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Norwegian Adventure 2025
  • Aimee Onderlinde
  • Shannon Jones
  • David Onderlinde
  • Ron Jones

Norwegian Adventure 2025

Join us on our adventure as we explore the remote island of Senja and the City of Tromsø in Northern Norway. Read more
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  • Trip start
    January 31, 2025
    Norwegian Adventure 2025

    Off We Go!

    January 31 in the United States ⋅ 🌧 37 °F

    Today we began our long journey to the Island of Senja in Northern Norway.

    Dorr ➡️ Detroit ( 2 1/2hrs 🚗)

    Detroit ➡️ Newark, NJ (2 1/2hrs ✈️)

    Newark ➡️ Copenhagen, Denmark (7 1/2 hrs✈️) 

    Copenhagen ➡️ Tromsø, Norway (2 1/2hrs ✈️) We met up with Ron & Shannon in Copenhagen.

    Tromsø ➡️ Senja (3hrs 🚗)

    Northern Norway is known for the midnight sun in the summer and the polar night in the winter.

    The midnight sun is a natural phenomenon in Tromsø, Norway, where the sun is visible 24 hours a day during the summer from the end of May to the end of July.

    The polar night in Tromsø, Norway is a period of several weeks when the sun doesn't rise. It usually begins around November 27th and lasts until January 15th. There is a subtle twilight light from about 9 AM to 2 PM when the sky is full of colors, including yellow, orange, red, pink, and purple sunsets.

    During our stay sunrise will occur at a little after 8am and sunset will begin at 2:30pm. By 4pm it’s dark enough to need headlights while driving.    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    David & Aimee's adorable cabin1Inside the cute Silda cabinWhat a view!Cabin viewRon & Shannon's awesome lighthouse cabinInside the lighthouse cabinInside the lighthouse cabinThe Island of Senja is off the northern coast of Norway

    Hello Norway!

    February 1 in Norway ⋅ ☁️ 34 °F

    After a day and a half of traveling, we arrived in Tromsø and drove 3 hours to Norwegian Wild, our home away from home for the next 6 days on the beautiful island of Senja.

    With an area of 1,586.3 square kilometres (612.5 sq mi), Senja is Norway’s second largest island (outside of the Svalbard archipelago), located roughly 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Its landscape varies greatly from east to west where you get a mix of sea, mountains, beaches, fishing villages and forests all within a day’s drive.

    The Northern part of this Nordic island boasts of countless narrow fjords with jagged cliffs plunging straight into the sea.

    Senja is often referred to as "Norway in miniature", as the island's diverse scenery reflects almost the entire span of Norwegian natural geography and is called a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts! We were left awestruck by vast fjords and one of the most dramatic coastal roads in the country.    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Hot tub sunrise
    Hot tub sunriseSunrise viewBridge with the tunnel through the mountainWe ate lunch at the white building in the distanceOur lunch stopOur lunch stopWe saw a juvenile moose on our way back to the cabin.Our awesome studded tires

    Exploring North West Senja

    February 2 in Norway ⋅ ☀️ 27 °F

    Road Trip! After catching an amazing sunrise, we explored the areas of Silsand, Langbaren and Gryllefjord. We stopped in the town of Langbaren for lunch.

    The roads around Senja are no joke! They are all covered in about 2-3 inches of ice and extremely slick. Luckily we found out today that the tires on our rental car have metal studs! In Northern Norway, all vehicles must be equipped with winter tires from 15 October to 1 May.

    Road maintenance consists on plowing, grading the ice and applying crushed black rocks for traction.    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Sunset from the warmth of our cabin
    1Lights over the cabin

    The Northern Lights 💜💚💙

    Feb 2–3 in Norway ⋅ 🌙 21 °F

    We arrived back at our home away from home just in time to catch a breathtaking sunset, followed by an incredible display of the northern lights.

    To the naked eye, the aurora appeared as streaks of gray, white, and faint green, but through a phone screen, the colors came to life in vivid detail.Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Sunrise at the cabin
    Our daily breakfast spreadIt's a little windy outBergsbotn viewing platformBergsbotn viewing platform, offering magnificent view of Bergsfjorden & the surrounding mountains.Bergsbotn viewing platform

    Road Trippin’ to the North East, Part 1

    February 3 in Norway ⋅ ☀️ 16 °F

    I lost count of how many times I said “wow” today—it was that incredible. We hit the road on the Senja National Tourist Route, venturing into remote villages on the north and east sides of the island. Our journey took us through several mountain pass tunnels, where we braved freezing gusts of wind, but every challenge was more than worth it.

    The reward? Breathtaking views of towering mountains and stunning fjords, including the 44-meter-long Bergsbotn viewing platform. From the platform we enjoyed a magnificent view of Bergsfjorden and the high surrounding mountains.    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Oksen Mountain (also known as the "Devil's Teeth")
    Oksen Mountain (also known as the "Devil's Teeth")Salteriet Restaurant & BarSalteriet Restaurant & BarOne of many mountain pass tunnelsConcrete tunnel to divert water from flowing over the roadRon's lovely new earmuffs that he foundHusøy islandHusøy islandHusøy island harborThe bridge connecting Senja Island to the mainland

    Road Trippin’ to the North East, Part 2

    February 3 in Norway ⋅ ☀️ 14 °F

    Part 2 of our northern island road trip along the Senja National Tourist Route started with more wow moments as we took in the amazing views of Oksen Mountain (also known as the "Devil's Teeth").

    Oksen is a peninsula at the north side of the Hardanger Fjord. Its strategic location made it part of the ancient coastal defense system. In times of unrest, a bonfire would be lit at the mountain, signalizing that unfriendly ships were coming, and that the local defense should mobilize. This system was in use until the end of the Napoleonic wars.

    For lunch, we stopped in the village of Senjahopen. Located along the Medfjorden on the northwest part of Senja, it is one of the most important fishing villages on the island.

    Another memorable stop after lunch was the Husøy island overlook. This small village covers the entire island of Husøy which is located in the Øyfjorden off the northwest coast of Senja. Husøy is home to around 300 people and is Senja’s most active fishing community.     Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Beautiful blue bay on the cost of Stonglandseidet.Beautiful blue bay on the cost of Stonglandseidet.David and Ron ventured out in the cold wind to taste the salt water.

    A Quest to Find Rudolph 🦌

    February 4 in Norway ⋅ ❄️ 21 °F

    On Tuesday, we set out for the remote west side of the island, where we’d heard reindeer are often spotted in the winter.

    Mission accomplished!

    We saw several herds of wild reindeer grazing in fields and even right alongside the road at times. They were much smaller than I expected, which gave me a new appreciation for the line from ’Twas the Night Before Christmas that mentions “eight tiny reindeer.”

    Here are some fun facts about reindeer…

    🦌 Female reindeer also have antlers - it's not just the males.

    🦌 Reindeer can see ultraviolet light. Unlike humans, reindeer can see UV light with the naked eye - an adaptation which is vital for their survival over the dark winter months.

    🦌 Reindeer may not be able to fly, but they can swim. The air trapped in their coat fibres, not only helps to keep reindeer warm, but also makes them buoyant.

    🦌 Their eyes change color!
    Reindeer eyes change color with the seasons. In the summer, their eyes are gold. However, in winter, their eye colour changes to a deep blue, which helps the reindeers see better in the low winter light.    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Look out windowOne of many underground barracksGerman 150 mm gun with lookout room underneathThe fort was armed with four German 15 cm SK C/28 gunsThe fort was armed with 150 mm gunsEntrance to one of the 15 cm SK C/28 German gun bunkersInside one of the gun bunkers housing the 15 cm SK C/28 German gunDavid in the gunners seatLoaders seatOne of the The 15 cm SK C/28 German medium-caliber naval guns used during World War llView from the point looking out to seaEntrance to a huge maze of underground rooms & tunnelsUnderground tunnelsUnderground stairwayExploring the maze of underground rooms & tunnelsExploring the maze of underground rooms & tunnelsExploring the maze of underground rooms & tunnelsExploring the maze of underground rooms & tunnelsExploring the maze of underground rooms & tunnels

    WW ll Fort Skrolsvik

    February 4 in Norway ⋅ ❄️ 25 °F

    While exploring the southwestern tip of Senja, we spent a few hours crawling through bunkers, scrambling over rocky terrain, and carefully avoiding remnants of old barbed wire. The abandoned German World War II fort, with its maze-like underground tunnels and old bunkers, was both fascinating and eerie. 👻

    Originally built by the Germans in 1941 to control shipping routes to Narvik, Skrolsvik Fort remained in use by the Norwegian military until 1989. Today, much of the site is still intact, including several bunkers and imposing German artillery, offering a haunting glimpse into its wartime past.    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    The aurora above Ron & Shannon's lighthouse cabin

    Cherry On Top

    February 4 in Norway ⋅ ☁️ 25 °F

    After a full day of exploring the far southwestern tip of the island, we enjoyed a delicious dinner in Stonglandseidet before returning to our cozy Norwegian Wild home. There, we unwound with a relaxing sauna, card games, and an unforgettable surprise—the aurora dancing through the fast-moving clouds was the cherry on top of a fantastic day. 💚Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Waking up to fresh snow ❄️
    There is free firewood throughout the park to take and use in designated areasThey found some deep snow 😉Reindeer sighting! We were told afterward that it's unusual to see them in the parkJust one of the old silver-grey natural deadwood monumentsJust one of the old silver-grey natural deadwood monumentsA view of our Norwegian Wild home from the National ParkBack home and ready for hot cocoa!Nice way to end the day!

    Snow! ❄️

    February 5 in Norway ⋅ ❄️ 25 °F

    Senja is a breathtaking island, and we were lucky to have Ånderdalen National Park right across the street from our cabins.

    On our last full day on Senja, we finally woke up to fresh snowfall! With rain likely on the way in the coming days, we seized the moment, heading into the park for a beautiful four-mile snowshoe trek after breakfast. 🌲

    In Ånderdalen, the trees are allowed to stand until they die and are transformed into silver-grey natural monuments. It takes many hundreds of years for the trees to become like this. Free firewood is offered in stands throughout the park to deter hikers from using standing dead wood. We saw several of these cool looking grey twisted trees along our hike.    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Our travel route around Senja over the past 5 days
    Drive from Senja to the Tromsø

    Tromsø Bound 🚗

    February 6 in Norway ⋅ 🌬 37 °F

    We explored so much of this stunning island in just five days and now truly understand why Senja is often called “Norway in miniature.” It’s a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with its vast fjords, rugged peaks, and one of the most breathtaking coastal roads in the country.

    With Senja behind us, we’re now setting up our home base in Tromsø for the rest of our Norwegian adventure. Located on the island of Tromsøya, it’s about a three-hour drive northwest of Senja.

    Originally, we planned to stay on Senja until Friday, but with rain in the forecast, we decided to pivot and head to Tromsø a day early. Northern Norway has been experiencing unusually warm temperatures—so much so that some days were actually cooler back home in Michigan!

    Excited to see what Tromsø has in store for us next!    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Trolls are an important part of the cultural heritage in NorwayWe fell in love with Norwegian wafflesBeautiful Library 📚Yep! Reindeer hotdogs

    Exploring Tromsø

    Feb 6–7 in Norway ⋅ 🌧 41 °F

    We arrived in Tromsø late Thursday afternoon and took advantage of some downtime that evening and on Friday to explore the city before our scheduled excursions on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

    Tromsø, situated on the island of Tromsøya, is a vibrant and thriving city located 350 km above the Arctic Circle. With a population of 76,000, it holds the title of the largest city at this latitude. Surrounded by mountains on all sides, Tromsø is naturally shielded from the harshest Arctic storms, making it a vital urban hub in northern Norway. It’s also home to world’s northernmost university 📖 and brewery! 🍺

    The city has a rich history, from its deep connections with the Sámi people to its role as the main departure port for North Pole expeditions. Today, Tromsø is booming as travelers from around the world flock here to chase the Northern Lights, earning its reputation as one of the best places on Earth to witness this natural wonder.    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Traditional Sami clothing
    Ohhhhh Deer 🦌 We fed about 300 from a herd of over 3000 deer1We ate reindeer stew after feeding the reindeer 😬Our Sami historian & storytellerStory time in the Sami lavvuSunset on the bus ride homeSinging a traditional Sami JoikShannon feeding the reindeer

    Sami Reindeer Community

    February 8 in Norway ⋅ ☁️ 37 °F

    We happen to be visiting Norway during the celebration of Sámi National Day on February 6th.

    The Sami are the indigenous people of Northern Europe. They are counted among the Arctic indigenous people. The Sami people of Norway have a unique culture and traditions and speak ancient languages.

    The Sami are descendants of nomadic peoples who have lived in northern Europe for thousands of years. Historically, Sami people were nomadic. Until quite recently, reindeer herding was the basis of the Sami economy and way of life. They would migrate with reindeer herds, living in tents or huts. There are about 80,000 Sami people in the world today, and they are spread around Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. About half of the Sami people live in Norway, and the Sami people have traditionally been reindeer herders.

    We traveled 90 minutes by bus to one of the local Sami communities to feed reindeer and learn about their culture.    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Beautiful view of the cathedral & bridge joining Tromsø to the mainland
    View going up from inside the cable carInside the cable car. Good view of the bridge & cathedral on the far right sideWow! What a breathtaking viewCafe at the topAerial view of the cafe & viewing platform

    Arctic Cathedral & Fjellheisen Cable Car

    February 8 in Norway ⋅ 🌙 34 °F

    After visiting the Sami community, we returned to Tromsø beneath the first clear skies we’d seen in days—perhaps the last we’d see for the rest of our trip. With the weather finally in our favor, we were eager to make the most of what might be our final chance to witness the Northern Lights.

    It felt like the perfect night for a walk. Crossing the impressive bridge that links Tromsø to the mainland, we were met with the striking sight of the Arctic Cathedral, its sharp angles illuminated against the darkening sky. From there, we made our way to the Fjellheisen cable car, hoping for breathtaking views of the city—and, with a bit of luck, the elusive Aurora Borealis. This vantage point is said to be the best in Tromsø for catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights, and we could only hope the night would deliver.

    By day the Arctic Cathedral is impressive, but at night it’s breathtaking. Tromsdalen Church, also called the Arctic Cathedral, was inaugurated on November 19, 1965. The 11 aluminum-coated concrete slabs on each side of the roof give the cathedral its shape.

    The main entrance in the west wall is surrounded by a large glass facade with a distinctive cross. The east wall's stunning glass mosaic was only added in 1972.

    The Fjellheisen Cable Car goes from Solliveien in Tromsdalen up to Storsteinen Mountain. The lower station is located on Tromsø's mainland, 50 meters above sea level. The upper station, Fjellstua, is located 421 meters above sea level. The trip takes four minutes.

    Fjellheisen is Tromsø's most popular tourist destination to enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Tromsø, with a near endless view of islands, fjords, mountains and sea.

    The view did not disappoint! 😱    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025

    Lights over the City! 💚

    February 8 in Norway ⋅ 🌙 32 °F

    While the panoramic views of Tromsø from the top were breathtaking, our true hope was to witness the Northern Lights.

    After an hour of waiting in the crisp night air, our excitement began to wane. We retreated to the café, warming up with cocoa and waffles, accepting that tonight might not be our night. But before heading back down, we stepped onto the viewing platform for one last look—and there they were! What began as a faint green haze soon blossomed into a mesmerizing display, dancing across the sky above the city’s twinkling lights.Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Changing room in the front hull of the boatChanging room in the front hull of the boatStairs from the hull to the main deck cabinWaffle brunch is served!Wood-fired hot tub on the viewing deckTraditional wood-fired sauna with a great viewDry sauna zen lounge and Turkish hammam (steam room)

    Sauna on a Boat? Yes Please!

    February 9 in Norway ⋅ 🌬 34 °F

    After a long Saturday spent feeding reindeer and chasing the Northern Lights, we embraced a slower pace on Sunday with a leisurely brunch and some well-deserved pampering aboard a floating spa. Tough life, right? 😉

    From Fishing Vessel to Whaling Boat, to Luxury Spa—Vulkana has had quite the transformation. Launched in 1957 at Lista and originally named Viga, she began her life as a hardworking fishing boat, navigating the North Sea and Norwegian coast.

    Where 60 tons of cod were once stored, there’s now a serene, Japanese-inspired Zen Lounge and a revitalizing Turkish hammam. The former crew’s quarters have been reimagined into a wood-fired sauna and a cozy dining space for brunch.

    We indulged in the wood-fired hot tub on the viewing deck, the traditional sauna, the tranquil Zen Lounge, and the rejuvenating hammam. And for the bravest among us, Ron and David took the ultimate plunge—leaping off the side of the boat into the frigid Arctic waters. Now that’s a cold plunge! 🥶    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Stunning Mountain View's surrounded us on our way to camp
    We were outfitted with all the essential gearReady to ride!🧡Notice the cozy reindeer fur lined passenger seat on the sledDog sled 101And we're off!Such a beautiful landscape to enjoyRon & Shannon were in front of usRon posing while stopped for driver changeOur team of awesome dogs 🐾Aimee's turn to drive 😁These dogs are READY to goAnd we're off!

    Dog Sledding Adventure, Part 1

    February 10 in Norway ⋅ ☁️ 28 °F

    An hour and a half outside of Tromsø, we arrived in the remote wilderness of Tamokdalen, home to a secluded Arctic camp nestled among towering mountains and deep valleys. The dramatic landscape set the perfect stage for an authentic northern Norwegian adventure.

    In preparation for the dog sledding, we were first outfitted with all the essential gear including thermal suits, boots, gloves and warm hats, ensuring comfort and warmth for the adventure ahead.

    After a brief introduction on handling the dogs and sleds, we met our enthusiastic husky teams—tails wagging, eager to hit the trail and take us on an unforgettable dog-sledding journey.

    David took the reins as the musher (driver) while I settled into the sled, soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Midway through, we switched roles, and I had my turn guiding the sled, experiencing firsthand the thrill of steering through the snowy terrain.

    The huskies love to run, but teamwork is key—you have to help guide them, slow them down when needed, and lean into turns to navigate the winding trails. It was an exhilarating experience that left us grinning from ear to ear, our cheeks rosy from the crisp Arctic air.

    Now, if you’re wondering why some of the dogs don’t look like typical huskies, 🤔 there’s a good reason for that explained in part 2 of our sledding adventure. 🐕    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    Our awesome lead dogs, Happy & Munta
    Aimee and Remington, the work horse of our teamOur lead pupsOur lead pupsOur stoic & beautiful middle team dog, BreckarRemingtonAll the dogs resting, drinking water & getting lots of love after sleddingRon & Shannon's lead dogsRon & Shannon's lead dogsRon and Shannon's beautiful middle team dogRon and Shannon's work horse dogThe lávvus (a traditional Sámi tent)A warm drink, fish soup and traditional polar breadA great way to cap off a wonderful vacation with our amazing friends 🥰A view from David & Aimee's sled. The sound you hear at the end is the break being appliedThe ride was little hair raising at times 😆

    Dog Sledding Adventure, Part 2

    February 10 in Norway ⋅ ☁️ 28 °F

    After our ride, we spent time bonding with our huskies, rewarding them with well-deserved cuddles before gathering around an open fire inside a lávvus (a traditional Sámi tent) to warm up with a hearty meal and a hot drink.

    Now, if you’re wondering why some of the dogs don’t look like typical huskies, 🤔 there’s a good reason for that. The dogs at this camp are Alaskan Huskies.

    Unlike Polar Huskies, which are purebred Arctic dogs built for endurance and heavy loads over long distances, Alaskan Huskies are a mixed breed designed for speed and agility. They’re typically a cross between Arctic breeds like Polar Huskies and working dogs such as hunting and farm breeds, making them ideal for sled racing and short-distance sprints.

    Beyond the adventure, what stood out most was the incredible care and respect the guides had for their dogs. It was clear that these huskies weren’t just working animals—they were family. ❄️🐾🩵    Read more

  • Norwegian Adventure 2025
    The nearly full moon lit up the Sky as we approached Oslo, Norway
    Good morning OsloFree carts to use in the Copenhagen airport🎉 Finally landed in Detroit after an unexpected overnight in NY

    Farewell Norway

    Feb 11–12 in Norway ⋅ ☀️ 25 °F

    “Fantastic” hardly does justice to our incredible Norwegian adventure!

    Over the years, we’ve been so blessed to explore amazing destinations and create lifelong memories with the Jones family. From wandering the emerald landscapes of Ireland to navigating Lake Powell on a houseboat with our kids, from that unforgettable cliff house in the Red River Gorge to countless ski trips and our dreamy catamaran voyage through the British Virgin Islands—every adventure has been filled with laughter, joy, and unforgettable moments.

    We absolutely love their infectious passion for travel and adventure, and we’re beyond grateful for the friendship our families share. Cheers to many more incredible journeys ahead!

    Today we began our long journey back home.

    Tromsø ➡️ Oslo, Norway (2hrs, 10min ✈️)

    Oslo ➡️ Copenhagen, Denmark (1hr, 15min✈️)

    Copenhagen ➡️ JFK, New York (8hrs ✈️)

    Unexpected overnight in NY due to a cracked windshield on the plane after de-icing. 😱

    JFK, New York ➡️ Detroit (2hrs, 18min ✈️)

    Detroit ➡️ Dorr (2 1/2hrs 🚗)

    After such loooong days of travel with long layovers, a cancelled flight and 6 hour time change 😴, there’s no place like home. 🇺🇸    Read more

    Trip end
    February 12, 2025
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