*** CAMPSITES IN NORWAY 2014 *** | ||||
SITE NAME |
LOCATION, TEL NO and GPS COORDINATES |
DATE of STAY (2014) |
COST per NIGHT | FEATURES and COMMENTS |
RATING +5 excellent ~ -5 dreadful |
OSLO, SW NORWAY, EASTERN JOTUNHEIMEN MOUNTAINS AND DOVREFJELL | |||||
Bogstad Camping, Oslo |
Ankerveien 117 0766 Oslo Tel: |
2~5 May
|
340 NOK
UNDULY EXPENSIVE |
For a capital city site, this is one of best: super helpful
reception staff, pleasant grassy, wooded setting, reasonable facilities, good
bus service into city, supermarket next door BUT spoilt by exorbitant
price Welcome: ultra-helpful and smilingly hospitable welcome from reception staff - city-plan, bus details and tickets - everything you need for city visit Setting: 9kms from city centre in wooded suburbs; large site doubtless busy in summer; delightfully green setting with flat, grassy pitches Facilities: WC/showers much in need of renovation, overused and under-cared for; showers cost 15NOK for 4 minutes; basic and poorly equipped kitchen/wash-up; #32 bus for city centre passes campsite every 15 minutes, but tickets in advance 15 NOK seniors per journey from reception; Kiwi supermarket next door Price: an otherwise good site is let down by its extortionate price of 340 NOK/night inc showers @ 15 NOK each; most expensive site of trip |
+3 <map> |
Elverum Camping, Elverum |
Halvdan Gransvei 6, 2407 Elverum Tel: GPS:
|
6~7 May
|
200 NOK (out of season) |
Small and ultra-welcoming family-run site on banks of River
Glomma in outskirts of Elverum Welcome: superbly hospitable and helpful welcome from owner; out of season, telephone and he will arrive within 10 minutes Setting: delightful grassy setting on banks of wide, fast-flowing River Glomma 1km south of forestry town of Elverum; lovely riverside pitches and few statics; beavers swim around shallows by river island; river-side walk from campsite past Forestry Museum and across bridges to island with Glomdal skansen-museum; on fine evening magnificent sunset across river Facilities: modern, clean and heated facilities recently upgraded; spacious showers with ++ hot water; modern kitchen/wash-up and common room; site-wide wi-fi with strong signal; supermarkets in Elverum and Spa mini-market 800m away Price: 220 NOK all-inclusive low season price excellent value |
+5
|
**
ONE OF THE TRIP'S BEST CAMPSITES
** |
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Hunderfossen
Camping |
Fossekrovegen 90 2625 Lillehammer
Tel: |
8 May |
280 NOK (inc showers at 30 NOK) UNDULY
EXPENSIVE |
An enormous and soulless site with many statics, on riverside
15km north of Lillehammer Welcome: out of season campsite reception closed; book in at Hunderfossen Hotel 300m up lane - perfunctory welcome Setting: huge site with many statics set on flat riverside terrace close to Hunderfoss Family Park 'adventure centre' (yuk!); quiet in early May but would be heaving bedlam in mid-summer; campsite next to main railway line but with little noise of passing trains; more noise from traffic on busy E6 across river Facilities: heated WC/showers modern and clean, but showers charged extra at extortionate 30 NOK each; partially equipped kitchen/wash-up; wi-fi included in price but only at hotel reception Price: basic out-of-season price 220 NOK but showers at 30 NOK make total nightly charge 280 NOK; unduly expensive and poor value Convenient for free entry Road and Rock Tunnel Museum at Hunderfossen; only open weekends in May |
+2 <Map> |
Sveastranda Camping, Gløvik |
Stokkevegen 147, 2825 Gløvik
Tel: |
9 May
|
250 NOK |
Enormous holiday-camp jam-packed full of
wall-to-wall luxy, monster statics Welcome: pleasantly smiling welcome from owners Setting: set on shore of Lake Mjøsa 8kms south of Lillehammer, but totally overcrowded with statics, creating a desolate environment; even the separate area supposedly reserved for visitors now being encroached on by increasing numbers of holiday-making statics, leaving just a small but secluded area down by lake-shore; tolerable in early May, but in summer the place would be utter bedlam Facilities: modern, clean WC/showers, but extra cost for card-operated techno-showers which did not work; modern kitchen/wash-up; site-wide wi-fi included in price Price: 250 NOK inc 2x10 NOK for showers |
+2 <Map> |
Fagernes Camping |
Tyinvegen 23 2900 Fagernes Tel: +47 61 36 05 10 GPS: 60.981914 9.231305 Campsite web site |
10~11 May |
274 NOK |
Long-established family-operated and hospitable
site on shore of Lake Strondafjord at Fagernes Welcome: ultra-helpful welcome from reception staff; reception closed out-of-season but telephone and she will come over Setting: first impression suggests crowded with statics, but at far end a separate lake-side area terraced into pine-covered hill-side reserved for visitors; web site promotes the importance of visitors and they achieve this without intrusion of statics Facilities: 2 service buildings, 2nd more modern and superbly equipped with luxurious individual shower/washrooms; well-equipped kitchen/wash-up with beautifully furnished common/dining room; inc site-wide wi-fi with full strength signal; washing/drying machine (extra cost); 500m walk into Fagernes centre around lake-shore with supermarkets and excellent TIC Price: only downside is price - expensive at 250 +2x12 NOK for showers - total 274 NOK, but otherwise excellent site Fagernes set at junction of E16 (Oslo~Bergen road) and Route 51 Valdresflye National Tourist Road over eastern shoulder of Jotunheimen Mountains - closed Oct~April; telephone 175 National Road Conditions helpline for Route 51 during May when road conditions change daily with sub-zero temperatures |
+4 <Map> |
Jotunheimen Feriesenter-Camping, near Randsverk |
Leirflata, 2676 Heidal Tel: +47 61 23 49 50 GPS: 61.729800 9.120640 Campsite web site |
12~14 May |
240 NOK |
Large, beautifully kept site set amid pinewoods
in upper Sjoa valley 30kms north of Gjendesheim in Eastern Jotunheimen Mountains Welcome: hospitable and helpful welcome from Petrita, the delightful Philippino lady owner who has kept the campsite for 27 years Setting: large and beautifully maintained site set among pine woods on banks of fast-flowing Sjoa River whose source is Lake Gjende in Eastern Jotunheimen Mountains; off Fv257 road 2kms from Randsverk on Valdresflye National Tourist Road Facilities: unheated, rather old-fashioned WC/showers; straightforward kitchen/wash-up; inc wi-fi in rustic style common room - watch out for moose trophy on wall Price: 240 NOK low season price inc 2 shower tokens Randswerk Camping at junction of Routes 51/257 is pretentiously expensive, unwelcoming and desolate-looking in early spring snow-melt season |
+4 <Map> |
Frya-Leir Camping, Ringebu, Gudbrandsdal |
2630 Ringebu
Tel: |
15 May
|
200 NOK |
Straightforward campsite just off E6 near Ringebu
in Gudbrandsdal Welcome: friendly and ultra-helpful welcome from young Polish owner from Krakow Setting: former WW2 ammunition depot built by the German occupiers and post-war Norwegian military camp now converted to campsite; close to E6 but not unduly overwhelmed by traffic noise as other nearby campsites alongside E6 are; flat, open camping area surrounded by pine and birch woods with view up to hills; campsite used as temporary accommodation by workers from E6 redevelopment WC/showers and kitchen/wash-up straightforward and institutionalised, revealing their military camp origins; wi-fi but with limited signal and coverage Price: excellent value at all-inclusive 200 NOK |
+3
|
Bjørkhol Camping, near Dombås, Gudbrandsdal |
2660 Dombås Tel: |
16~17 May |
202 NOK
|
This lovely, welcoming jewel of a campsite fully
deserves the description One of Norway's best value and
friendliest campsites given Lonely Planet Welcome: Bjørkhol is certainly one of the most hospitable campsites we have ever stayed at in 45 years of camping, with an effusively friendly and helpful welcome from the owners Anna-Ma and Terje Hoelsbrekken Setting: idyllically green setting in flat bottom of upper Gudbrandsdal valley, 6kms south of Dombås; large, flat and grassy camping areas surrounded by birches and backed by wooded hill-side, with far side of valley enclosed by snow-covered fells; sufficiently distant from E6 for traffic noise not to be intrusive Facilities: straightforward but spotlessly clean WC/showers and small kitchen/wash-up/common room; showers 5 NOK and wash-up hot water 1 NOK; washing machine good value 30 NOK with heated drying room; wi-fi being installed Price: best value site of the trip - 202 NOK inc coins for showers and washing-up hot water With such a memorably happy stay, campsites simply do not come better than this - GO THERE!
**
ONE OF TRIP'S BEST CAMPSITES
** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED * |
+5++ <Map> |
Furuhaigli Turisthyye-Camping, Dovrefjell |
2660
Dombås, Dovrefjell Tel: +47 61 24 00 00 GPS: 62.153600 9.370400 |
18 May | 250 NOK |
Fell-land campsite high above E6 facing across to
Dovrefjell Welcome: unsmiling. ill-gracious and perfunctory non-welcome from owner - what a stark contrast with the warm welcome at Bjøkhol Setting: 700m up dirt track high on fell-side above E6 with magnificent views looking across to Dovrefjell mountains; segregated area crammed full of statics and huts, with small. grubby and sloping camping area for visitors Facilities: unspectacular but functional WC/showers and small kitchen/wash-up but everything needed extra coins inc an outrageous 10 NOK (£1) for washing-up hot water (do as we did and take hot water from WHBs!), all adding to cumulative high price; semi-functioning wi-fi, totally unreliable and unusable Price: cumulative cost of 250 NOK - poor value 6kms from Fokstumya (marshes) bird-watching nature reserve and 10kms from Snøhetta Lookout in Dovrefjell National Park |
+2 <Map> |
TRONDHEIM, NORTH ON E6 AND BODØ |
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Vikhammer Camping, near
Trondheim |
Gamle E6, 7560 Vikhammer Tel: |
19~22 May
|
200 NOK |
'Mixed bag' campsite with some good, some very bad features, but
convenient for visit to lovely city of Trondheim Welcome: friendly and helpful welcome from owner and family; responded promptly to pre-trip email enquiry about bus details, and agreed price reduction after complaints about noise Setting: sordidly unkempt camping areas, overcrowded with grubby static caravans occupied by migrant workers and dubious characters with inconsiderate, rowdy and drunken behaviour; little space or spare power points left for visitors; a fetidly unpleasant environment, overwhelmed with noise from passing trains, planes and revving car engines, building works, and noisy occupants Facilities: modern set of 6 integrated bathrooms kept scrupulously clean by resident caretaker Eva, a delightful Hungarian lady who took pride in her work and with helping guests with information; basic care-worn kitchen/wash-up; facilities abused by long-term residents despite Eva's efforts to maintain cleanliness; site-wide wi-fi; regular half-hourly bus service (#38) to/from Trondheim - pay driver - 25 NOK seniors' (honnør) ticket; supermarkets 1 km at Vikhammer Price: normal price 240 NOK all-in, but in view of unacceptable behaviour and noise from long-term residents, owner agreed price reduction to 200 NOK/night Trondheim wonderful city to visit - Nidaros Cathedral |
+2 <Map> |
Gullberget Camping, Åsen |
E6, 7630 Åsen
Tel: |
23 May |
190 NOK |
Small, straightforward site by E6 at
Åsen Welcome: friendly welcome from rather taciturn owner Setting: both grassy and gravelled pitches and camping areas among the huts; some inevitable traffic noise from E6 but not unduly intrusive; pleasant green environment surrounded by hills Facilities: straightforward but functional WC/showers and kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide wi-fi Price: Very reasonable 190 NOK inc 2x10 NOK tokens for showers Just north of Tirpitz anchorage at Fættenfjord |
+3 <Map> |
Soria Moria Camping, Verdal |
Fætten 94, 7650 Verdal Tel: |
24 May |
230 NOK |
Small campsite in rural setting on outskirts of Verdal on inner
Trondheim Fjord Welcome: reception unmanned out of season, but owner (in Oslo!) will respond to phone call; self-book-in system with envelope to pay Setting: lovely peaceful rural setting with camping area and huts set amid farmland surrounded by pine and birch woodland; birdsong and no noise from E6 1 km away Facilities: clean and well-cared for heated WC/showers; outside covered wash-up but NO kitchen (almost uniquely in Scandinavia); inc site-wide wi-fi Price: rather expensive at all-inclusive 230 NOK Convenient for Stiklestad 6kms away |
+3 <Map> |
Nyheim Camping, Namsskogen
|
Håpnes 7890 Namsskogen Tel: +47 99 51 65 58 GPS: 64.939252 13.172092 Campsite web site |
25~26 May
|
200 NOK |
Small campsite in delightful riverside setting alongside E6 at Namsskogen Welcome: friendly and quietly hospitable welcome from lady-owner who has kept the campsite for 20 years Setting: set on broad terrace on banks of wide, gently-flowing River Namson just north of Namsskogen village, and surrounded by pine-wooded hills and distant snow-covered mountains; some traffic noise from adjacent E6 and trains on far side of river; delightful riverside setting with much wild flora along river bank Facilities: small facilities hut recently upgraded with spotlessly clean WC/showers and well-equipped kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide wi-fi with strong signal; washing/drying machine (extra cost); mini-market in Namsskogen village Price: normally 230 NOK, but owner offered early season discounted price of all-inclusive 200 NOK - excellent value and a lovely stay |
+4
|
Korgen Camping, Korgen |
Korgauren 5, 8646 Korgen Tel: |
27 May
|
220 NOK |
Small and welcoming site in delightful setting on
grassy banks of fast-flowing River Røssåga just outside Korgen village Welcome: reception closed out-of-season, but lady-owner lives on site and offers hospitable welcome; she returned telephone call assuring us that site was open Setting: flat, grassy pitches on banks of River Røssåga which swirls and gurgles past, overshadowed by pine-covered hills opposite with snow-covered peaks peeping out above trees; over 1 km from E6 so no traffic noise, just the sound of bird-song; Golden Eye and Merganser ducks swimming on river with Common Sandpipers flying around and pecking in shallows - a glorious spot to camp Facilities: clean and modern WC/showers, well-equipped kitchen/wash-up and comfortable common room; inc wi-fi but range limited to reception area; washing/drying machine (extra cost); mini-market in Korgen village Price: 220 NOK including 2x10 NOK coins for showers |
+4 <Map> |
Elvmøthei Fjellgård Camping
|
Andfjellveien 20, 8630 Storforshei Tel: |
28 May | 220 NOK |
A straightforward mountain farmstead campsite
15kms south of Saltfjell Arctic Circle, in magnificent setting amid pines and
surrounded by snow-covered peaks Welcome: farm kept by 2 generations of family, grandparents and sons; reception not manned early in season, but pay at farmhouse or telephone Setting: an unprecedentedly thrilling setting amid pine woods, close to cascading mountain river and surrounded by snow-covered peaks; farmstead just off E6 just before start of climb up onto Saltfjell and crossing of Arctic Circle; no traffic noise, air filled with roar of the river and bird song Facilities: straightforwardly basic but clean WC/showers and basic wash-up with hot water Price: 220 NOK inc 2x 10 NOK coins for showers A memorable stay |
+4 <Map> |
Bodøsjøen Camping, Bodø |
Båtstøveien 1, 8070 Bodø Tel: |
29~30 May
|
(260 NOK) UNDULY
EXPENSIVE |
Basic site in fjord-side setting on outskirts of
Bodø Welcome: there was none! reception closed but someone did occasionally appear Setting: magnificent fjord-side setting with glorious views of distant snow-covered peaks and off-shore islands; but limited power supplies and camping area filled with holiday-making camping-car brigade making rowdy and inconsiderate noise; difficult therefore to find quiet pitch to enjoy the glorious setting in peace Facilities: basic but clean WC/showers, no coins needed; reasonable kitchen/wash-up; inc wi-fi if you can find anyone at reception for password; washing/drying machine (extra cost); #2 bus half-hourly service into Bodø; Rema 1000 supermarket 15 min walk; Bodø Aircraft Museum 20 min walk Price: website would suggest 260 NOK, unduly expensive for such a basic and noisy site; but we never found anyone at reception to pay! |
+3 <Map> |
Strømhaug Camping, Straumen |
Strømhaugveien 2, 8226 Straumen Tel: |
31 May and 25 July
|
225 NOK (low season discount) 270 NOK (full season cost) |
Well-located small site with excellent
facilities, 10 kms north of Fauske Welcome: hospitable welcome from rather taciturn owner Setting: lovely setting close to attractive village of Straumen on banks of mountain river tumbling over rocks, and surrounded by high, craggy mountains; flat turfed camping area; convenient staging camp for E6 but sufficiently distant from highway to avoid traffic noise Facilities: newly upgraded facilities, spotlessly clean WC/showers, well-equipped kitchen/wash-up with microwave and efficient twin electric hobs; inc site-wide wi-fi; washing/drying machine (extra cost); mini-market in nearby Straumen village Price: 225 NOK inc 2x 10 NOK for showers low season discount BUT when we returned in July full season cost would have been 270 NOK, negotiated down to 250 NOK |
+3 <Map> |
Ness Camping, Skutvik
|
8290 Skutvik
Tel: GPS:
|
1~2 June
|
200 NOK Low season discount |
An ultra-welcoming jewel of a small campsite, in
one of most memorable locations ever experienced Welcome: delightfully hospitable and helpful welcome from lady-owner; out-of-season reception closed but phone number given and she will attend from nearby home Setting: campsite locations really do not come better than this! choice of shore-side gravelled camping area or grassy area alongside pond, both looking out across bay and surrounded by jagged, snow-covered peaks - a constant Wow factor! Not enough superlatives! heavenly peaceful setting with just the sound of bird song - Oystercatchers 'peeping' loudly, Ringed Plovers pecking on shore-line mud, and most spectacularly, Terns soaring around bay, hovering and diving for fish, and Curlew with crescendo-call; the birdlife, spectacular mountain views across bay, and salty tang of the sea make this one of most memorable campsites ever. Facilities: straightforward but clean WC/showers, basic electric rings for cooking and wash-up with hot water, inc wi-fi but range limited to reception; free washing machine Price: normally 235 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers, but low season reduction offered by owner at all-inclusive 200 NOK
**
ONE OF
TRIP'S BEST CAMPSITE
** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5++
|
LOFOTEN ISLANDS |
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Lyngvær Bobil Camping, Austvågøya |
E10, 8313 Lyngvær
Tel: |
3 June | 195 NOK |
Despite glorious mountain setting overlooking Gimsøystraumen,
this is a miserable campsite, with 2nd rate facilities, and polluted by noise from camping-cars (bobil) packed
in rows full of rowdy, inconsiderate folk, and overwhelming traffic noise
from E10 Welcome: reasonable welcome from reception staff Setting: spectacular setting with towering Lyngværfjell above, overlooking Gimsøystraumen and backed by mountains of Gimsøya and Vestvågøya; but camping area poorly terraced on steeply sloping hillside, and severely polluted by noise from massed ranks of camping-cars and marginally less objectionable traffic noise from E10 immediately above; flatter upper terrace but none of electric outlets there were functioning Facilities: superficially clean, but no hot water in wash-up, minimally equipped kitchen, and showers luke-warm despite 10 NOK coins; complaints resulted in refund of shower charges; alleged wi-fi totally dysfunctional with no internet access; nearest supermarket 12 kms in Svolvær Price: 195 inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers
** A MISERABLE CAMPSITE ** ** NOT RECOMMENDED ** |
-1
|
Lofoten Turistsenter,
Vestvågøya |
Alstad 1, 8360 Bøstad Tel: |
4 June
|
195 NOK |
Another E10-side, unremarkable campsite located at eastern end of
Vestvågøya Welcome: totally indifferent and unsmiling, non-communicative non-welcome from reception staff; getting information was like drawing teeth! Setting: set behind road-house alongside E10, with inevitable traffic noise; camping area unkempt and uncared-for with long, tussocky and potentially soft grass - beware getting bogged in when weather wet; a few gravelly pitches but sloping Facilities: WC/showers clean but uncared-for; not one hook in showers; had to ask for bulb to be replaced in otherwise dark showers; pokey, small and minimally equipped kitchen/wash-up; inc wi-fi but limited to reception area Price: 195 NOK inc 2 x 10 NOK coins for showers No wonder the place was deserted! |
+1 <Map> |
Wild camp at Unstad,
Vestvågøya |
GPS: 68.272040 13.583200 |
5 June |
100 NOK |
Wonderfully peaceful spot above beach at remote
hamlet of Unstad overlooking Unstadvika Bay on
Vestvågøya Setting: Parking area at end of lane by Unstad community hall; faces out to sea with clear horizon but unfortunately late evening sun passes behind northern headland enclosing bay and obscuring Midnight Sun from view at camping spot Price: 100 NOK contribution in trust-box by gate Avoid similar spots at Eggum and Utaklei which are overcrowded with camping-cars |
<Map> |
Fredvang
Camping, Moskenesøya
|
8387 Fredvang Moskenesøya
Tel: |
6~7 June
|
280 NOK UNDULY
EXPENSIVE |
Family-run, large but straightforward shore-side
site on isolated north coast of
Moskenesøya, but with all the
cumulative charges adding up to making it one of most expensive sites of the
trip, giving the place a mean and penny-pinching air Welcome: an initial friendly welcome from owner's wife turned to offensive rudeness when we later commented on cumulative cost of all the extras which most campsites include in basic price Setting: vast, featureless camping area surrounded by dunes alongside white-sand beach on northern shore of Moskenesøya with clear view of Midnight Sun over sea and islets Facilities: basic facilities with WC/showers in need of upgrading; but campsite's major downside is the additional costs for all the basic features which other campsite's include in price, the most offensive was coins needed for basic kitchenette's electric rings and charge for wi-fi Price: basic charge 200 NOK - plus 30 NOK for power, 2x10 NOK for showers, 20 NOK for wi-fi, 10 NOK kitchen, accumulating to a whopping 280 NOK; for a straightforward site this was unacceptable, compounded by the wife's offensive manner when challenged on this |
+1 <Map> |
Moskenesstraumen Camping, Å-in-Lofoten, Moskenesøya
|
Å-in-Lofoten, 8392 Sørvågen Tel: |
8~10 June
|
220 NOK |
Small and charactersome, straightforward and
welcoming site nestled into rocky headland above Å fishing
village at far SW tip of Island (no tents
now);
a glorious spot to camp Welcome: friendly and laid-back welcome from owner's wife; reception not manned but telephone and she will come out Setting: gravelled main camping area on rocky headland, grassy pitch higher up on cliff-top, and small terrace nestled among rocks overlooking sea Facilities: clean, modern but limited WC/showers, basic kitchen/wash-up with hot water; inc site-wide wi-fi but tenuous signal; old-fashioned village shop and bakery in Å fishing hamlet, mini-market 3kms in Sørvågen Price: 220 NOK inc 2x10 NOK for showers Be sure to visit Lofoten Stockfish Museum whose enthusiastic, polyglot owner will teach you all you want to know about this major Lofoten export industry; also walk over headland beyond campsite to views along Moskenesøya's inaccessible mountainous southern limits towards Moskenesstraumen mælstroms |
+4
|
Skagen Camping, Flakstad |
Flakstad, 8380 Ramberg, Flakstadøya
Tel: |
11 June |
215 NOK |
A disappointingly inadequate
site, despite the impressive setting overshadowed by
towering mountains on north coast of
Flakstadøya Welcome: earlier we had received an encouraging welcome to our initial enquiry, but reception unmanned when we arrived Setting: camping area set among broad, open expanse of dunes by white-sand beach on north coast of Flakstadøya close to Flakstad church, overshadowed by towering cliffs of island's northern mountains; but minimal flat ground among hummocky dunes; if sun ever shines, clear horizon across sea for Midnight Sun Facilities: absolutely minimal - 2 unisex WC/showers with little privacy; for large campsite, this inevitably meant queues; empty toilet-roll holders not replenished and non-working hand-driers; wash-up sink, electric rings, table and chairs, industrial washing /drying machines all shoe-horned into tiny cupboard constituted the minimalist kitchenette; no wi-fi Price: 215 NOK inc 2x10 NOK for miserly 3 min showers |
+2
|
Brustranda
Camping, Vestvågøya
|
Valbergsveien 841, 8370 Leknes,
Vestvågøya
Tel: |
12 June
|
220 NOK |
Well-cared for, welcoming, family-run and good-value site
beautifully located under towering mountains on southern coast of
Vestvågøya; open all year round Welcome: smilingly helpful and hospitable welcome from lady-owner Setting: a long-standing and well-cared for site set at head of fjord on southern coast of Vestvågøya and sheltered on landward side by circle of towering mountains; delightfully laid-out camping area clustered around a small inlet from fjord; 2nd smaller flat, grassy and secluded camping area sheltered behind rocky outcrop overlooking little harbour on seaward side Facilities: first class clean and modern WC/showers (generous 6 mins hot water), large, fully equipped kitchen/wash-up with comfortable common room; washing/drying machine (extra cost); inc site-wide wi-fi Price: excellent value at 220 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers
**
AN ALTOGETHER EXCELLENT CAMPSITE ** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5
|
Hov Camping,
Gimsøya
|
Hov 8314, Gimsøyasand
Tel: |
13~15 June |
210 NOK |
Campsite owned and maintained by nearby Hov Golf Club;
beautifully kept site looking out over white-sand
beach on north coast of Gimsøya with
perfect view of clear horizon for Midnight Sun (if it shines and weather clear) Welcome: pleasantly hospitable welcome at Hov Golf Club reception 1km along lane from camping area Setting: unsurpassingly beautiful setting on shore-line looking our across Hovsvika bay and white-sand beach with clear line of sight across sea to northern horizon for Midnight Sun, but bleak and exposed if weather is bad; camping area ranged alongside coastal lane opposite bay with beautifully maintained turf, slightly sloping down towards shore; overshadowed behind by 368m high conical peak of Hoven Facilities: heated WC/showers and kitchen/wash-up; wi-fi at golf club reception 1km but none at camping area Price: very reasonable value at 210 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers |
+4 <Map> |
Sildpollnes Sjø-camping, Austvågøya
|
8316 Laupstad,
Austvågøya Tel: |
16~17 June |
220 NOK |
Well-kept, welcoming and wonderfully located site
spread across Sildpollnes peninsula overlooking Austnesfjord and the mountainous
massif and glaciers of Eastern Austvågøya Welcome: friendly and helpful welcome from the couple who have over the years developed this well-maintained site Setting: a number of camping areas all with multiple power supplies, spread across headland of peninsula projecting into Austnesfjord with tiny wooden chapel at tip; magnificent panorama of the coronets of craggy peaks topping Trolltinden's mountain range on Eastern Austvågøya across fjord; settings do not come better than this Facilities: heated, modern WC/showers, small but well-equipped kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide wi-fi but weak signal; washing/drying machine (extra cost) Price: 220 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers
**
AN ALTOGETHER EXCELLENT CAMPSITE ** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5
|
Skippergården Camping, Laukvik, Austvågøya |
Laukvikveien 49, 8315 Laukvik, Austvågøya Tel: |
18 June |
240kr |
A failing campsite with minimal facilities, up for sale and in
state of terminal dereliction, but still charging 240 NOK/night; having said
that, a good Midnight Sun setting on north coast of Austvågøya Welcome: perfunctory welcome from lady-owner Setting: set in isolated farming/fishing village of Laukvik in remote NW corner of Austvågøya; camping areas spread along linear driveway leading down to coast, but totally overgrown, neglected and un-cared for, in state of terminal decline; minimal electric outlets, and 1 very dubious extension cable stretching to far end Facilities: run-down, old-fashioned WC/showers and basic kitchenette/wash-up, all in basement of reception house, 500m from far end of camping area by coast where you would want to camp; supplementary facilities building non-functional - froze up last winter and not repaired, another indication of terminal decline; NO wi-fi (owner admitted she had not bothered to renew because of cost; nearest shop in Laukvik village but that also for sale and likely to close Price: in spite of site's run-down state, owner is still charging an unrealistically expensive rate of 240 NOK inc 2x20 NOK for showers Having said all that, why choose to stay at such a derelict, over-expensive site? Answer - peaceful shore-side setting provides perfect location for watching Midnight Sun across sea on clear night |
+1
|
VESTERÅLEN ISLANDS AND SENJA | |||||
Kinnarps Turistsenter-Camping, Stokmarknes,
Hadseløya |
8455 Stokmarknes Te;: |
19 June |
250 NOK |
Expensive but reasonably well appointed site set
on island of Borøya Welcome: none at all! you are instructed to telephone a number with your details before settling in Setting: located on islet of Borøya mid-channel between Stokmarknes and Langøya linked by impressive bridges; separate gravelled camping areas looking out over Langøy Sound and distant snow-covered mountains of Langøya and Hadseløya Facilities: good facilities - modern, clean WCs and luxurious showers, straightforward kitchen/wash-up Price: expensive but all-inclusive 250 NOK Hurtigrute Museum in Stokmarknes for history of Coastal Express worth a visit tho expensive at 75 NOK (seniors) |
+3 <Map> |
Stø Bobil Camp, Langøya |
8439
Stø, Langøya Tel: |
20~21 June |
215 NOK
|
Small, family-run and unpretentious site perched
on bleakly exposed rocky headland at northern tip of Langøya by Stø
fishing harbour Welcome: friendly and hospitable welcome from family who keep the campsite and café Setting: set on rocky headland exposed directly to Arctic winds and sea, at northern tip of Langøya; circular, gravelled camping area with just the breakwater rocks for shelter from northerly winds, facing out to sea and backed by craggy mountains on landward side; 1.5km around dirt road from Stø fishing harbour; no turfed area for pitching tents Facilities: straightforward WC/showers and basic kitchen/wash-up; wi-fi in café extends to nearer area of camp; power supplies over-stretched and unreliable; homely little café at reception with simple but expensive fish dishes and tasty cinnamon buns Price: all-inclusive 215 NOK Dronningrute (Queen's Path) coastal/mountain circuit starts behind campsite - map and details from Sortland TIC; kittiwake colony nesting on low rocky outcrop by Stø harbour |
+3
|
Oppmyre Camping, Myre, Langøya
|
Oppmyreveien 53, 8430 Myre Tel: |
22 June
|
235 NOK |
Small, long-standing family-run site, peaceful and well-cared for
with excellent facilities, set on shore-side looking down length of Romsetfjord Welcome: friendly and hospitable welcome from owner whose father established the site; reception in owner's on-site house Setting: located 2kms south of Myre in NW Langøya, on south-facing headland by Oppmyre harbour; flat, grassy and gravelled camping areas with magnificent views looking down length of Romsetfjord to distant jagged peaks lining the horizon of Western Langøya; a glorious setting Facilities: first class heated facilities fully modernised in 2012, with 4 integrated private shower rooms and fully-equipped kitchen, the best experienced; beautifully furnished common room with inc limited range wi-fi; washing/drying machines (extra cost) Price: all inclusive 235 NOK
**
AN EXCELLENT CAMPSITE
** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5 <Map> |
Fjord Camp, Bø,
Langøya |
Kråkberget, 8475 Kråkberget Tel: |
23 June
|
230 NOK |
A pretentious and over-promoted campsite, the only one in Langøya's
much indented western province of
Bø Welcome: officious, unwelcoming and unhelpful attitude from reception staff; it's the sort of place where you're expected to apologise for being a paying guest; the place is clearly run for the convenience of staff and customer service standards leave much to be desired Setting: large, featureless and sterile camping area facing NE along Ryggefjord and horizon of jagged peaks, but with view across fjord blocked by all the huts; one of those irritating sites where reception staff insist on assigning you a pitch, and if you don't like it, you have return all the way back to reception and negotiate an alternative Facilities: starkly institutionalised WC/showers but at least heated; kitchen-wash-up with electric cooker; freezers for fish if you're a fisherman; inc wi-fi covering the camping area Price: all-inclusive 230 NOK The reception staff's offensive and unwelcoming
attitude left a bitter taste |
-1
|
Andøy Friluftsenter,
Hinnøya |
Buksnesfjord, 8484 Risøyhamn, Hinnøya
Tel: |
24 June |
230 NOK |
A minimalist campsite charging full-scale prices, kept by English
owner and Hinnøya-born
wife; despite their web site claims about 'back-to-nature' environment (Friluftsenter
= outdoors), it is in fact a very basic, poorly-equipped and unkempt fell-land
site with basic facilities, an afterthought to an ultra expensive restaurant Welcome: perfunctory welcome from reception staff with long-winded, bureaucratic rigmarole for booking-in (unprecedented in Norway); questioning the absence of campers' kitchen despite the full-scale price of 230 NOK simply produced indifferent shrug in response Setting: set high on fell-side looking out over Risøy-Sound to hills of southern Andøya, a glorious outlook; but small and unkempt camping area with minimal power supplies and large area of untidy statics Facilities: tiny, cramped and minimalist facilities hut with 2 x WC/showers and wash-up sink; said to be newly upgraded, but if so, heaven knows what the old one was like! no cooking or laundry facilities; pretentious, very expensive restaurant seems to be core business, with campsite as an after-thought Price: poor value at 230 NOK, given the shortcomings |
+1
|
Midnattsol Camping, Bleik, Andøya
|
Gårdsveien 8, 8481 Bleik, Andøya Tel: |
25~27 June
|
220 NOK |
A welcoming site set alongside glorious
white-sand beach by fishing hamlet of Bleik on NW coast of
Andøya with perfect views
of Midnight Sun Welcome: thoroughly helpful and friendly welcome from very hospitable owner Setting: camping areas spread along magnificent white-sand, turquoise water beach in Bleik Bay, enclosed by spectacular mountains; other close-cropped turf camping areas set higher above beach looking out over bay; perfect orientation for viewing Midnight Sun with clear line of sight across beach and sea to north Facilities: small but modern facilities building but with just 2 WC/showers for large site meaning queues; well-equipped kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide wi-fi; washing/drying machines (extra cost); 500m to lovely village of Bleik with fishing harbour and well-stock shop Price: good value at 220 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers Avoid over-commercialised, excessively expensive Stav Camping 8kms further south - no Midnight Sun views; Andenes Camping straightforward but good alternative
**
AN EXCELLENT CAMPSITE
** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5
|
Fjordbotn Camping, Senja |
Stønnesbotn, 9373 Botshamn, Senja Tel: |
28~29 June | 250 NOK |
Small fjord-shore site in superb Midnight Sun setting looking
north along length of Fjordbotnfjord, but poorly cared for and unduly expensive
for a basic site with no wi-fi Welcome: indifferent non-welcome from owner Setting: magnificent setting on Fjordbotnfjord fjord-shore looking north along length of fjord; perfect views of Midnight Sun which declines behind peak and re-emerges to traverse along line of ridge, finally to emerge again fully into gap on mountain skyline just before 1-00am; waders pecking along fjord shore with oystercatchers and curlews Facilities: straightforward but clean WC/showers but basic and poorly equipped kitchen/wash-up; NO wi-fi Price: all-inclusive 250 NOK, but unduly expensive for a basic site |
+2
|
TROMSØ and NW FJORD COAST TO NORDKAPP |
|||||
Ramfjord Camping, Sørbotn
|
9027 Ramfjordbotn Tel: +47 77 69 21 30 GPS: 69.516550 19.247540 Campsite web site |
30 June ~2 July |
200 NOK |
Small campsite 25kms south of Tromsø
on E8 near to Fagernes (watch out for
speed cameras), with hospitable welcome, good value price and beautiful location looking
straight down length of fjord; this is perfect site for visiting Tromsø Welcome: warmly friendly and helpful, hospitable welcome from fluently English speaking owner Setting: flat camping area in magnificent setting around head of Ramfjord looking straight down fjord into setting sun, a totally stunning location surrounded by high mountains looking out across end of fjord with oyster-catchers and red-shanks pecking around the mudflats Facilities: WC/showers modern and clean, well-equipped kitchen/wash-up with comfortable common-room; washing/drying machine (extra cost); no wi-fi Price: good value all-inclusive 200 NOK Under no circumstances stay at Tromsø Camping, an appalling place with racketeering prices, which should be boycotted by everyone |
+4 <Map> |
Arctic Fjord Camping,
Storeng (formerly ANSI Turist-Service Camping) |
E6 370, 9161 Burfjord, Storeng Tel: |
3 July
|
210 NOK |
Superbly located site looking across
Kvænangsfjord to snow-covered mountainous backdrop
of Kvænangstinden crested skyline; campsite was previously called ANSI Turist-Service
and owned by Simonsen family who had farmed the land for 3 generations; they
have now retired and site now taken over by new owners; renamed
Arctic Fjord Camp but in other respects remains
unchanged Welcome: hospitably welcoming Setting: they simply do not come better than this; lush grassy meadow running down to fjord-shore divided into large, flat, terraced pitches overlooking magnificent panorama of Knævangs-fjorden with snow-covered Knævangstinden mountains gracing distant skyline; wonderful sunsets across the fjord on fine evenings Facilities: heated, modern and clean WC/showers plus wash-up below reception office, but no kitchen; inc site-wide wi-fi Price: excellent value at all-inclusive 210 NOK |
+4 <Map> |
Russenes Camping, Olderfjord |
E69, 9713 Russenes Tel: |
4 July |
205 NOK |
Functional campsite on shore of Olderfjord on E69 route to/from
Nordkapp, part of Olderfjord hotel; tends to be swamped by camping-car convoys
heading for Nordkapp Welcome: friendly welcome from young staff at shop/reception Setting: grassy camping spaces among the predominant statics along shore of Olderfjord looking out across to Porsanger Fjord Facilities: rather old-fashioned and ramshackle but functional, showers coin operated; free washing/drying machine, wi-fi 60 NOK/hour but only at reception; small supermarket at filling station 500m Price: 205 NOK inc 2x10NOK coins for showers |
+3
|
Wild camp on cliff-top at Nordkapp |
Wild camp in parking area at Nordkapp Hallen
GPS: |
5~6 July
|
320 NOK admission price to Nordkapp Hallen carpark |
Wild camp in parking area at Nordkapp Hallen, now totally
overwhelmed by hoards of camping-car and caravan tourists, all making undue noise
and showing complete indifference to unbelievable natural surroundings and
Midnight Sun across Barents Sea; WCs available in Nordkapp Hallen 7-00am to
1-00am See our web site for recommendations on access to Nordkapp Hallen parking area |
+3
|
Kirkeporten
Camping, Skarsvåg |
Storvannsveien 2 9763 Skarsvåg Tel: |
7 July
|
240 NOK |
A small, welcoming but now expensive family-run campsite, beautifully
located at Skarsvåg just beyond turning to Nordkapp which is 12kms distance - the world's northernmost campsite Welcome: helpful and hospitable welcome from family Setting: grassy and gravelly camping areas on shore of Storvannet Lake; follow path from campsite up and over fell-side to Kirkeporten natural rock-arch for distant views of Nordkapp cliff with its distinctive rock horn Facilities: heated WC/showers, inc wi-fi in common room, fresh bread and rolls, excellent small restaurant with home cooking - fish soup, salmon steaks, reindeer stew; washing/drying machine at 60 NOK Price: increased steeply from our previous stay, now 240 NOK/night |
+4 <Map> |
NORTHERN NORWAY - BARENTS SEA ROUND TO KIRKENES and ØVRE PASVIK VALLEY |
|||||
Ifjord Café-Camping |
Riksveg 98 128 9740 Lebesby Tel: |
8 July | 215 NOK |
Very basic and grubby camping place, filthy muddy after rain, and
fly-ridden in dry, warm weather; despite its shortcomings, Ifjord is a
convenient overnight stop on long drive across Route 98 or between
Kjøllefjord and Berlevåg, with a certain basic
charm Welcome: perfunctory greeting from gruff owner at café Setting: 2 small camping areas down by river among huts - higher area tends to become a grubby, sordid quagmire, lower area more pleasant among birch grove but in dry summer weather is fly-ridden; both have limited power supplies Facilities: old-fashioned, semi-functional WC/showers with hot water; basic kitchen/wash-up; washing machine (extra cost); NO wi-fi Price: price increased to 215 NOK since stayed here last in 2012 |
+2
|
Quay-side aire, Kjøllefjord
|
Breakwater quay at Kjøllefjord GPS: |
9 July |
220 NOK |
Former wild-camp spot, now converted to aire standard with power
outlets and WC/showers, and operated by Kjøllefjord commune Welcome: book-in at TIC in the town main street; hospitable welcome there Setting: magnificent location on Kjøllefjord breakwater by the Hurtigruten Quay, looking out westwards across the fjord with evening sun setting across water, and eastwards across fishing harbour and coloured houses of town under towering cliffs Facilities: power-supplies at gravelled camping area; facilities hut nearby with WC/showers, and drinking water/waste-disposal; NO wi-fi Price: rather expensive at 220 NOK/night inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers Hurtigruten coastal liner calls at nearby quay, northbound 5-45pm and southbound 3-30am In sunny weather, this was another of those most memorable camp spots, a Very Special Place
**
ONE OF THE TRIP'S BEST CAMPSITES
** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5
|
Berlevåg Pensonjat and Camping,
Berlevåg |
Havnegata 8, 9980 Berlevåg Tel: |
10~11 July
|
260 NOK |
Warmly hospitable, homely, wonderfully located and well-equipped
site overlooking Berlevåg fishing harbour; a welcoming and thoughtfully run
campsite which sets an enviable example for lesser sites Welcome: friendly, helpful and hospitable welcome from owner Setting: grassy, flat camping area next to pension, overlooking Berlevåg fishing harbour and Hurtigrute quay by the outer harbour mole; 5 minutes walking distance from the bustling, self-sufficient, 'end-of-world' fishing port of Berlevåg; Midnight Sun clearly visible from nearby headland from which you can also watch the arrival/ departure of Hurtigruten coastal liners which coincide at Berlevåg, 10-30pm southbound, 10-45pm northbound Facilities: clean and modern WC/showers, homely and best equipped kitchen/wash-up of the whole trip, everything thought of and provided; grill-hut with camp-fire; inc site-wide wi-fi; washing machine (extra cost); food shops, ATM and filling station in town Price: slightly expensive at 260 NOK, but overall good value - you get the quality and homeliness you pay for
**
ONE OF THE TRIP'S BEST CAMPSITES
** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5++
|
Vestre Jakobselv Camping, near
Vadsø |
Lilledalsveien 6, 9802 Vestre Jakobselv Tel: |
12 July |
200 NOK |
Good, reliable and hospitable campsite, only remaining one open on
north shore of Varanger Fjord Welcome: helpful and hospitable welcome at reception Setting: elongated part-gravel, part grassed camping area with power-sockets along one side; tends to fill with Finnish fishermen here for the salmon fishing on the Jakobselv River Facilities: adequate but functional; small kitchen/wash-up with 2-ring electric cooker and oven; water-filling hose, fish-washing sink; inc site-wide wi-fi; sauna; free washing/drying machines; supermarket and excellent TIC in Vadsø Price: good value at 200 NOK inc SCC discount (cf ultra expensive Kirkenes!) Be sure to drive to isolated former fishing village of Hamningberg and see Kittiwakes nesting on cliff face at Ekkerøy |
+4
|
Maggadalen Camping, Kirkenes |
Maggadalen 4, 9912 Hesseng, Kirkenes Tel: |
13~14 July
|
240 NOK |
A poor, dismal, noisy and overcrowded campsite, which
exploits its
monopoly in Kirkenes area Welcome: offensively rude and unwelcoming manner from reception staff; if there was another campsite nearby, you would turn and drive away at this unsavoury greeting Setting: gravelled camping area is a large, cheerless car park, utterly dismal and overcrowded in July; grassy tent area lower down stinks of sewerage, a thoroughly unsavoury environment with undue road noise from nearby main Route E6 Facilities: old-fashioned, grubby WC/showers and inadequate numbers given overcrowded site resulting in queues; uncleaned kitchen/wash-up; inc wi-fi close to reception but weak/slow signal Price: 240 NOK inc 2x10 NOK for shower coins; unduly expensive given shortcomings |
+1 <Map> |
Øvre Pasvik Café-Camping,
Vaggatem, Øvre Pasvik Valley |
Vaggatem, 9925 Svanvik, Øvre Pasvik Valley Tel: |
15~17 July |
295 NOK inc showers, and wi-fi at extra cost UNDULY EXPENSIVE |
Small, basic but unduly expensive (another monopoly!) café-camping
at Vaggatem by Russian border in remote inner reaches of Øvre Pasvik Valley Welcome: gruffly helpful welcome from lady-owner whose family farm nearby and have kept the campsite since 1996 Setting: small gravelled camping area surrounded by huts, levelled out on a peninsula of land between main Pasvik River and Ellenelva tributary; Vaggatem consists of just 5 farmsteads in the upper Pasvik Valley 90kms south of Kirkenes Facilities: reasonable WC/showers; small wash-up sink but NO kitchen; site-wide wi-fi but charged extra at 25 NOK/day; washing machine (extra charge); nearest shop 40kms north at Svanvik so bring all your own necessary provisions; camp-fire in evenings Price: unduly expensive with all the cumulative extra charges - 250 NOK basic + 2x10 NOK shower coins + 25 NOK/day for wi-fi; owner resisted any discussion on discount for 3 days pleading high cost of running remote campsite Rough and ready frontier feel about Vaggatem - an interesting stay |
+3
|
NORTHERN FINLAND and NORTHERN SWEDEN |
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Jokitörmä Camping-Hostel, Kaamanen, Northern Finland
|
Kaamasentie 2709, 99910 Kaamanen Tel: |
18 July |
€23 |
Very pleasant and welcoming family-run campsite in North Lapland
on banks of Kaamasjoki River Welcome: smilingly warm and hospitable welcome from owner and his wife; same family has run the hostel-camping for 2 generations with current owners for 15 years; wife's father had carved attractive wooden sculptures decorating the site, inc river crocodile carved from dead tree trunk Setting: broad, grassy and flat camping area along river bank with a few trees for shade; midges tolerable early evening; clear unhampered line of sight across river for Midnight Sun if sky clear Facilities: heated WC/showers, but kitchen/wash-up care-worn and poorly equipped; no WI-FI Price: €23 inc SCC discount |
+4 <Map> |
Tenorinne Camping, Karigasniemi, Northern Finland |
Ylätenontie 55, 99950 Karigasniemi GPS 69.400547 25.845981 Campsite web site |
19~20 July
|
€22 |
A beautifully located, well-equipped, good value campsite with
hospitable welcome, kept by the Lehtosalo
family since 1966 and their hard work shows - you could
not ask for more Welcome: friendly and hospitable welcome from family in the café-reception area Setting: beautifully sited on terraces of the steep bank of River Inari/Teno which forms the Finnish/Norwegian border, looking westward into the Midnight Sun and sunset across the river and forested hills of Norway; powered pitches on each of the flat, grassy terraces Facilities: modern clean and heated WC/showers in lower rooms of services building; homely and well-equipped kitchen/wash-ups on upper floor with comfortable common room/dining room and covered balcony with wonderful views westward overlooking river; inc site-wide wi-fi, washing/drying machine (extra cost) Price: excellent value at €21 inc SCC discount
**
FINLAND'S FINEST CAMPSITE
** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5
|
Arctic Motel-Camping,
Kautokeino, Finmark |
Suomaluodda 18 9520 Kautokeino, Finmark Tel: |
21 July
|
270 NOK UNDULY EXPENSIVE |
A welcoming but unduly expensive family-run campsite at southern
outskirts of Sámi township of Kautokeino Welcome: friendly and hospitable welcome from family Setting: close-cropped turf but hummocky camping area with limited power supplies; camping area surrounded by well-used huts Facilities: rather antiquated WC/showers but fully equipped kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide wi-fi but weak signal; evening camp-fire in Sámi Lavvu-tent with chance to hear about Sámi life; Co-op and Rema supermarkets in Kautokeino Price: unduly expensive at 270 NOK inc 2x10 coins for showers Kautokeino is a limited town in summer with Sámi reindeer herders away at coastal grazing, but in winter there are 100,000 reindeer hereabouts; Juhls silver jewellery gallery with free tour |
+3
|
Sandlövs Camping, Karesuando,
Northern Sweden
|
Olausgatan 15, 98018 Karesuando
Tel: |
22 July |
150 SEK |
Very good value, charmingly simple little site at
Karesuando, Sweden's northernmost village, just opposite border bridge to
Finland Welcome: friendly and warmly hospitable welcome from family Setting: delightfully straightforward site set alongside gardens of owning family's wooden house looking across to border bridge and Karesuando church Facilities: straightforward but adequate WC/showers, basic wash-up sink, NO kitchen or wi-fi; mini-market, general stores, filling station, and meat hall (selling reindeer and elk meat) in Karesuando village Price: excellent value at all-inclusive 150 SEK |
+4 <Map> |
NORTH-WESTERN NORWAY |
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Hærsletta Camping, near Narvik |
Trædal E6, 8517 Narvik Tel: |
23 July |
240 NOK |
Small, basic and old-fashioned site with huts, busy with
overnighters on Lofoten/Nordkapp run, 18kms north of Narvik at junction of
E6/E10 Welcome: friendly helpful welcome from family who have kept the site since 1970 Setting: located on hillside overlooking Ofotfjord immediately above junction of busy E6/E10 roads; site therefore totally overwhelmed by traffic noise from dawn to late evening, particularly HGVs; having said that, pleasant, grassy albeit steeply sloping camping area surrounded by trees with magnificent views down Ofotfjord Facilities: given number of huts and very busy site, limited and basic WC/showers in need of upgrading; reasonable kitchen/wash-up; but NO wi-fi and NO washing machine Price: given basic/limited facilities and traffic noise, poor value at 240 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers |
+3
|
Sørkil
Fjord-Camping, Ulsvåg
|
Sørkil, 8276 Ulsvåg Tel: |
24 July |
250 NOK |
Small shore-side campsite, 2kms
north of Ulsvåg, on E6, looking out across bay to the jagged peaks of Hamarøya Welcome: straightforwardly friendly welcome from owner Setting: small grassy camping area beautifully located along shore-side of Presteldfjord looking out over bay to horizon of Hamarøya's peaks and Lofoten snow-capped mountains; small site set alongside E6 but traffic noise tends to be in batches reflecting arrival/departure of Bognes ferry 17kms north Facilities: limited but clean WC/showers; well-equipped kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide wi-fi; washing/drying machine (extra cost) Price: all-inclusive 250 NOK |
+4 <Map> |
KYSTRIKSVEIEN COASTAL ROUTE |
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Elvsgårde Camping, Saltstraumen
|
8056
Saltstraumen Tel: |
26~27 July |
230 NOK |
Small, peaceful and welcoming farm-site on
Straumøya Island on southern side of Saltstraumen channel Welcome: friendly, helpful and hospitable welcome from lady-owner; book yourself in on arrival and reception will open briefly morning and evening Setting: grassy, slightly sloping camping area directly overlooking Saltstraumen channel and 10 mins walk along lane on Straumøya Island to main bridge over channel for the tidal race; footpath from camping area down to shore-side rocky outcrops with magnificent views along channel Facilities: modern WC/showers (no coins!) and reasonably equipped kitchen/wash-up; inc wi-fi in common room but signal too weak to cover whole camping area; well-stocked Co-op shop 700m along at Saltstraumen bridge Price: good value at all-inclusive 230 NOK A superbly located and welcoming site with good value price given its position with ready access to Saltstraumen, and reasonably peaceful even on peak holiday weekend; Saltstraumen tide tables from TICs
**
AN EXCELLENT CAMPSITE
** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5
|
Furøy Camping, Furøy |
Furøy 6, 8178 Halsa Tel: |
28~29 July |
260 NOK |
Busy site, noisy with all the comings and goings, but beautifully located,
looking directly down Holandsfjord to Blokktinden conical peak, close to Forøy~Ågskardet
ferry on Coastal Route 17 Welcome: friendly welcome from lady-owner Setting: superb setting, close to ferry port and overlooking Holandsfjord and Blokktinden peak; camping area spread up grassy hill slope with plenty of tent space and gravelled pitches alongside for campers Facilities: grubby WC/showers inadequate for size of site, empty toilet rolls not replaced; basic kitchen/wash-up; inc wi-fi but weak signal; mini-markets 1 km in Halsa village Price: 260 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers; poor value given limited facilities 10 kms to ferry across Holandsfjord for walk to Engabreen Glacier |
+3 <Map> |
Polar Camping,
Hilstad
|
8754 Hilstad, Kilboghamn Tel:
|
30~31 July
|
230 NOK |
Family-run site 3kms at Hilstad, north side-lane
from Kilboghamn ferry port, in perfect location looking across fjord to headland
at foot of Telnestinden peak with globe-marker for Polar Circle Welcome: pleasant welcome from lady-owner Setting: large, gravelled upper terraced camping area with magnificent views across Sørfjord to Telnestinden and headland with globe monument marking Polar Circle; lower grassy camping area with less open views Facilities: some of best facilities of trip; modern, spotlessly clean and spacious WC/showers - 10 NOK coin for entry to shower cubicle then unlimited hot water; modern, well-appointed kitchen/wash-up and common room; inc site-wide wi-fi; washing/drying machine (extra cost); no shops nearby so go well-stocked with provisions Price: 235 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers A hospitable welcome, perfect location and excellent facilities make Polar Camping a memorable stay
**
AN EXCELLENT CAMPSITE
** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5
|
Offersøy Camping, Tjøtta
|
8860 Tjøtta Tel: |
1 August |
270 NOK UNDULY EXPENSIVE |
Small, wonderfully located, but over-expensive site set on
shore-side at SW tip of Alsta Island, 12kms south of Sandnesjøen and 7 kms north
of Tjøtta~Forvik ferry Welcome: friendly welcome from owners Setting: first unfavourable impressions are of tiny site crammed full of statics with little space for visitors; but continue past reception and huts down to shore-line where small, gravelled camping area with power looks out across mud-flats of bay, small boat-moorings and islands, with superb distant views of southern end of Seven Sisters ridge; a gloriously peaceful shore-side setting to camp Facilities: adequate and clean with individual shower/WC/WHB bathrooms; small kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide wi-fi; washing/drying machine (extra cost) Price: over-expensive at 270 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers |
+4 <Map> |
Vennesund
Brygge Camping, Vennesund
|
8920 Sømna Tel: |
2 August |
230 NOK |
Welcoming and well-appointed site located right by ferry-dock
for Vennesund~Holm ferry Welcome: smiling welcome at reception and helpful response from owner to telephone enquiry Setting: large site with several camping areas spread among huts on pine-wooded hill-side above Vennesund Sound and ferry brygge (quay); most pleasant area is flat, grassy terrace directly above sound overlooking wooded rocky slopes of Kvalvøya island on opposite side of sound; glorious spot to camp with Vennesund~Holm ferries chugging past during day and evening; a quite unique setting Facilities: rather old-fashioned but clean WC/showers; simple, straightforward but reasonably well-equipped kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide wi-fi; washing/drying machines (extra cost) Price: good value at all-inclusive 230 NOK |
+4 <Map> |
Holmset Camping, near Namsos
|
Sjøåsen, 7750 Namdalseid Tel: |
3 August
|
210 NOK |
Small, welcoming, well-kept, excellent value river-side fishing
site by Route 17 12 kms south of Namsos Welcome: friendly and hospitable welcome from the young owner Setting: set on banks of River Årgårdselva, campsite aimed primarily at fishermen but a convenient and peaceful stop-over on lower Route 17 just south of Namsos; several flat, grassy camping areas among huts, all with power Facilities: limited WC/showers but modern and clean; small, well-appointed kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide, full strength wi-fi; washing/drying machines (extra cost); Co-op shop 2 kms away Price: excellent value at 210 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers |
+4 <Map> |
WESTERN COAST OF NORWAY |
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Høgkjølen Fjellcamp, Fannrem |
Hemnekjølen, 7320 Fannrem Tel: |
4 August
|
180 NOK |
A dismally forlorn fell-land site, full of
statics with impossibly sloping camping area for visitors Welcome: pleasantly helpful welcome from owner, but that's where the positive features end! Setting: remote setting on high fell-land alongside E39 Trondheim~Kistiansund road; first impressions count here - the place seemed crammed with statics, the gravelled visitors' camping area sloped steeply in every direction so as to be virtually unusable; and to cap it all noise of digger as owner excavated rocks made for totally disturbed evening Facilities: limited and old-fashioned but clean WC/showers; small, basic kitchen/wash-up; washing machine (extra cost) with large drying room; inc wi-fi just about reaching camping area but weak signal; nearest shops 20kms in Orkanger Price: 180 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers. You get what you pay for! Site is scarcely viable |
+1
|
Atlanten
Turistsenter-Camping, Kristiansund |
Dalaveien 22, 6511 Kristiansund Tel: |
5~7 August
|
200 NOK |
Don't be fooled by the glitzy website! Set in northern outskirts
of city close to Atlantic Tunnel entrance at start of Atlantic Road; the motel
may be smart but the campsite certainly is NOT! it's a disgrace to the city of Kristiansund, with worst facilities and most noise polluted site in Norway
Welcome: the very pleasant and helpful welcome and hospitable manner from young receptionist save this place from getting an even lower rating; she was its only saving grace Setting and facilities: large motel and complex of huts leading to what should have been pleasant camping areas, but all badly run-down and neglected in much need of upgrading care and attention; some electric outlets not working, larger service house now closed leaving woefully lacking service hut; several of WCs non-functioning and only 2 showers, leading to permanent queues with large and busy site; 1 outdoor wash-up sink and an electric ring make up the so-called kitchen; but even worse is the constant 24 hour penetrating noise from ventilation system which pollutes the whole site, making pitches close to service hut unusable; pitches away from this noise are infested with building site noise; inc wi-fi but limited to reception Price: even at all-inclusive 200 NOK, this is poor value for what is a largely unusable site with inadequate and run-down facilities and excessive noise levels; it was so bad that we refused to pay for the 2nd night! Having said that, it is only site within walking distance of Kristiansund; all the more reason to smarten up its act, without raising prices to unacceptable levels; but until then, use alternative site of Byskogen Camping 4kms from centre out near airport (qv) Kristiansund is an interesting city and certainly worth a visit, with natural harbour set between its 3 islands; be sure to use harbour ferries (Sundbåt); fascinating history of dried, salted cod (klippfisk) |
-1
|
Byskogen Camping, Kristiansund |
Skogveien 38, 6517 Kristiansund Tel: |
8 August |
250 NOK |
Small, quaintly old-fashioned site set in wooded
grove 4kms from city centre on Nordlandet Island near airport Welcome: reception only manned evenings, but phone no given to call; perfunctory welcome when booking in Setting: campsite set in verdant grove, 4kms from Kristiansund centre on Nordlandet Island close to connecting bridge to Frei, and immediately alongside airport; but little aircraft noise; a pleasantly peaceful camping area, flat and grassy, with huts among the trees; reception building has the air of an old-fashioned hostel Facilities: old-fashioned but clean WC/showers (no coins needed) in basement of services building; upstairs is cosy common room and well-appointed kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide wi-fi; washing/drying machine (extra cost) Price: all-inclusive 250 NOK |
+3
|
Bjølstad Camping, Malmefjorden |
6445 Malmefjorden
Tel: |
9 August | 225 NOK |
A mediocre and noisy site, set on
steeply sloping hill-side overlooking Malmefjord Welcome: perfunctory welcome from lady-owner Setting: several terraced camping areas 300m down steeply sloping hill-side; pitches with best views over Malmefjord impossibly sloping; far too much noise disturbance from other rowdy campers Facilities: old-fashioned and mediocre; WC/showers grubby; poorly equipped kitchen/wash-up; non-functioning wi-fi Price: 225 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers |
+2 <Map> |
Mjelva
Camping, Åndalsnes |
E136, 6300 Åndalsnes
Tel: |
10~11 August |
250 NOK |
Very hospitable, well-appointed, family-run campsite in superb
location in lower Romsdalen just outside
Åndalsnes Welcome: very friendly and hospitable welcome from family who run campsite Setting: set on high shelf at side of lower Romsdalen 3kms from Åndalsnes overlooking 2 valleys, with superb views of Raumadalen mountains and Romsdalhornet peak; beautifully kept grassy camping areas with separate tent area; only downside is traffic noise from E136 in valley below, but offset by wonderful mountain views. Facilities: good, modern, clean WC/showers; small kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide wi-fi; washing/drying machines (extra cost) Price: rather expensive at 250kr inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers, but still good value
**
AN EXCELLENT CAMPSITE
** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5 <Map> |
Trollveggen Camping, Romsdalen
|
E136, 6300 Åndalsnes
Tel:
GPS: |
12 August
|
265 NOK |
A small, beautifully appointed and family-run site, wonderfully
located at the very foot of Trollveggen 6,000 feet mountain wall Welcome: hospitable and helpful welcome from staff and owners Setting: grassy, terraced camping areas set among trees at foot of Trollveggen mountain wall and immediately alongside white-water Romsdal River; large tent area in best position beneath climbing routes; you sit at your breakfast table looking straight up at Europe's highest vertical rock face towering overhead; on fine evening, setting sun glows golden on the mountain wall; settings do not come better than this Facilities: modern, clean WC/showers; basic kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide wi-fi Price: expensive at 265 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers; unique setting offsets the price, which if more reasonable would have merited a +5 rating |
+4 <Map> |
Volsdalen Camping, Ålesund |
Sjømannsvegen 1, 6008 Ålesund
GPS: |
13 August
|
225 NOK |
Small and welcoming site 1.5kms from
Ålesund centre, but totally
overwhelmed with numbers, with inadequate facilities; noisiest car park we have
ever camped in Welcome: pleasantly friendly and very helpful welcome from owner Setting: small and limited linear gravelled camping areas overlooking inner fjord with outlook to distant mountains; small, grassy tent camping area surrounded by huts; half hour walk to Ålesund centre; but site now totally overwhelmed with visitor numbers being the only remaining site in Ålesund; a dismal environment, little more than a car park with numbers shoe-horned in and very noisy from inconsiderate folk; Kiwi supermarket 400m; #618 into Ålesund from shop Facilities: well-meaning in design with 8 self-contained WC/shower/bathroom units, but given over-crowded site, inadequate in number with regular queues; inc wi-fi but limited to reception Price: 225 NOK inc SCC discount and shower tokens Despite pleasant welcome, not at all a pleasant or relaxing experience Ålesund rebuilt in 1904 in Jugenstil fashion after devastating fire, but town overwhelmed with traffic and cruise ship tourists |
+3
|
FJORD LAND AND SOGNEFJORD |
|||||
Sjøbakken Camping, Sykkylven |
6230
Sykkylven
Tel: |
14~15 August
|
270kr UNDULY EXPENSIVE FOR A VERY BASIC SITE |
A very basic site with primitive facilities and unduly expensive
prices Welcome: apparently welcoming owner until it came to paying; he charged 250 NOK despite his web site price was 195 NOK which he claimed was out of date Setting: set on former farm looking out across fjord against mountainous backdrop, just outside furniture-making town of Sykkylven; small, flat, grassy camping area terraced into slope but with only one power outlet Facilities: primitively basic WC/showers (showers are a luke warm dribble!) much in need of upgrading; basic wash-up sink under draughty covered way; no kitchen other than one electric ring for which 20 NOK was charged; inc wi-fi just about reaching camping area but very weak signal Price: at time of our visit, web site price given as 195 NOK inc 10 NOK coins for showers; in fact owner charged 245 alleging that web site was out of date; it now shows 250 NOK plus 2x10 NOK showers coins, an outrageously silly price for such a basic site
**
TRIP'S WORST CAMPSITE ** The place should be avoided - such a pity |
-2
|
Stadheimfossen
Camping, Hellesylt |
6218 Hellesylt Tel: |
16~17 August |
195 NOK |
Small site, delightfully set alongside salmon fishing river and
roaring waterfalls, with welcoming owner and very good value price
Welcome: hospitable welcome from quietly laid-back owner - "Just settle in and we'll sort it all out later" Setting: small and peaceful site with huts and salmon fishing, 2 kms from Hellesylt ferry port, magnificently set alongside white water river and eponymous Stadgheimfossen waterfalls and surrounded by wooded mountains Facilities: slightly old-fashioned but adequate WC/showers; basic kitchen/wash-up; washing/drying machines (extra cost); NO wi-fi Price: very good value 195 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers Despite the limited facilities, its hospitable welcome, excellent price and superb setting all made a stay at Stadheimfossen a truly memorable experience Ferry from Hellesylt along magnificent Geiranger Fjord 215 NOK round trip, but NOT in mid-summer with tourist hoards
**
AN EXCELLENT CAMPSITE
** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5
|
Grande
Camping, Oppstryn
|
6799 Oppstryn
Tel:
|
18~19 August |
220 NOK |
An evidently all-round excellent campsite, beautifully
located in peaceful setting at head of Strynevatn looking down length of lake
and surrounded by glacial mountains; hospitable welcome, first class
facilities inc wi-fi, and good value price; campsites do not come better than
this Welcome: smilingly hospitable welcome from charming lady-owner who attends morning and evening; friendly and helpful response to phone enquiry; telephone to confirm your arrival and settle in Setting: magnificent setting at head of turquoise-blue Strynevatn fed by glacial waters of Josterdalsbreen Glacier; some statics, but separate area in best position reserved for visitors under pines by lake shore looking directly along length of lake, enclosed by high mountains on both sides and distant roar of waterfall dropping from Glomsdalen hanging valley; a picture-perfect location Facilities: first class, recently upgraded, spotlessly clean WC/showers; well-appointed kitchen/wash-up; washing/drying machines (extra cost); inc site-wide wi-fi with full strength signal Price: excellent value at 220 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers
**
ONE OF THE TRIP'S BEST CAMPSITES
** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5+
|
Gjeilo Camping, Lom
|
2690 Skjåk, Lom Tel: |
20 August |
190 NOK |
Long-standing, family-run farm campsite set among birch and pine
groves on banks of Otta River in lower Ottadalen 7kms west of Lom Welcome: pleasantly hospitable welcome from owners, both in response to telephone enquiry and when booking in Setting: delightful setting with camping areas spread among birch and pine trees on banks of Otta River Facilities: straightforward but functional WC/showers; basic kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide wi-fi; nearest shops 7kms in Lom Price: very good value at 190 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers A good value, welcoming and straightforward site in lovely location |
+4
|
Josterdal Camping, Gjerde, Josterdalen
|
6871 Gjerde, Josterdal Tel:
|
21~22 August
|
220kr |
This has to be without doubt THE finest
campsite in Norway: wonderful mountain location, first class,
thoughtfully laid-out facilities, excellent value price, and
above all the superbly hospitable welcome from owner
Astrid and her mother See Josterdal Camping's Guest Book for the many commendations from other guests Welcome: wonderfully hospitable welcome from Astrid, a charmingly gentile lady with ready smile and warm personality, and her mother who with her husband founded the campsite in 1974; Astrid is widely travelled and experienced mountaineer with good appreciation of campers' needs which she has put to good use in designing the newly enlarged facilities building; hospitality does not come better than this Setting: campsite set within a loop of Josterdøla River which flows down from Nigardsbreen Glacier, enclosed by levée and surrounded by high mountains, at Gjerde village at head of Josterdalen; excellent, wide, flat, grassy camping area with plenty of space for tents and power outlets for campers, with well-used huts among the birches Facilities: recently enlarged and well designed facilities building with excellent WC/showers, well-equipped kitchen/wash-up, and large common room; inc site-wide wi-fi; washing/drying machines (extra cost); well-stocked mini-market in Gjerde village 5 mins walk Price: excellent value low season discount price of 220 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers 10 min drive up valley to Breheimsenteret for guided (but expensive) climbs of varying standard on Nigardsbreen Glacier
**
THE TRIP'S BEST CAMPSITE
** ** YOU MUST GO THERE ** |
+5+++
|
Stedje Camping, Sogndal |
Kyrkjevegen 2,
6851 Sogndal Tel: |
23 August | 240 NOK |
A mediocre campsite in a traffic-ridden urban environment, with
an unsmiling and inhospitable non-welcome from the owner Welcome: absolutely no welcome at all; a frosty reception from the unsmiling, uncaring madame Setting: set in former orchard in an urban location in outskirts of Sogndal, next to main Route 55 and overwhelmed by traffic noise; only consolation is the neighbouring Co-op and Rema supermarkets and VW garage, but even this did not offset the ill-gracious non-welcome Facilities: mediocre facilities - basic WC/showers with no toilet seats; basic kitchenette/wash-up - electric rings needed coins for 30 mins usage; wi-fi internet charged at 20 NOK, unprecedented in whole of Norway Price: given shortcomings, poor value at 240 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers
When shortcomings pointed out
to owner, she simply did not care; she was selling the campsite, which DESERVEDLY IS NOW CLOSED |
-1
|
Bøyum Camping, Fjærland
|
6848 Fjærland
Tel: |
25~27 Aug
|
240 NOK |
Family-run and welcoming campsite set next to the Norwegian
Glacier Museum and near to Mundal Book-Town in the delightful isolated
Fjærland valley Welcome: smilingly hospitable welcome from the couple who founded the campsite in 1994 Setting: beautiful setting at Bøyum farming village in the magnificent high and isolated Fjærland valley 2kms from Mundal Den Norske Bokbyen at the head of Fjærlandsfjord; valley now approached via Frudal and Berge Tunnels from south and Fjærlands Tunnel from north, all now toll-free; campsite set in heart of lush-green, flat dairy farming valley, surrounded by high, glacier-capped mountains inc the accessible Bøyabreen and Supphellebreen Glaciers, side glacier-tongues of Josterdalsbreen; flat, grassy/gravelled camping area with magnificent views looking up at glaciers and hanging valleys Facilities: WC/showers modern and clean; well-appointed kitchen/wash-up and common-room; inc site-wide wi-fi; washing machine (extra cost); mini-market in Mundal village Price: 240 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers Such a happy and memorable stay Be sure to visit Bøyabreen and Supphellebreen Glaciers, and Mundal Book Town for a couple of hours' browsing among 4kms of second-hand book racks; also ask for the Escape the Tarmac leaflet on local mountain walks from Glacier Museum
**
ONE OF THE TRIP'S BEST CAMPSITES
** ** THOROUGHLY RECOMMENDED ** |
+5+
|
Borgund Hyttesenter and Camping, Borgund |
6888 Borgund Tel: |
28 August |
200 NOK |
Straightforward, good value site in upper Lærdals valley, 2kms
from Borgund stave-church, but overwhelmed with traffic noise from adjacent E16
highway Welcome: perfunctory welcome from owner at reception which doubles as wayside café (gatekjøkken) serving traditional foods Setting: beautiful setting in upper Lærdals valley surrounded by high mountains; lush grassy and flat camping area strung out alongside main E16 highway, with row of attractive pastel-coloured huts; but major problem is traffic noise of heavy trucks thundering along E16 main Oslo~Bergen highway Facilities: straightforward but clean WC/showers; basic wash-up sink with hot water but NO kitchen and NO wi-fi; washing/drying machines (extra cost) Price: good value at 200 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers 2 kms from Borgund stave-church; if you visit no other stave-church, Borgund is a 'must' |
+3
|
Flåm Camping, Flåm |
Brekkevegen 12, 5743 Flåm Tel: GPS: |
29 August |
305 NOK EXTORTIONATE PRICE, INFLUENCED BY MASS TOURISM GREED OF |
A long-standing, well-appointed, family-run campsite/hostel, but
totally spoilt by excessive prices driven by the mass tourism greed of Flåm Welcome: pleasantly friendly welcome from family who run the site Setting: 5 mins walk from Flåm ferry port and railway station; campsite pleasantly laid-out in a former orchard skilfully terraced up steep hill-side with pitches among apple trees; BUT Flåm is now the world's ultimate rip-off, utterly overwhelmed by cruise ships and mass tourism; everything costs a bomb including this campsite Facilities: WC/showers modern and clean; good kitchen/wash-up; washing/drying machine (extra cost); BUT site-wide wi-fi costs 20 NOK for 12 hours Price: outrageously over-expensive at 305 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers and 20 NOK for wi-fi; driven by sheer greed exploiting the endless supply of tourists wanting to visit Flåm
FLÅM CAMPING DESERVES TO BE
BOYCOTTED FOR ITS GREEDY PRICES If you want to ride the Flåm Railway, better to camp at Lunde Camping, Aurland or Undredal and drive back through tunnel |
-1
|
Undredal Café-Camping, Undredal
|
5746 Undredal Tel:
|
30~31 August |
260 NOK |
Tiny, straightforward and peaceful site attached to café/goats
cheese shop by ferry-quay at remote fjord-side hamlet of Undredal; 6 kms down
steep and high-sided mountain valley of Undredal on southern shore of Aulands
Fjord; the campsite is run by the community and the quay-side café Welcome: friendly and helpful welcome from owner Setting: small camping area looks directly down onto the ferry landing-stage and across Aulands Fjord, overshadowed by sheer-sided mountains all round, an awe-inspiring location Facilities: facilities provided by Undredal Community in their Gjestestova (Visitor Centre) neighbouring onto the camping area; clean, modern WC/showers; wash-up with hot water but NO kitchen; washing machine (extra cost); inc wi-fi on café terrace opposite; local goats cheese tasting and sale at café Price: 260 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers; slightly expensive but worth it for a stay in this admirable community who have worked hard to protect their village's identity from the scourge of mass tourism that has ruined Flåm, and developed their own community-based distinctive local tourism Until 1988, the only access to the tiny isolated hamlet of Undredal was by ferry across Aulands Fjord which still calls regularly; when the Gudvangen Tunnel opened connecting Gudvangen with Flåm in 1991, the narrow single-track lane leading steeply down into Undredal was constructed giving the village its first road link; Undredal folk have traditionally made their living from producing and exporting goats cheese Be sure to see the tiny wooden stave-church up on hill-side with its rustic wall-paintings; if locked, arrange visit through café
***
A WONDERFULLY MEMORABLE PLACE *** |
+5
|
Vang Camping, Gudvangen
|
5747 Gudvangen Tel: |
1 Sept |
210 NOK |
Trim little straightforward, family-run site in magnificent
setting of Nærøydalen surrounded by over-towering mountain walls Welcome: pleasant welcome from owner Setting: beautiful location in narrow Nærøydalen, surrounded by 1,500m high towering cliffs and waterfalls of mountain walls enclosing the valley; traditional turf-roofed log cabins and flat, grassy camping area; but overwhelmed by traffic noise from busy adjacent E16 highway along valley Facilities: straightforward WC/showers but bright, cheery and spotlessly clean; small wash-up but NO kitchen; inc site-wide wi-fi with strong signal; washing/drying machines (extra cost); no shops nearby Price: good value at 210 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers Lovely site in wonderful location; pity about traffic noise |
+4
|
BERGEN AND SW COAST |
|||||
Bratland Camping, near Bergen |
Brattlandsveien 6, 5268 Haukland Tel:
|
2~3 Sept |
260 NOK EXPENSIVE |
Second rate, expensive campsite with dysfunctional facilities and
overwhelmed by traffic noise from adjacent Route 580 Welcome: helpful welcome from owners who provided city plans and public transport details for Bergen visit Setting: located 15kms to south of Bergen, immediately alongside Route 580 very busy with commuter traffic and heavy trucks, with appalling levels of traffic noise - if you're a light sleeper this is not the place to stay! lot of effort put into creating bays in gravelled camping areas but totally ill-conceived - too small even for our small campervan with risk of bumping doors on raised side walls; the least unattractive of the camping areas is closest to road and traffic noise; local traffic to industrial estate passes through site adding to traffic noise; sloping and uneven surface makes levelling impossible; all in all pretty hopeless! Facilities: reasonable kitchen/wash-up, but ill-designed and dysfunctional WC/showers; inc wi-fi but weak signal; washing machine (extra cost); most useful feature was ease of public transport into Bergen - #90 bus outside campsite to Nesttun then Bergen Light Railway into centre (Remember to ask for half-price senior/honnør tickets) Price: 260 NOK inc 2x10 NOK coins for showers Bergen is least interesting of Norwegian cities - over-rated, over-whelmed with tourists, over-commercialised and over-priced |
+1
|
Langenuen Motel and Camping, Stord |
Børtveit 293, 5414 Stord Tel: |
4 Sept |
250 NOK |
A beautifully located site BUT with the rudest, most offensively
ill-mannered owners ever encountered in 45 years of camping - which is saying
something! Welcome: the most comically offensive non-welcome ever experienced from both the owner and his wife; their behaviour towards guests makes Basil and Sybil Fawlty (John Cleese and Prunella Scales) of the 1970s TV series Fawlty Towers seem acceptably normal!! they both need reminding that to treat paying guests in such an offensive manner is a certain recipe for commercial failure Setting: gravelled camping area set on terrace overlooking Langenuen Sound on east coast of Stord Island, a beautiful location but overwhelmed by traffic noise from adjacent E39, - with constant roar of traffic sounding like aircraft engines Facilities: basic, old-fashioned WC/showers and wash-up; inc wi-fi but signal so weak as to be unusable; washing/drying machines (extra cost) Price: all-inclusive 250 NOK
**
THE MOST OFFENSIVE OWNERS EVER
ENCOUNTERED ** |
-3 <Map> |
Vølstadskogen Camping, Sandes near Stavanger |
Gamle Austvollvei 5' 4312 Sandnes Tel: |
5~6 Sept
|
270 NOK UNDULY EXPENSIVE |
Second rate campsite, unduly expensive, with petty, officious and
unhelpful owners, and poorly designed, dysfunctional facilities Welcome: apparently welcoming greeting in fact masked officious, petty and unhelpful attitudes from owners; unconcerned about not providing city maps for Stavanger Setting: located near Sandes 12kms south of Stavanger; broad, but sloping camping grassy camping area which tends to get water-logged in heavy rain; with formally marked-out pitches, this is another site to allocate a numbered pitch meaning a return to reception to change it Facilities: totally ill-designed and dysfunctional: main problem was having to use card-key for facilities, which of course you forgot; 2nd problem was that 30 NOK deposit charged for each key; 3rd problem was attitudinal - you can only have 2nd key if you pay another deposit! 4th problem - WC/showers were totally dysfunctional, long, narrow cubicle with WC at 1 end and loo-roll out of arm's reach at far end, and WHB with wide over-shelf so positioned to bang your head when cleaning teeth; all very unacceptable! wi-fi internet but charged at extra 20 NOK for 24 hours; no nearby buses into Stavanger Price: poor value at unduly expensive 270 NOK - basic price 220 NOK + 2x15 NOK for showers + 20 NOK for wi-fi With all of this, and with Mosvangen NAF Camping in Stavanger even more outrageously priced, Stavanger is scarcely worth a visit |
-1
|
Steinsnes Camping, Egersund |
Jærveien 190, 4370 Egersund Tel: |
7 Sept
|
225 NOK |
A good, functional campsite in pleasant location by fast-flowing
river; some traffic noise but excellent facilities Welcome: gruff, rather perfunctory welcome from glum-faced lady at reception Setting: road-side setting in outskirts of small port-industrial town of Egersund; camping area laid out in rows alongside huts which lined the fast-flowing salmon fishing river whose pleasant sound helped to mask out traffic noise; part-grassed/part-gravelled pitches slightly sloping Facilities: first class facilities which set a standard other campsites should follow: 8 integrated bathrooms (WC-shower-WHB - no coins!), each thoughtfully laid out - designer clearly had ready understanding of campers' needs: plenty of hooks for clothes and wash-bag, additional hook by shower for towel, good-sized over-shelf at WHB but set to 1 side to avoid bumping head; stool to sit on for drying feet; ultra luxurious loo-roll and paper hand towels; all you could ask for, spotlessly clean and delight to use!; older kitchen/wash-up, ? next on upgrading list; inc site-wide wi-fi with strong signal; washing/drying machines (extra cost); supermarkets in Egersund 3kms Price: excellent value at all-inclusive 225 NOK, with no hidden extras |
+3
|
SOUTH COAST OF NORWAY |
|||||
Lindenes Camping, Lindenes |
4521 Lindenes Tel: |
8 Sept |
290 NOK EXCESSIVELY EXPENSIVE |
Small but excessively expensive site, set in cove close to
Lindenes Lighthouse, Norway's southernmost point 2,518kms from Nordkapp Welcome: quietly welcome reception from owner who provided helpful information sheet about the locality Setting: located 20kms from main E39 along narrow Route 460 side lane; camping area clustered around a small shore-side cove looking out to sea close to Lille Havn and Lindenes Fyr at tip of peninsula forming Norway's southernmost point; gravelled pitches but even these get wet after rain Facilities: old-fashioned, mediocre WC/showers, with just 1 shower open late season meaning queues; basic kitchenette/wash-up; wi-fi charged at additional cost and expensive 35 NOK Price: excessively expensive with all cumulative charges - basic price 235 NOK + 2x10 NOK coins for showers + 35 NOK for wi-fi |
+2 <Map> |
Aire at Skærgårdshallen Sports Centre, Langesund
|
35 Stathelleveien, 3970 Langersund GPS: 59.012820 9.743210 |
9 Sept |
150 NOK |
Camping aire at car park of Skærgårdshallen Sports Centre,
Langesund, very convenient for Langesund~Hirtshals ferry Welcome: pleasant and helpful welcome from sports centre receptionist on 1st floor of sports hall Setting: fully functional camping aire set up in corner of sports centre car park; some noise from passing traffic Facilities: power outlets and water-filling hose; WC/showers in sports centre (0830~2030 opening hours) in 2 excellent, spotlessly clean integrated bathrooms reserved for campers; no kitchen/wash-up; wi-fi in sports centre; mini-market across road Price: excellent value at all-inclusive 150 NOK This is only camping facility available now in Langesund |
+3
|
WEBSITES LISTING CAMPSITES FOR NORWAY
the most useful web sites we found to help with pre-trip planning were:
| |||||||||
SCANDINAVIAN CAMPING CARD (CAMPING KEY EUROPE)
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