Honningsvaag

From the small fishing town of Honningsvåg, you’ll drive through wild, desolate and sometimes dramatic terrain. Your 45 minute journey will take you along the shore and then climbs the North Cape at a latitude of 71° 10' 21". The North Cape is the point where the Norwegian Sea, part of the Atlantic Ocean, meets the Barents Sea, part of the Arctic Ocean. The globe monument erected here in 1978 has become the actual symbol for the North Cape.

At the North Cape Hall, you are free to explore the ‘Experience Centre’, which includes a film about the area through the seasons, as well as exhibits of the North Cape’s fascinating history. The Hall also includes a panoramic restaurant, gift shop, small chapel and a post office for that sought after ‘North Cape’ postmark. If you wish, you can stroll outside to the top of the cliff and enjoy the panorama. Even on the most pleasant day, the wind can be chilly; so if you plan to walk around outside during your visit, you are advised to take a warm jacket.

Honningsvåg is often referred to as the capital of the rugged and dramatic Magerøya Island. Embark on a leisurely drive through the little town, past the airstrip and along the Skipsfjord towards the plateau. A stop will be made at the fishing village of Kamøyvær at the head of the narrow fjord-arm. This pretty village is home to the ‘Gallery East of the Sun’, which exhibits arts, handicrafts and books, all inspired by the island and its ever changing seasons. The artist has her workshop inside the Gallery and will be happy to explain her unusual works of art.

As you continue to the top of the plateau, you’ll be able to see some of the reindeer which roam this area in the summer months. These reindeer belong to the Sami people who bring their livestock out to the coastal islands as soon as the snow disappears. Reaching a height of 984 feet above sea level and providing the weather is clear, you will be able to see the ‘Horn’, a cliff formation protruding from the North Cape cliff in the distance.

Further along is Skarsvåg, the most northerly fishing village in the world, where you’ll stop at the North Cape Christmas and Winter House. This tiny, but cosy cottage contains a craft shop with a wide selection of knitwear, textiles and ceramics, which you may wish to purchase in readiness for December.

The giant King Crab was introduced to the Barents Sea by Russian scientists during the 1960’s. The crab thrived in these waters, and spread quite rapidly to the west where it can now be found along the north Norwegian coast. As the number of this species is now into the millions, it naturally consumes a great deal and there is concern that it may have an impact on the local eco-system. Controlled fishing is now allowed. The King Crab can live to 30 years old, measure up to 6 feet between its claws and weigh as much as 22 pounds. The catch in the crab pots will most likely be smaller, between 6 and 15 pounds.

After being kitted out in your survival suit and given a safety briefing, the deep-sea raft with a driver/guide will set off towards the Sarnesfjord to inspect the crab pots. The duration of the RIB ride will be approximately 1 hour.

As you walk around Honningsvåg your guide will provide a fascinating insight into local life in this small and northerly town. Your first stop will be at the small North Cape Museum, which illustrates various aspects of local history, culture and the environment through interesting exhibitions and displays. Next, you’ll continue on to the quaint 19th century neo-Gothic Honningsvåg Church, which is the town’s oldest building.

The highlight of your walk is a visit to the unique Artico Ice Bar, this modern and elegant bar is re-created every year by a group of aspiring artists. The team go to the Lapland Lakes every winter to source the most exquisite natural ice to build their cool masterpiece. The ice, snow and 23°F temperature adds a bit of winter magic as you enjoy refreshments of 2 non-alcoholic drinks (one of which will be served in an ice shot glass). The bar has a seating area covered in warm reindeer skins and if you are feeling adventurous you could experience the novelty of sitting in a cosy igloo. As you leave the bar, there will be time to browse its extensive gift shop which contains Arctic goods, Nordic clothing, reindeer skins, decorations, children’s presents etc.

A leisurely stroll back along the harbour will bring you back to the pier.