always been regarded as a store with a brilliant selection of hunting equipment, winter clothing and everything you need to survive in the Arctic.
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Clothing for men Brødrene Johannessen AS was founded by brothers Steve and Fridtjof in September 1949, with a focus on menswear. Brothers Johannessen AS is proud to be the only shop in Tromsø to win the award ”Trading business of the year” three times. Quality Clothing and personal service has been an important message to our many customers. Here you will find world famous brands of high quality, such as Hugo Boss - Hugo - Ricco Vero - Sand - Lacoste - Tiger - Gant - Frislid - Meyer Hosen - Eton - Eterna - Bjorn Borg - Jacob Cohen - Belstaff - Levis - Polo Ralph Lauren. Some of these suppliers provide clothing up to size XXXXXL, which means we have a wide range of sizes. A custom sewing room enables us to quickly and effectively perform any necessary changes. Find our store location in the city map in the centerfold. Mon-Wed: 09:00-16:30 Thursday: 09:00-19:00 Friday: 09:00-16:30 Saturday: 10:00-15:00
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Clothing for women Møysalen is a family-owned company with two stores, one in Tromsø city centre and one in Glasmagasinet in Oslo. Møysalen was established by Helen Marie Rasmussen in 1992, and our Tromsø store is located in the main shopping street of Tromsø. Here you will find clothes for women of all ages. We are proud to provide a pleasant and exclusive range of brands from Beck Søndergaard, DKNY, Kenzo, Kudibal, Line of Oslo, Marc O´Polo, Marlies Dekkers, Nougat, Odd Molly, Ti-Mo and Transit. Skilled co-workers will help you to assemble a desired wardrobe. We offer clothing for both casual and formal occasions with beautiful accessories like stockings, scarves, hand bags, shoes and gloves. We welcome you to visit us in our store in the main street. See map in the centerfold.
Mon-Wed 10-18 Thursday 10-19 Friday 10-18 Saturday 10-16 61
Polaria In Tromsø you can visit the Arctic aquarium in the city centre. Polaria has an Arctic aquarium, interesting knowledge-based exhibits, a panoramic cinema and a gift and souvenir shop. In our panoramic cinema, you can look for ward to the Ivo Caprino film ”Svalbard - Arctic Wilderness”. A little auk takes you on an airborne trip with you in a helicopter, along the west coast of 62
Spitsbergen - the largest island in the group known as Svalbard. We also show the film ”Northern Lights in Arctic Nor way”. In this film, the famous Tromsø-photographer Ole C. Salomonsen show you Northern Lights as it can be in Tromsø in his beautiful work. After the film, visitors are taken
along the ”Arctic Walkway” where you can experience some of the elements of Arctic nature and the research that are done in these areas. In the aquarium, the main attraction are the bearded seals and the harbour seals. The bearded seal is an Arctic species, and they are ver y popular among children
Prices & hours WINTER OPENING HOURS Sept. 1 - May 17:
10:00 - 17:00
Dec 24 and 25: 13.00-16.00 TICKET PRICES (NOK)
Adults: Children: Senior: Student: and adults alike, due to their quiet disposition and intelligent nature. The aquarium also has interesting exhibits of the most common species of fish and other bottom species you can find in the Barents Sea.
Family:
120 60 85 70 280
TRAINING AND FEEDING Training and feeding of the seals every day at
12:30 and 15:30
www.polaria.no (+47) 77 75 01 00 63
THE
Science Centre A Science Center for and about the northern parts of Norway.
Nor dnor sk vitensenter (The Science Centre of Northern Norway) was established 29 August 2002 and is a non-profit Science Center located at the world’s northernmost university, the UiT - the Arctic Uniersity of Norway. T he close connection between the Science Centre and the University give us an unique possibility to be a key partner for the school system in the region (Northern Norway), both in education of students (from 6 to 19 years old) and the teachers of both today and tomorrow. The aim of the establishment is to change attitudes towards science and technology among students, and in so
POPULAR SCIENCE
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doing increase the number of students who later choose a higher education in science and technology. T he activities at the Science Centre shall help the school system, which struggles to equip the students (and the teachers) with scientific and technological skills, as well as making science and technology accessible for ordinary people. Planetarium experience at the centre with stunning films and picture show of the Northern Lights. For the first time people around the world will be able to experience the beauty, mystery and thrill of the Northern Lights as experienced by those who live around the Arctic Circle. Seven months of winter skywatching, hundreds of thousands of photographs and hundreds of hours under the spell of the Aurora have been condensed into the world’s first all dome 360 degree, high resolution movie of the Aurora or Northern Lights. Other shows on display at the planetarium are ”Sea Monsters”, ”Origin of Life”, Two Small Pieces of Glass”, ”Our Liveing Climate”, ”We are Atronomers”, ”Stars”, and ”A Magic Northern Lights Night”.
Monday-Sunday: 11:00-16:00
Tickets for exhibition and planetarium. Single tickets (NOK) Children
(4-16) :
Students: Seniors: Adults: Family:
50 60 80 100 250
Location The Science Centre of Northern Norway is about a 40-minute walk from downtown Tromsø. Access by bus is very good and there are parking areas on campus as well.
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The Polar Museum
The history of Norwegian trapping, Arctic science and polar expeditions Opening hour s 11:00 - 17:00 (Aug 15 - Jun 15) 10:00 - 19:00 (Jun 15 - Aug 14)
Location: See map in centerfold
Tromsø has long been an important base for many polar expeditions, and the Polar Museum exhibits and presents this polar seafaring tradition.
Photo: Tomaz Wacko, Tromsø University Museum
Exhibitions: ■ Overwintering in the Arctic ■ The trapper Henry Rudi who killed 713 polar bears
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■ The first female trapper to winter in the Arctic – Wanny Woldstad ■ Seal hunting in the Arctic Ocean ■ The life and expeditions of Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen ■ Helmer Hansen and Hjalmar Johansen, who accompanied Amundsen to the South Pole. ■ Svalbard, Wilhelm Barentz’ discovery of the region in the 16th century. ■ Whaling in the 17 and 18th centuries and Russian overwintering
Photo: June Åsheim
Tromsø has been the centre of seal hunting in North Norway, and the town was established as the “Gateway to the Arctic” in the late 1800s. At the museum you will meet men, women, vessels and equipment that were essential for life on the sea and in the Arctic.
Photo: Tomaz Wacko, Tromsø University Museum
POLAR MUSEUM
Apart from its permanent exhibitions, the Polar Museum also presents temporary exhibitions at regular intervals. The exhibit hall is in the building called Sjøhuset (The Sea Warehouse). This is the oldest house of the building complex, build around 1800. Address: Søndre Tollbodgate 11, 9008 Tromsø. Phone: (+47) 77 62 33 60 Web: www.uit.no/polarmuseet
Ground floor: ■ Trapping in the Arctic ■ Svalbard in the 17th and 18th centuries ■ Hunting situation ■ Seal hunting 1st floor: ■ Roald Amundsen ■ Henry Rudi and Wanny Woldstad ■ Walrus hunting and Polar bear hunting Meeting room and Sea warehouse: ■ Fridtjof Nansen ■ Temporary exhibitions
Photo: Tomaz Wacko, Tromsø University Museum 67
Polar heroes The city of Tromsø has always been a hotspot for polar expeditions. Several of the most famous polar heroes were trained by local trappers. Perhaps the best known polar hero is Roald Amundsen. Amundsen led his famous expedition in the race to reach the South Pole in 1911. His rival was the British explorer Robert Falcon Scott. Amundsen’s right-hand man was Helmer Hanssen from Tromsø. Hanssen was a navigator and a highly skilled musher. Since only a short distance remained, Hanssen made it seem as if his dogs were tired so that Amundsen would become the first man to reach the South Pole.
The Tragedy Englishman Scott and his companions reached the South Pole a month later. They died on the way back from disappointment, cold, exhaustion and scurvy. Hanssen was full of admiration for Scott’s achievement, and thought his expedition was far greater in terms of sheer willpower than the Norwegian expedition. Scott and his crew pulled the heavy sledges themselves for great distances, while the Norwegians had learned from the Eskimos and used dogs to pull their sleds. Describing Amundsen’s expedition, Hanssen wrote in his memoirs: “Amundsen’s brilliant planning, our comrades’ careful preparatory work and our dogs’ 68
endurance had made the journey into a recreational trip.”
Amundsen dies Like the other famous explorers, Amundsen learned seamanship from Tromsø’s many trappers. Most of his polar expeditions started in Tromsø, including what proved to be his final expedition - a rescue mission to save his Italian collea-
gue, Umberto Nobile. Nobile went missing in the far north in 1928. Amundsen went on a rescue mission using a seaplane. The plane was last seen as it took off from the port of Tromsø in June 1928. No one has been able to find the wreck of Amundsen’s seaplane, but Nobile was found in good condition. When he arrived in Norway,
Robert F. Scott
Fridtjof Nansen
Helmer Hanssen
Roald Amundsen
POLAR HEROeS
AT THE POLE: Roald Amundsen (L), Helmer Hanssen, Sverre Hassel and Oscar Wisting. Photo taken by the teams fifth member Nils Bjaaland.
the grief of losing Amundsen was felt so badly that Nobile did not step onto Norwegian soil. A landing from a ship was added directly into the train that transported the Italian out of the country.
Trickery The great explorer and Nobel Peace Prize winner Fritdjof Nansen also had Tromsø as a
starting point. Nansen financed an expedition for Amundsen to conduct research in the Arctic. Amundsen had other plans, and just after the ship had left the dock he told the crew that the target was the South Pole. Nansen never forgave Amundsen for this, although the South Pole expedition was a success. Ironically, Scott is the reason we can state with certainty
that Amundsen’s expedition was the first to reach the South Pole. The finding of Scott’s tent, and thereby Scott’s diary and photographs of Amundsen’s tent, provides the proof that Amundsen had been to the South Pole.
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The brand new Smarthotel Tromsø opened in April 2013, in the heart of downtown Tromsø, historically branded as the “Paris of the North”. A stay at Smarthotel will give you easy access to the must-see spots of Tromsø, including Ishavskatedralen (“the Arctic Cathedral”), Rorbua and Skarven (famous local watering-holes) and the thriving downtown main street . The hotel offers an inviting and spacious lobby and 160 uniquely designed rooms at an unbeatable price , so Smarthotel Tromsø should be the natural choice when visiting the great north. Welcome .
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R I C A I S H AV S H O T E L The hotel is centrally located in Tromsø, also known as the Paris of the North. With its unique location on the quay, the hotel stretches out over the Tromsø Strait with magnificent views of the harbour, Arctic Cathedral and Tromsdalen. Fr. Langesgate 2 Tromsø, 9008 (+47) 77 66 64 00 rica.ishavshotel@rica.no www.rica.no
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NORTHERN LIGHTS FESTIVAL January 24 - February 2, 2014
The festival in 2014 is the realization of our vision to be able to present the best of art for our enthusiastic audience. The theme for the festival in 2014 is therefore a natural choice: Fantasy. This is a topic that was made clear when we, as the first in Norway in recent times, could present the world famous and unique Bolshoi Ballet. In Classical music, ”Fantasy” means a part of a musical piece where the soloist is
allowed more freedom of interpretation or improvising. Throughout the programme we will present such imaginative elements - from the Tromsø Chamber Orchestra with Henning Kraggerud and Jostein Gaarder and the American jazz singer Simone’s encounter with Tromsø Big Band to the star soprano Julia Novikova - that our visitors and residents will get goosebumps. The festival lasts ten days. Several hundred performers
from three continents will be on stage and make their mark on the cultural life of the Arctic capital. With about 40 concerts in 10 venues and an extremely wide-ranging programme, the festival has a great diversity for both residents and visitors. Northern Lights Festival 2014 welcomes you to great experiences with top international music and dance of the Northern Lights!
nordlysfestivalen.no/en
Photo: Bolshoi
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Photo: Marius Fiskum/Nordlysfestivalen
Photo: Marius Fiskum/Nordlysfestivalen
FESTIVAL
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THE
Region Tromso City Sommarøy
Islands
Malangen Brygger
The region of Tromsø is like a concentrated version of Norway, offering a high density of shifting landscapes, the meeting point of several cultures, a wide range of activities and modern city life. 74
Enjoy the modern comforts of Tromsø city, and experience the high-quality and intimate hotels and restaurants surrounding the city. The region has had a distinctive impact on the history and culture of three different peoples: the Sami, Norwegians
and Kven population (people of Finnish stock). Throughout the centuries, the Tromsø region has traded in many languages: Russian, Kven, Sami, Norwegian and other European languages. In many ways, the people of Arctic Norway have always been welcoming and open to visitors from other
A visit to Tromsø is not complete without an excursion into the wider region. The entire region is reachable within a 90 minute drive. Providers of excursions include the transport in their prices, and the drive is often an exciting adventure in itself.
The Lyngen Alps
Vollan Gjestestue
Finland Camp Tamok
Sweden
nations. There are so many options when developed food with homemade cakes you travel to the Tromsø region. and bread, pay a visit to Vollan Gjestestue. For modern accommodation The landscapes are magnifi cent, with and a high quality restaurant right by the mountains swooping into the dramatic fjord, stay for a night or maybe a week sea and fjords. For many, the nature and at Malangen Brygger. To experience life landscapes provide suffi cient reason for on the coast, head for Sommarøy, which the trip. For locally produced and is by the open sea leading to the Arc-
tic Ocean. For spectacular mountains dropping vertically into the sea, visit the Lyngen Alps. For Northern Lights, dog sledding, reindeer sledding or snowmobile safaris, go to Camp Tamok and the daily excursions by Lyngsfjord Adventure. 75
Experience the raw Norwegian coast Riviera beaches, stunning views and a vibrant fishing village; Sommarøy is a great excursion from Tromsø, less than a one-hour drive from the city centre.
(+47) 77 66 40 00 sommaroy.no/en
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A more beautiful name than Sommarøy (Summer island) is hard to imagine. The origin comes from the time when most people lived on the neighbouring island, and Sommarøy was used as a summer grazing area for cows.
Sommarøy began to develop around 1900 as a consequence of the motorization of the fishing fleet. In the centuries before, when Norwegians rowed and sailed, the aim was to live
out by the coast so it was as close as possible to the fishing grounds. Sommarøy is one of the most active fishing villages in Troms.
The view from Sommarøy is spectacular. To the north you can see all the small islands in the municipality of Tromsø. The highest of these, Håja, rises 486 m and has the same shape as the Arctic Cathedral in Tromsø. Some believe that is has inspired the architect. To the south
is the steep coast of the island, while you can see the open sea to the west.
The beaches at Sommarøy are equal to those of the Riviera. Although we will not claim that the water temperature is similar as in the Mediterranean, some summers it is warm enough to have a dip. Far more common though are long, beautiful walks on the beach to collect shells and admire the view.
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We offer accommodation in a choice of cabins, fishermen′s cottages and holiday apartments in fantastic natural surroundings in beautiful Malangen, just a short drive from Tromsø.
Malangen is the regional centre for recreation, a spectacular peninsula with majestic mountains facing a scenic fjord. People from Tromsø and the vicinity visit Malangen for mountain hiking, fjord fishing and relaxation at their privately owned cabins or at Malangen Brygger , a modern tourist resort situated right on the water ’s edge in the heartland of Malangen. The hotel offers a choice of high-quality hotel rooms and seashore cabins and the opportunity to experience the Northern Light at the resort’s wilderness centre, Camp Nikka. The hotel has an a la carte menu focusing 78
on local ingredients, and a hot tub and sauna available for their guests: nothing, absolutely nothing, beats the feeling of relaxing in a hot tub outside in the cold, chilled winter air, with the Northern Lights dancing above you, reflecting into the Malangen Fjord! Malangen Brygger has strong bonds to Lyngsfjord Adventure. There are departures from Malangen Brygger to Camp Tamok Tuesdays and Saturdays, that gives you the opportunity to combine a luxurious stay outside Tromsø with the thrills of dog sledding, snowmobile safaris or the Sami culture. To get to Malangen Brygger, please make contact by e-mail or phone, to get details about transfers from Tromsø.
www.malangen.com booking@malangenbrygger. no Phone: +47 77 65 58 00 79
(+47) 77 72 23 00 vollangjestestue.no
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The Balsfjord is situated in the middle of the Troms County and runs more than 50 km inland from Tromsø. The fjord is surrounded by spectacular mountain chains that in several places are more than 1200 m high. In the southeast the fjord follows the Lyngen Alps, where some of the peaks reach over 1800 m above sea level. The bedrock is rich in lime and the hillsides are characterized by rich deciduous woods and a thriving agricultural landscape. A number of rivers and creeks flow into the fjord, especially into its inner half.
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Photo: Svein Petter Aagård – Visitnorway.com
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The
LYNGEN ALPS
The Lyngen Alps is a mountain range east of Tromsø, more than 300 km north of the Arctic Circle.
>
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Vertical 84
Landscape The Lyngen Alps are famous for off-piste skiing. You can literally ski from the summits down to the sea. The wide chain of peaks starts out on the tip of the Lyngen Peninsula, between the two big fjords, the Ullsfjord and the Lyngen Fjord. The peninsula between the fjords is 15-20 km wide, and in both fjords mountains higher than 1000 m drop vertically down in the blue water. The mountain chain continues on the peninsula, all the way to the Swedish border. This makes the Lyngen Alps more than 100 km long, depending on definition. Between the peaks, there are also more gentle hills and plateaus. Here you find beautiful valleys, forests, cascading
rivers, and countless lakes. Still the area is dominated by the wild peaks, several glaciers and deep ravines. The highest mountain, Jiehkkevarri, is 1833 m above sea level. And “above sea level� in the Lyngen Alps area means that the sea it self is the foot of the mountain. The first signs of settlement are from the Stone Age, but the first churches in the area came as late as the 18th century. The population in the area today is still low and scattered. The largest settlement, Lyngseidet, has a population of approximately 800. The wildlife is extraordinary, with
Photo: Svein Petter Aagård – Visitnorway.com
Photo: Georg Sichelschmidt – Visitnorway.com
whales, seals, white-tailed eagles and a wide variety of other bird species, as well as all kinds of Arctic mammals on land. You can catch cod, coalfish, wolf fish and haddock in the fjord. In the mountain lakes you can catch trout and Arctic char. The Lyngen Alps are famous for off-piste skiing. You can literally ski from the summits down to the sea. Several companies provide return transfers by boat to the most fabulous locations.
Photo: Fredrik Schenholm – Visitnorway.com
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Photo: Tom Georg Kiil
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Visit Lyngenfjord is your destination planner for the Lyngen fjord and area. We offer accommodation and excursions in the Lyngen Region. Lyngenfjord is surrounded by unique and untouched alpine, and is popular among experienced mountain climbers and extreme skiers, providing stunning scenery against the blue fjords. Here you will find mountain peaks rising more than 1000 m directly from the fjord, blue glaciers, cascading rivers, gleaming mountain lakes and deep ravines. Unlike the more southerly Alpine regions of Europe, snow conditions here are colder and often it is possible to start skiing from sea level, skinning all the way to a summit before an exhilarating and peaceful descent back to the sea.
 The Lyngen area offers both mountain peaks rising more than 1000 m directly from the coastline and gently sloping hills and mountains ideal for hiking and riding during summer, and cross-country skiing, dog sledding and snowmobile safaris during winter. Other tempting activities include fishing in fjords, lakes and rivers teeming with fish, scuba diving and cycling. Several businesses in the area offer guided summit hikes, snowmobile safaris, dog sledding adventures and guided ski treks. Please take contact with Visit Lyngenfjord for more information and planning of you Lyngen experience. www.visit-lyngenfjord.com phone: (+47) 77 21 08 50
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CAMP
Tamok 89
Wilderness Camp Camp Tamok is located in the Tamok Valley, a 75-minute drive from downtown Tromsø. This is the wilderness camp belonging to Lyngsfjord Adventure. It consists of several lavvu (Sami herdsmen’s tents), timber cabins, an outdoor hot tub and sauna, toilet facilities, a husky yard and a reindeer enclosure. There is no plumbing or electricity. The heating and lighting is by open fire, wood stoves and oil lamps. It is primitive, but accordingly authentic and genuine, with a special atmosphere. It is never impersonal, as there are only guided tours with a limited number of guests and staying at the camp is an Arctic experience in itself. In wintertime the camp is the starting and ending point for excursions by dog sled, snowmobile and reindeer sled. The trails 90
Dining: Warm atmosphere around the open fire in the dining tent. start from the camp and lead into wilderness areas with no signs of human activity. The camp’s large lavvu and main cabin are where the hot meals are served after sledding, ski school, snowshoeing and other winter excursions.
Photo: Loyd Rhenlund
Camp Tamok is located in an area with optimal conditions for experiencing the Northern Lights. Although Camp Tamok is located only a 75-minute drive from downtown Tromsø, it is in a different and drier climate zone, with clear inland
Wood: Traditional birch fire wood.
Camp Tamok: Located outside inhabitated areas, at the start of the largest wilderness in Europe. Photo: Loyd Rehnlund
mountain weather. The dry climate generates many cloud-free night skies in winter, as well as during summer. The camp’s location away from the bright artificial lights and inhabited areas makes it perfect for your own Arctic experience - es-
pecially also for taking photos of the Northern Lights. Camp Tamok is of course the destination for a guided Northern Lights visit. You can also choose to spend the night at the wilderness camp. The camp is situated 280 m abo-
Photo: Sweet Films
ve sea level, with stable snow conditions. You can often go dog sledding in the period October-May, when down at sea level is often no snow at all at the same time.
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SAMI 92
Culture
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100 YEARS AGO: A Sami family poses by a lavvu.
People of the North The Sami histor y and ancient religion are full of tales and mysteries. A long time before any national borders existed, the Sami people of Arctic Europe lived in a wide area that stretches over the regions now known as the northern parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland and the Russian Kola Peninsula. This area is internationally best known as Lapland, but the Sami people of Norway call their area Sapmi. Norway is the country with the largest population of Sami people, around 40,000. In the village of Karasjok in Northern Norway, the Sami people have their own parliament, working to represent the Sami population, and to protect
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DRUM: Ornament on a sami shaman drum.
and promote their unique culture. The Sami flag has a circle as symbol for the sun (red) and the moon (blue). These colours may also be found in the characteristic detailed embroidery on the traditional Sami clothing. Most of all the Sami people are known for their free semi-nomadic mountain lives, constantly moving reindeer flocks between the summer grazing land by the coast and the Lapland tundra in the winter. There are about 100,000 reindeer in the Norwegian part of Lapland. The very tasty reindeer meat is considered to be healthy. The clothing and traditional
SAMI FLAG: The flag represents sami people living in the Nordic countries and Russia.
handicraft of the Sami people (known as duodji) shows that their society has always been very aesthetically oriented. Regular artefacts have been decorated and richly ornamented. Duodji training used to be a natural part of the upbringing and from ancient times was known as a Sami specialty. In the old days, the Sami shamans (known as noaiddit) had a lot of respect in the area, also from other Norwegians. There are countless stories of shaman achievements, both in terms of clairvoyance and their abilities to use witchcraft.
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Tromsø Adventure is your preferred incoming tour operator during your visit to Tromsø. We offer all-inclusive tours for tourists visiting Tromsø and the city`s beautiful surroundings. The company consists of several destinations and activities: Malangen Brygger, Sommarøy Arctic Hotel, Arctic Guide Service, Lyngsfjord Adventure and
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Din Taxi. Tromsø Adventure offers a combination of different activities and destinations in three and four-day packages. We specialize in soft adventures for the average tourist, and the main activities will be sea fishing,, boat trips, dog sledding, snowmobile safaris, whale safaris, winter fun activities, Sami culture and, of
course, Northern Lights experiences. Many of the activities are available at Touch-screens at selected places in the centre of Tromsø: Rica Ishavshotel, Hotel Comfort Saga, Hotel Radisson Blu, Hotel Thon, Rica Grand Hotel Tromsø and Polaria. Welcome to an all-inclusive tour in the Tromsø region.
Magasinet er produsert av Lyngsfjord Adventure AS, www.lyngsfjord.com
ADVENTURES