This phenomena happens north of the Arctic circle at a given period during spring/summer in the north of Norway. Like a prolonged sunset and sunrise all at once, this natural phenomenon colours the sky and earth like it’s on fire! It’s like nothing you´ve ever seen before, and what a dream to be able to get married underneath this magic. Welcome to the land of the midnight sun!
1; HIKE
Like the Northern Lights, the Midnight Sun truly is something unique and special. It is mesmerising and leaves you wanting more. Too bad we have to sleep once in a while!
I have done Midnight Sun hikes for years, and every single one is special. Most of all because every couple brings something new to the table, but also because every day is different. Different location, elevation and also temperature.
We met up at around 9 in the evening, all in hiking gear, ready for a hike to finish the day in style. I had hiked the mountain the day before to make sure the trails was safe, the view was stunning and the temperature was ok. Found the place to be amazing, and we decided to go for it. After about 1 hour of hiking we found ourself in a thick fog. A bit disappointed, we kept on going thinking the fog might lift before we reached the summit. That didn’t happen, but let me tell you what did. 15 minutes before reaching the summit the fog cleared and the sun hit our face. We were actually ABOVE the clouds. The views from the day before were stunning, believe me. But this was out of this world.
I often say the day never goes according to plan, and this was definitely one of those days. Wouldn’t have traded it for the world. Could have stayed up there forever!
2; LOCATION
Do you have to be on top of a mountain to experience the midnight sun? No, but your photographer (preferably) or you, need to do your homework on locations. Where does the sun dip into the ocean? Will there be mountains in the way of your dream spot? The sun can reach you all the way down to sea level. If in doubt, visit the place in advance to see if it hits when you plan to be there.
3; PLANNING
4; WHEN TO SEE THE MIDNIGHT SUN
The Arctic Circle: 12 June–1 July
Bodø: 4 June–8 July
The Lofoten Islands: 28 May–14 July
Harstad: 25 May–18 July
Vesterålen (Andenes): 22 May–21 July
Tromsø: 20 May–22 July
Vardø: 17 May–26 July
Hammerfest: 16 May–27 July
The North Cape: 14 May–29 July
Svalbard: 20 April–22 August
5; PACKING FOR YOUR ADVENTURE
Given that the midnight sun period stretches from April to August depending on where you go, make sure you pack the right things to keep you warm and dry. Not only is there quite a temperature difference between these months, but the difference in temperature when it comes to elevation is also quite significant. Being comfortable at sea level might drop to below freezing point on a mountain top. A few things I would always bring on an adventure in the north of Norway;
- Wind and waterproof clothes
- Clothes to layer up. Fleece or wool is super
- Sunglasses and sunscreen. 24 hours is a long day in the sun
- Some additional clothes suited to go over your wedding attire to keep you warm. Shall, knitted sweater, faux fur etc
- Well worn hiking shoes. Do not go out an buy new ones for this adventure unless you have enough time to break them in
6; ACTIVITIES
You should always plan for extra days when visiting during the midnight sun. Not only to have backup days for your wedding day, but also to take as much advantage of the phenomena as possible. Here are some activities perfect for days under the midnight sun.
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Whale safari
- Cycling
- Relaxing at the beach
- Fishing
- Surfing
- Diving
- Golf
- Horseback riding
- Attend festivals
Did I tempt you? Let’s get the ball rolling and start planning your adventure elopement under the midnight sun!!!
