Sommarøy - my paradise in northern Norway
If you love beautiful nature and the combination of mountains, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water, Sommarøy is a place you should know about. The name alone gives me a good feeling. Sommarøy means “summer island” in Norwegian.
During the summer months, when the midnight sun never sets and the beaches glow white against turquoise water, the name feels spot on. In winter, the island transforms into a completely different world, with snowy landscapes, polar nights and some of the best opportunities to see the Northern Lights. Some people compare Sommarøy to the Caribbean, while others call it a miniature version of Lofoten. I understand both comparisons.
Sommarøy is a small fishing village on the outer coast of Tromsø Municipality, about one hour from Tromsø airport. This is the end of the road, with the open sea stretching out in front of you. Here you find dramatic coastal scenery, peace and quiet, and a thriving local community. I fell completely in love with Sommarøy the first time I visited, and in 2021 I bought a seaside cabin here. The cabin is connected to Sommarøy Arctic Hotel and is rented out through the hotel when I am not using it myself.
For me, Sommarøy is my happy place. The nature, the light and the calm atmosphere does something to me. I come here to breathe, recharge and be present. Because this place means so much to me, I wanted to create a travel guide with my favourite tips and experiences for anyone curious about visiting this beautiful part of Northern Norway. My hope is that you will fall in love with Sommarøy too, and experience it with the same sense of respect and appreciation that helps preserve its unique character.
I also organize yearly group trips to Sommarøy in summer. You can read more about these trips under “Reiser” on my website (click here). I can also tailor private trips for companies, groups of friends and smaller groups who want a personal travel experience in Northern Norway.
(Photo: Sommarøy Arctic Hotel)
Sommarøy - a beautiful island communiity near Tromsø
The Sommarøy area consists of the islands of Sommarøy and Hillesøy, connected by a bridge, as well as numerous smaller islands and rocky islets scattered along the coast. Fewer than 350 people live here, and the closeness to nature and the peaceful atmosphere is a big part of what makes the place so special.
Sommarøy is a living fishing village with its own history, culture and strong identity. You will find white sandy beaches, turquoise water, small coastal roads, mountains with 360-degree views and a local community that makes you feel welcome.
Where to stay in Sommarøy
There are several accommodation options at Sommarøy, depending on whether you want a hotel room, a seaside cabin, camping or a more private stay.
- Sommarøy Arctic Hotel - hotel rooms and seaside cabins
- Sommarøy Camping & Marina
- Båthuset Ecolodge
- Private rentals and Airbnb
My seaside cabin can be rented through Sommarøy Arctic Hotel when I am not using it myself (cabin 65).
(Photo: Sommarøy Arctic Hotel)
How to get to Sommarøy from Tromsø
The nearest airport is Tromsø Airport. From there, the drive to Sommarøy takes about one hour. The journey is an experience in itself, with fjords, mountains and sea views along much of the route.
You can rent a car, take a taxi, arrange transport through the hotel or travel by public bus. If you plan to use the bus, check the timetable before you book your flights, as departures are limited and schedules may change with the season.
If you are driving and would like a nice place to stop for coffee or lunch on the way, I recommend Bryggejentene on Kvaløya. It is only a small detour of a few minutes and well worth it. Bryggejentene is both a café and an interior shop, so you can eat, have a coffee and browse a little before continuing towards Sommarøy.
Public bus to Sommarøy
The local public transport in Troms is operated through Svipper. If you are coming from the airport and staying at Sommarøy Arctic Hotel, search for a bus route from “Tromsø lufthavn” to “Hillesøy kryss”. If you are coming from Tromsø center, the main bus stop is “Prosteneset”. There are usually only a few departures a day, and there is usually no bus on Saturdays, so always check the updated timetable before travelling. Use the Svipper website or app for updated travel information: www.svipper.no.
Arctic Route in summer
In recent summers, it has been possible to book a seat on the Arctic Route, a seasonal bus route connecting Tromsø, Sommarøy, Senja, Andøya, Vesterålen and Lofoten. This can be a good option if you want to travel further along the coast and explore more of Northern Norway without renting a car.
The route does not stop at Tromsø Airport, so you need to get to Tromsø city centre first. The Arctic Route is more expensive than the local public bus, but it offers different departure times and can be a comfortable and convenient way to travel between Tromsø and Sommarøy in summer. Read more here.
Shuttle, taxi and rental car
Sommarøy Arctic Hotel offers transport options between Tromsø airport, Tromsø city centre and the hotel. Contact the hotel directly for updated prices and availability. Renting a car gives you the most flexibility, especially if you want to explore the area at your own pace, visit nearby beaches and hiking trails, or take day trips to places such as Senja. During winter, however, driving conditions can be challenging, with snow, ice, strong winds and rapidly changing weather. If you have little or no experience driving on winter roads, I would recommend choosing other transportation options.
Best hikes and nature experiences in Sommarøy
There are many beautiful hikes in the Sommarøy area. Some are short and accessible, while others take you higher up for even bigger views. The mountains are not very high, but the views are impressive because you are surrounded by sea, islands and open sky.
Hillesøytoppen
Hillesøytoppen is my personal favorite. It is only 211 meters above sea level, and the view from the top is absolutely worth the effort. The trail is steep in places, and ropes have been installed along parts of the route. The hike starts close to Sommarøy Arctic Hotel, so you do not need a car if you are staying there.
Ørnfløya
Ørnfløya is another favorite of mine. It is an easy hike with a big reward. The summit is 155 meters above sea level and is located about 4 kilometers from the hotel. From the top, you get beautiful views of Sommarøy, Senja, the surrounding islands and the open sea.
Sørvikakslan
Sørviksakslan is 190 meters above sea level and around 6 kilometers from the hotel. It is a lovely viewpoint and a good option if you want a walk with beautiful coastal scenery. You can go for a short hike or a long one.
Lakstinden
Lakstinden is a longer hike up towards the wind turbines. The summit is 455 meters above sea level. If you have a car, you can park near Sandvika beach and start from there.
(This photo was taken on the way up to Ørnfløya. Lakstinden is the mountain on the right, with the wind turbines.)
Kayaking, SUP and sea experiences in Sommarøy
If you really want to experience Sommarøy from the best angle, I recommend getting out on the water. Kayaking here is something special. The water is crystal clear, the colours are almost unreal on a sunny day, and you can stop at small beaches along the way.
Sommarøy Adventure offers kayak rental and guided tours. This is a wonderful way to get close to the landscape and understand why Sommarøy is often called the Caribbean of Northern Norway. If you would like to try Hobie kayaks, which are pedal kayaks, 69Nord offers rentals during the summer season. Many children find these especially fun. They also rent out SUP boards and bicycles and offer accommodation. Check their current prices and availability here.
Where to eat in Sommarøy
Sommarøy is a small place, so you should not expect a large restaurant scene. But there are several options, and honestly, a packed lunch with a sea view can be just as good as a restaurant meal here.
- Sommarøy Arctic Hotel
- Havfrua Kro - casual food / fast food
- Prestvika strandkafé
- Hillesøy Husflidlag - often serves waffles on Saturdays between 11 and 14
- A packed lunch outdoors, preferably with a view
Prestvika Beach Café is one of my favorite places on Sommarøy. It is located in an old boathouse right by the beach, with a sea view that makes everything taste a little better. They are not open every day, so check their opening hours before you go. Instagram is often the best place for updated information.
Matkroken - more than a grocery store
Matkroken is the small local grocery store on Sommarøy, but it is more than just a place to buy food. In the basement, you will find a small second-hand shop and a local museum. Check the opening hours, as they may vary.
The store also has a little corner called “Kaillkroken”, where older local men meet every morning for coffee. Their own coffee cups, each with a name, hang on the wall. It is a small but lovely glimpse into everyday life in this fishing village.
Day trip from Sommarøy to Senja
From Brensholmen, close to Sommarøy, you can take the ferry to Senja. The crossing takes about 40 minutes. You cannot reserve a space, so arrive early, especially in the busy season.
Senja is a great option for a day trip if you have a car. There is a lot to see, from dramatic viewpoints and beaches to small fishing villages and coastal roads. If you have time, it is absolutely worth exploring.
Midnight sun and Northern Lights in Sommarøy
From mid-May until the end of July, the sun does not set in this part of Northern Norway. The bright evenings and nights are hard to describe if you have not experienced them before. You can go for a walk in the middle of the night and still have daylight around you.
In winter, visitors from all over the world come to Northern Norway to see the Northern Lights. Sommarøy is a wonderful place for this because there is little light pollution and wide-open views of the sky. Of course, the Northern Lights are never guaranteed, but when they appear here, it can be unforgettable.
(Photo: Sommarøy Arctic Hotel)
When is the best time to visit Sommarøy?
Sommarøy can be visited all year round, but the experience changes completely with the seasons. Summer gives you long bright days, midnight sun, hiking, kayaking and time outdoors. Autumn can bring beautiful colours and quieter days. Winter is the season for Northern Lights, snow, storms and a wilder Arctic atmosphere. Sommarøy has something special in every season, as long as you come prepared for changing weather.
Practical tips before visiting Sommarøy
- Bring layers, even in summer. The weather can change quickly.
- Bring good shoes if you want to hike.
- Check public transport before booking your flights if you do not plan to rent a car.
- Book accommodation early as this is a popular place.
- Pack swimwear if you want to try the beach, sauna or cold-water swimming.
- Do not plan every minute. Sommarøy is also a place for slowing down.
- If possible, stay for more than one night. Sommarøy is a place to slow down, not just tick off a list of sights. Give yourself time to enjoy the nature, the light and the atmosphere. This is also a more sustainable way to travel.
Explore Sommarøy with me
I hope these tips make it easier to plan your own visit to Sommarøy. It really is one of my favorite places in Northern Norway, and I never get tired of the views, the light or the feeling I get when I arrive here.
If you would like to experience Sommarøy together with others, I arrange annual group trips here and can also tailor trips for companies and smaller groups. You can read more under “Reiser” on my website.
For more photos and travel inspiration, you can follow me on Instagram. @bentes_sommaroy is my English-language account dedicated entirely to Sommarøy, while @bentes_world is where I share travel tips, experiences and inspiration from around the world.
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