Why Sortland?

The Vesteraalen archipelago contains many magnificent islands with the most stunning natural surroundings imaginable. This is a place that really brings you back in time to what life was like hundreds of years ago. People still live on small islands where boats provide the only means of transport to school, shops and communal services. This is incredibly rare in today’s society and offers a true representation of how to live off the land. Fishing is by far the largest industry here and, owing to the abundance of fish, you will find magnificent whales too. The Vesteraalen Islands are home to whales all year round. In Vesteraalen, you can see the Northern Lights during autumn and winter and as summer approaches the Midnight Sun graces us with its presence.

What to see & do in Sortland

With the Northern Lights in autumn and winter, and the Midnight Sun in the summer, Vesteraalen offers a colour spectrum without equal! Vesteraalen has fantastic experiences for those who want to experience beautiful nature, majestic mountains and fjords, white sandy beaches and the magnificent western coast near the open sea. There is a wide range of things to see and do. You can go to Inga Sami Siida to meet the reindeer and experience the exotic and indigenous Sami culture. Alternatively, you can experience Nyksund, a former fishing village which after being abandoned for many years is now one of Vesteraalen’s main tourist attractions. Although Nyksund is now a vibrant little village, you can still see and experience how people lived 100 years ago. Activities available in Nyksund include sea rafting, fishing trips or seal and bird safaris – all surrounded by the magnificent nature Vesteraalen has to offer.

Who is this destination suitable for?

Vesteraalen has something that suits every age group and personal interest. If trying new things and challenging yourself is something for you, we have hiking, sea rafting, fishing and can organise paddling. If you are more interested in art and music or prefer a calmer and active holiday, you can visit the local galleries or attend a concert at an exciting location. Vesteraalen has something for everyone.