Tromso & Kvaloya Fjords - Arctic Norway
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THE TROMSO & KVALOYA FJORDS
Location: Troms
Overview:
Tromso and Kvaloya offer a nice array of contrasts. Tromso itself is tucked nicely among grand peaks and surrounded by water. The pyramid peaks of Balsfjord make for an excellent entry into town. Kvaloya has stunning alpine peaks and beautiful fjords. Grotfjord on the North of Kvaloya is one of the best (and quitest) fjords in Norway. Erdsfjord offer pretty views. And the coastal feel of Sommaroy adds to the diversity of the region.
Highlights:
- Grotfjord, Kvaloya . . . a tiny, aqua-marine, vertical gem
- Hiking Tromsdalen behind Tromso
- Kvaloya scenic driving and hiking
- Sunset at Skittenelv over Grotsundet
- Huge pyramid peaks of Balsfjord on the drive into Tromso
Hiking in Tromso & Kvaloya, Norway:
Tromso has the best immediately-available hiking of any city in Norway (or just about anywhere for that matter).
Right in town, from the top of the Fjellheisen cable car (or walk it from the bottom if motivated) . . . a nice hike along the ridge on Tromsdalen with view back to the Kvaloya range. There are several intermediate summits along the ridge, or you can continue all the way to the main summit (which is strenuous even if you start by taking hte cable car). Overall, great views of the surrounding region, and lots of option for how far to go.
And for the definitive hike on Kvaloya, the strenuous climb up Blåmannen is it. About 5km north of Ersfjordbotn is the marked trailhead. 5 hours Plus or minus
Camping in Tromso & Kvaloya, Norway:
As the major city in the Far north Norway, Tromso has lots of urban lodging options that visitors should experience, especially given that the surroundings get remote quite fast. For camping, there are a variety of options on the outskirts of town, such as Skittenelv (on the water, East towards Ullsfjord).
For a great rough- camping spot, check out Kvaloya off the main road. Grotfjord has two excellent spots, one at the fjord head under a ring of mountains and streams, and also on a wide beach along the far fjord side. Either are an incredibly scenic spot.
Driving in Tromso & Kvaloya, Norway:
The roads around Tromso have some major highways. The key is to experience the backroads. Highly recommended is the North spur on Kvaloya from Ersfjord, past Mt Blamannen, and around to Grotfjord . . . one of the most scenic fjords in Arctic Norway.
Key Links and Publications About Tromso & Kvaloya, Norway
- Visitor's Guide to Day Hiking Around Tromso -- eiscat.com
Interactive Map of The Tromso & Kvaloya Fjords
Norwegian Place Names:
Blamannen = Blåmannen