With a fjord on one side and the northerly meeting point of three Scandinavian countries on the other, this region has an exciting mix of cultures and landscapes.
The municipality of Storfjord extends southeast from the steeply pitched banks of Lyngen fjord to the borders of both Sweden and Finland. Experience Sami culture in waterfront Skibotn and camp near the still waters. South of Storfjord, reach the borders of three countries and see the cairn that marks the division.
The small village of Oteren lies at the southern tip of the fjord. Admire the rugged peaks rising up from the Signaldalen valley. Drive along the waterfront to the more populous town of Skibotn, which looks out onto the large fjord. The village has a peaceful harbor located around the mouth of the river Ivgojohka, which draws water from the stunning nearby lakes Rihpojávri and Gálggojávri. Watch the boats gently bobbing in the harbor. Join a boat tour around the fjords to get an insight into the beauty and geology of the deep waterways.
Explore the beautiful Skibotn valley to find quiet pine forests sprinkled with rare orchids. This area’s magnificent scenery and relatively dry microclimate make it an ideal camping spot. Check out the village’s late 19th-century church Skibotn Chapel. Head to the local markets to experience the fascinating mix of Sami, Finnish and Norwegian cultures. Sami is the area’s original heritage, but this village has been a meeting point for the different ethnic groups for generations.
Find another fascinating meeting point at the Treriksrøysa, a cairn that represents the borders of Norway, Sweden and Finland. There are no fences in this popular hiking destination, so you can hop between countries in a matter of steps. Hike through breathtaking pine and birch forests, exploring the network of lakes and waterways.
Reach the dramatic landscapes of Storfjord by flying to Bardufoss Airport and driving 1.5 hours northeast to Skibotn. Some of the villages in the region have vacation houses for rent. Alternatively, camp at the Skibotn camping sites or try wilderness camping in the surrounding greenery.
