While individuals do sleep during the time of the midnight sun, it’s also a perfect time for visitors to Finland, Norway, Sweden and Denmark to take advantage of the unique natural phenomenon through various activities. Yes, it is possible to have fun and explore regions when most people would normally be deep asleep.
What is the Midnight Sun?
The term “Midnight Sun” refers to the sun shining at midnight in areas near and north of the Arctic Circle (it does the same south of the Antarctic Circle, as well). It all has to do with the tilt of the Earth’s axis. If the skies are clear, the sun is visible all 24 hours of the day. Basically, this means that in the summer months, the sun never sets!
When to See the Midnight Sun
The Midnight Sun is visible in Finland, from as early as May 16 to July 27. In Norway’s northernmost points, such as Svalbard and North Cape, it blazes from as early as May 14 to as late as Aug. 23. Sweden’s northern Lapland is lit up round the clock from about June 15 to Sept. 15. June to August is the prime time in Denmark.
Midnight Sun Activities in Finland
One of Finland’s northernmost localities is Utsjoki. The area is home to lakes and rivers, making it a fisherman’s dream. Visitors may want to cast a line and see what they catch in the wee hours of the morning. For something a more on dry land, there’s Muotkatakka, the road at the highest elevation in the country at 569 metres. Located south of the village of Kilpisjärvi, scenic spots are along its way.
Midnight Sun Activities in Norway
One of the most noted places in which to enjoy the Midnight Sun in Norway is the North Cape. The cliff rises 308 metres up from the Atlantic Ocean and it’s a good spot to bird watch. The coastline along the way is also worth exploring, as travellers will find islands and charming fishing villages, and they also have the option of going on a midnight sun cruise, do some whale watching or deep-sea fishing.
Midnight Sun Activities in Sweden
Golfers may be delighted to discover they hit the links under the Midnight Sun Björkliden’s golf course, situated about 200 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. Athletic types can consider going on a hike for either half a night or a full night into the mountains of Abisko National Park in Sweden’s northern Lapland.
Midnight Sun Activities in Denmark
Midnight Sun cruises depart Cophenhagen in Demark to head further north, where the days are longest. North Jutland is the place to be to take the most advantage of extended daylight hours, offering visitors plenty of time to explore the region’s lush scenery, sandy beaches and dune landscapes. Limfjord, to the south of the area, is home to coves, cliffs, forests and sounds dotted with islands of various sizes.
The top ways in which to best experience the Midnight Sun in Finland, Norway, Sweden and Denmark is through nature-based activities, such as hiking, fishing and exploring the countries’ coastlines. Golfing and embarking on cruises are also possible on the days the sun never sets. For maximum Midnight Sun effect, travellers should head to regions north of the Arctic Circle.
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