Embarking on a 15-day RV road trip from Rovaniemi to Tromsø feels like stepping into a winter wonderland, with each day filled with breathtaking landscapes, captivating wildlife, and cultural wonders. Starting from Rovaniemi, our motorhome journey begins at the Arctic Circle Hiking Area, a place where endless trails weave through snowy forests and frozen rivers. With our RV as our cozy home on wheels, we enjoy the freedom to explore the region at our own pace, blending hikes with visits to local attractions.
No trip to Rovaniemi is complete without stopping by Santa Claus Village. This family-friendly stop brings joy to everyone, young and old alike. Kids will love meeting Santa and sending postcards from the Arctic Circle’s post office, while adults can enjoy the charming atmosphere and admire the surrounding snowy landscapes.
Before crossing into Norway, we indulge in the thrill of Lapland Husky Safaris, gliding through the snowy trails with the excitement of energetic huskies leading the way. This experience is unforgettable, providing a true taste of Lapland’s wilderness. As we continue our journey northward, we make a quick stop at the Visitor Center Laponia to learn about the UNESCO World Heritage landscapes and Sami culture in this region.
Entering Norway, the landscape begins to change, with towering fjords and winding coastal roads guiding our way. Our route planner takes us to Narvik geyser, a unique spot where we witness nature’s hidden wonders bubbling up from the earth. Each stop has a charm of its own, and Narvik’s geyser is a true spectacle for the whole family.
Bodø is a picturesque coastal town where we take a ferry to the Lofoten Islands, adding an extra layer of adventure to our road trip planning. In Moskenes and the surrounding islands, we immerse ourselves in Norway’s fishing culture at the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum Å, where tales of old fishing traditions and maritime life are shared in charming settings.
Our motorhome takes us along coastal and scenic roads to Andøya Space, where aspiring astronauts and curious minds can explore the wonders of space in this northern observatory. Nearby, Andøy Friluftssenter offers family-friendly activities with a focus on outdoor adventures and Nordic wildlife encounters.
Continuing further north, Polar Park provides a chance to see Arctic animals up close, from wolves to lynxes, making it a memorable stop for animal lovers. This wildlife sanctuary is a highlight of our route planner, and the kids especially enjoy learning about the native species of this beautiful, wild region.
We venture into the cultural heart of Norway with stops at Bardu Bygdetun, an open-air museum where traditional Norwegian heritage comes to life. Walking through old farmhouses and buildings, we get a glimpse into the daily lives of Norwegians from centuries past.
As we near Tromsø, our final destination, we visit the Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden, where arctic flora flourishes despite the harsh climate. It’s a peaceful and educational way to end our journey, reminding us of the resilience and beauty of life in the far north.
This one-way road trip from Rovaniemi to Tromsø is a well-rounded experience that showcases Finland’s mystical Arctic Circle and Norway’s dramatic coastal landscapes. With our campervan providing both freedom and comfort, we relish the ease of motorhome travel, allowing us to plan each day according to our mood and interests. This is a route that brings families closer to nature, introduces them to the warmth of local cultures, and offers the thrill of discovering the Arctic’s hidden gems.
