This week we continue our photo report of the Scandinavian summer with a coverage of the Varanger peninsula. The Varanger peninsula is situated in the utmost north-eastern part of Norway. It is surrounded by the Tana fjord in the west, the Barentsz Sea in the north, and the Varanger fjord in the east. The area is well-known among bird watchers and photographers as the area is home to some spectacular arctic bird species, like gyrfalcon and snowy owl. Also from the viewpoint of landscape photography, the Varanger area is certainly worth a visit. It has a stunning rock coast in the north and the extensive views from the tundra fjells in the central part are breath taking. We spend a few days in the Båtsfjord area, followed by some days in the neighbourhood of Vardø.
The Båtsfjord area: tundra, fjells, and abundant bird life
The fjell landscape in the central part of Varanger during midsummer night. During those nights the light is very special with intense yellow, orange to red tones. The lakes are home to loons and long-tailed ducks.
A complete rainbow remained visible for over an hour during one of our midnight drives through the arctic tundra. I like the two arcs in the picture. The atmosphere was complete with the typical calls of some characteristic arctic bird species.
A territorial golden plover in its biotope.
Lapland bunting, a common resident of the tundra uplands.
Adult ringed plover backlit by the midsummer night sun.
The Vardø area: scenic rock coast at its best
View on the spectacular route towards Hamningberg, an abandoned fishing town along the Barentsz sea. It is like driving through a moon landscape. Don't forget to eat the waffles in Hamningberg. The best in Norway!
The tectonic plates almost rise perpendicular from the earth surface. Every second, the massive stones are beaten by the inevitable surf.
Hopefully you enjoyed the pictures. Questions? Please feel free to contact me on info@ifornature.nl. I would be pleased to help you on your way to Varanger!
Dirk-Jan
