Ever since its discovery by British sailors seeking the northeast passage to China in 1553, Norway’s North Cape (Nordkapp) has been a significant landmark for maritime travelers and tourists.

The flat clifftop that’s known as Europe’s northernmost point (even though it technically isn’t) has drawn tourists for hundreds of years. Although the majority choose to visit in the summer to enjoy the experience of standing on the cliff under the midnight sun, it’s possible to visit year round, weather permitting.

Winter Drive To North Cape

The journey across Magerøya island from Honningsvåg—the closest town—to the plateau is a memorable one. In the summer, the untamed wilderness can feel desolate and depressing, but in the winter the island transforms into a winter wonderland.

The road twists and turns, climbs and falls around the rocky island, revealing wonderful coastal views, small waterfront cabins, and even a beach that the few thousand locals have nicknamed ‘Copacabana’, all of which is blanketed in a thick layer of snow.

You’ll certainly meet a snowplow or two along the road. All being well, the drive takes approximately 35 minutes.

Winter Experience At North Cape

At the plateau itself, most people will head straight around the side of the visitor center to see the famous globe sculpture. Even in the winter, expect a queue for photographs. If you’re on an organised excursion, it’s a good idea to visit the visitor center first, and take your photographs outside later.

The size of the visitor center surprises many travelers, as much of it is located underground. Over four floors, visitors can enjoy a panoramic film of the North Cape in all four seasons, a variety of exhibitions, a small chapel, a cafe, and a gift shop that must surely be one of Norway’s biggest.

Allow time to fully explore the plateau, as there is a lot more to see besides the globe sculpture.

To the right of the visitor center as you arrive, the eye-catching monument ‘Children of the World’ features seven bronze discs based on clay reliefs made by seven children from different countries, symbolizing friendship, hope, joy, and working together.

Other notable monuments include a milestone, and a granite column commemorating the visit of King Oscar II in 1873,

Travel To North Cape From Honningsvåg

If you are taking the Norwegian coastal route or a cruise ship visiting Honningsvåg, there will be at least one excursion offered to the North Cape. Typically this consists of a guided bus trip, free time of between 60 and 90 minutes at the plateau and visitor center, and the return transport.

For example, Havila Voyages offers this North Cape excursion for around $159. Although there are cheaper tours available on land, joining an official excursion in the winter is strongly advised.

On a coastal route or cruise line excursion, you’re guaranteed not to miss the ship, and the tour will be adapted to any delays in the ship’s timetable.

Other cruise line excursions sometimes offered include the opportunity to travel to the North Cape by snowmobile. Independent options from Honningsvåg include private tour operators such as North Cape Tours or booking a private tour with a local taxi company.

Driving Yourself To North Cape

Although the idea of driving across the snow-covered island to reach the cape is a compelling one, great consideration should be taken before deciding to proceed. Even on a pleasant day, the weather can change in just minutes.

Because Magerøya island has no trees, snowdrifts can quickly turn the clearest day into a whiteout. Snowplows do work continuously along the road in the winter, but there will always be an element of risk when self-driving.

If there is a lot of snow and/or severe weather, then convoy driving will be implemented. This only takes place at set times of day, so if you’re on a tight schedule you’re likely to be seriously delayed.

If conditions deteriorate too much, then the road from Honningsvåg to the North Cape may be closed completely.

Categorized in:

Travel