Ersfjordbotn

Ersfjordbotn is a village located at the bottom of the pristine Ersfjord, just 20 km (12.5 miles) west from the city of Tromsø on the neighboring island of Kvaløya. It is a legendary spot for catching the mythical Nordlys (Northern Lights) thanks to its clean, unpolluted air, the dark winter skies of December through February and the surrounding rugged, snow-capped peaks, which shimmer with reflected colors streaming from the lights. The village is also a winter center for skiing, snow-shoeing and dog-sledding, plus a summer destination for rock climbing and hiking in the mountains as well as kayaking, sailing and canoeing on the tranquil waters of the fjord.
Sitting on a narrow strip of land between Ersfjord and neighboring Kaldfjord to the north, Ersfjordbotn is a tiny, largely wooden-built settlement with scattering of holiday homes, although many people living there now work in Tromsø and are lucky enough to enjoy one of the most spectacular commutes in the world, past wild mountain scenery and sparkling seas, while reindeer and lemmings can often be spotted on the hills. Although the northern slopes of Ersfjord are steep and virtually inaccessible, with cliffs plummeting nearly 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) into the sea, the south side is criss-crossed with easy hiking and cycling tracks as well as climbing and bouldering routes for expert mountaineers. 

Practical Info

Ersfjordbotn is easily accessible from Tromsø via the Sandnessund Bridge connecting the city to Kvaløya. Bus No. 425 makes the journey in an hour, while the car journey takes 30 minutes.