Winter is Coming

When I chose Norway, I was thinking of beautiful places in my mind that I hadn't yet visited.  I had a picture in my head and I was sorely wrong. It was far more beautiful and raw than I ever could have imagined. This is the TRUE North. 

This was from the plane and I knew if it looked this good from the air, I couldn't wait to touch down and explore it firsthand!

When I arrived, I was treated to a bright blue sky and cold temps! The first day, the temperature was -9 C and felt like winter for sure! I was a little surprised there wasn't more of a language barrier, but the more I travel the more I discover just how many people learn and know English. I was able to get directions to the bus stop just outside the airport so I could catch the bus to the city centre. It was a simple process to purchase a ticket, which was nice. I downloaded an app, bought my ticket online and showed it to the driver. Easy.

I walked from the city centre to my airbnb, which had a view of the sea.  The walk was a crisp cold one that gave me an incredible view!!

The Northern Lights Cathedral

The Cathedral of the Northern Lights was on my route and I had seen it in pictures beforehand but wow!!  It truly is an artwork in the form of architecture! At night, the lower windows are lit up in various colors representing the northern lights. Beautiful!!

View from my Airbnb room

Once I arrived at my room, the view did NOT disappoint!!  This was my view right out my bedroom window. I could definitely get used to waking up to this daily!!

Other than watching/chasing the lights, I went on a few hikes on a local ski trail. There were several spots along the hike where the view made me speechless! The hiking was probably my favorite thing about Alta.

I also ventured to the Alta Museum, a 4 km walk from my room. It was warmer that day with some wind and sun. A great day for a walk and an adventure. The history of the area is mind blowing! I was a little disappointed I didn't get to see the rock carvings because of the snow, the history and story of the people was fascinating!

View from Alta Museum terrace. The rocks with the carvings are down towards the sea, covered in snow.

These carvings are 6000 years old, nearly perfectly preserved in the rocks surrounding the museum. The stories these carvings told were so interesting, it felt like I was transported back in time. I was very glad I made the trek to the museum, it was well worth the walk and admission!! 

Because Alta is so north and its winter, the sun doesn't get much higher than a 45 degree angle in the sky. This angle made for some very pretty sun shimmers and rays in between the trees and on the snow. I was able to capture a few photos of the 'noon day' sun. 

Alta Norway has a piece of my heart and I have fallen in love with this frozen mystical place. I encourage everyone to add Norway to their travel 'bucket list' as a place to experience Mother Nature as she was intended to be experienced. Norway is raw, simple and yet so beautifully intriguing.  

Until next time, be brave and keep exploring the hidden treasures of the globe, like Alta Norway! You won't be disappointed!

Much Love,

H