Rotsund, Nord-Troms – Exploring Norway
Rotsund is a small village in the far north of Norway. It lies in Nordreisa Municipality in Troms County, far into the Arctic. The village can be found at the shores of the Rotsundet Strait. It offers a view of the island of Uløya on the other side. A ferry connection connects Rotsund to the villages of Hamnnes and Uløybukta across the strait. The village lies mostly along European Route E6. The main road coming up from southern Norway towards the Arctic cities of Tromsø, Alta, and Kirkenes.
Rotsund is also known by its Northern Sámi name Guohcanuorri and its Kven name Nuora. This part of Norway has a long history of co-existent between the three people – Norwegians, Sámi, and Kven.
Things to Do and See
This is a rural part of Troms County with plenty of scenic views to search for. A walk along the coast is one option, but you will mostly walk along the main road. There are also other hiking options towards the mountains just to the south. One alternative is hiking up Steinfjellet. The hike is considered to be demanding as you hike the 4.7 kilometers to reach an altitude of 1024 meters. Another option to enjoy the view from the strait is to take the ferry across to Uløya.
How to Get to Rotsund
- Flights:The closest major airport can be found in Tromsø. The airport has both domestic and international flights connecting the region with the world. There is also Alta Airport to the east, which also has a few international flights. The closest airport is, however, Sorkjosen Airport with regional routes.
- Car: Rotsund lies along European Route E6, between Tromsø and Alta.
The driving distance from 5 major Norwegian cities, according to Google Maps:
- Oslo – 1708 kilometers (21 h)
- Bergen – 2068 kilometers (27 h)
- Trondheim – 1184 kilometers (16 h 50 min)
- Narvik – 289 kilometers (4 h)
- Kirkenes – 637 kilometers (8 h 30 min)
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