Prestvannet Lake Tromsø
Prestvannet Lake: Tromsø's accessible haven for Northern Lights, serene winter skating, and peaceful nature walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for Northern Lights
Prestvannet Lake Tromsø
Best Time
Best chance for Northern Lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Prestvannet Lake: Tromsø's accessible haven for Northern Lights, serene winter skating, and peaceful nature walks.
"This place is a Northern Lights hidden secret, easy to find and no need for a tour guide!"
🎯 Self-Guided Aurora Hunt
Take a bus from Tromsø center to Prestvannet Lake for a great, free aurora viewing spot.
⛸️ Winter Ice Skating
The lake freezes in winter, offering a magical experience for ice skaters.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Northern Lights Spectacle
Prestvannet Lake
Witness the magical aurora borealis dance across the Arctic sky from this accessible viewing spot.
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Frozen Lake Serenity
Prestvannet Lake
Experience the tranquility of a frozen lake in winter, ideal for ice skating or peaceful walks.
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City Park Nature Escape
Prestvannet Lake
Enjoy a calm and beautiful natural escape within the city, with lovely walking tracks and diverse birdlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Aurora Viewing Without a Tour
Winter Wonderland Activities
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Self-Guided Aurora Hunt
Take a bus from Tromsø center to Prestvannet Lake for a great, free aurora viewing spot.
⛸️ Winter Ice Skating
The lake freezes in winter, offering a magical experience for ice skaters.
🚶♀️ Easy City Access
Accessible by bus, making it a convenient escape from the city bustle.
📸 Capture the Magic
Even with basic gear, you can capture stunning aurora timelapses here.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Self-Guided Aurora Hunt
Take a bus from Tromsø center to Prestvannet Lake for a great, free aurora viewing spot.
⛸️ Winter Ice Skating
The lake freezes in winter, offering a magical experience for ice skaters.
🚶♀️ Easy City Access
Accessible by bus, making it a convenient escape from the city bustle.
📸 Capture the Magic
Even with basic gear, you can capture stunning aurora timelapses here.
🐦 Birdwatching Paradise
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and diverse bird species, especially in spring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Prestvannet Lake is highly praised as a hidden gem for Northern Lights viewing, offering an accessible and free alternative to tours. Visitors enjoy its natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and winter activities like ice skating. While some have not seen the aurora, many appreciate it as a lovely spot for stargazing and relaxing walks.
"This place is a Northern Lights hidden secret. Just got a short taxi ride from the centre of Toronto. Go from the car park at the side of the lake to the viewing platform and you will see some amazing Northern Lights if the sky is clear on the best days. There is no need to pay a huge amount or a tour guide as it is so easy to find. Then walk back to town around half an hour and stop at egons for a drink and to celebrate what you saw."
Animated Science
"Really great spot to try to see the northern lights (or even shooting stars). I was there just yesterday and the night before (from around 9 p.m. till midnight) and saw them both times (thanks to the great weather conditions). Perfect option for people without a car, since one can easily reach the lake with the bus and also not a long drive from the city, but far enough that the sky is actually dark enough to see the aurora.
Side note: In winter you very likely see the lake at all, because it usually freezes over and will be covered in snow. You can sit on the railing of the rack, makes for a nice spot to enjoy the show!
Side note for solo travellers: there will probably be other people out to try and see the northern lights so you won't be alone."
Emma Yameogo
"I like the place really to walk and relax!
We was there many day to catch the aurora butwe found nothing 😅
It’s just nice place to watch the stars ⭐️✨"
Shadi Alhannat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Prestvannet Lake is easily accessible by bus from Tromsø city center. Several bus lines stop nearby, making it a convenient option for those without a car.
No, it's a relatively short bus ride or a longer walk from the city center, offering a quick escape into nature.
Yes, there is a car park available at the side of the lake, providing easy access for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Buses are a great way to reach Prestvannet Lake for aurora viewing, as it's far enough from city lights to offer dark skies.
Taking a bus or enjoying a scenic walk from the city center are both excellent ways to reach Prestvannet Lake for a relaxing stroll.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Prestvannet Lake is a public park and lake, so there are no admission fees or tickets required to visit.
Prestvannet Lake is open to the public at all times, making it accessible for both daytime visits and nighttime aurora viewing.
Information on parking fees can vary, but generally, parking in public areas around Tromsø can incur charges. It's best to check local signage.
Yes, when the lake is safely frozen, ice skating is a popular free activity for visitors.
The viewing platform at Prestvannet Lake is part of the public park and does not have an entrance fee.
🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy Northern Lights viewing, ice skating in winter, birdwatching, walking the scenic tracks, and simply relaxing in nature. +1
Yes, it's considered a hidden gem for aurora viewing due to its dark skies and accessibility from the city.
In winter, Prestvannet Lake typically freezes over and is covered in snow, creating a beautiful winter landscape perfect for activities like ice skating.
Yes, the park offers wonderful tracks for walking and exploring the natural surroundings.
While it's generally safe, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings. You'll likely find other aurora watchers there, adding to the sense of security.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself, the surrounding natural landscape, and the sky (especially for aurora) offer numerous photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! Prestvannet Lake is a prime location for capturing the aurora borealis, even with less advanced equipment.
While a full-frame camera is great, even APS-C cameras can capture stunning aurora timelapses at Prestvannet Lake.
Yes, the lake, mountains, and birdlife provide beautiful subjects for daytime photography, especially during spring.
Sunrise and sunset can offer dramatic lighting, while midday provides clear views of the landscape and any wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The park's walking tracks are also great for little legs to explore, and the chance to spot birds can be an exciting activity. It's a safe and easy place to visit, with plenty of open space for children to play and enjoy the fresh Arctic air. For aurora viewing, it's a more relaxed option than a long tour. Families can take a bus, enjoy the walk to the viewing spot, and experience the magic of the Northern Lights without the pressure of a structured tour.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and drinks to enjoy by the lake, further reducing costs. The opportunity to witness the Northern Lights or enjoy a peaceful walk in a beautiful natural setting for free is a major highlight for budget-conscious visitors.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
The park offers a peaceful escape for a solo walk during the day, and the accessibility means you can easily return to the city center if needed. It's a great spot to connect with nature and potentially meet fellow travelers who share your interest in the Arctic wonders.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Chasing the Aurora Borealis at Prestvannet Lake
For those looking to capture the magic, Prestvannet Lake is a fantastic location. Even with standard camera equipment, visitors have managed to capture stunning timelapses of the aurora dancing overhead.
The serene environment, with the lake as a foreground element, adds a unique dimension to aurora photography. Remember to check the aurora forecast and dress warmly, as winter nights can be very cold. While the primary draw is the aurora, the lake's natural beauty also makes it a worthwhile visit during the day. The surrounding landscape offers a peaceful escape, and the presence of various bird species adds to the tranquil atmosphere, particularly in spring.
Winter Activities and Frozen Beauty
+1 Many visitors enjoy gliding across the smooth ice, surrounded by the picturesque Arctic scenery. It's a quintessential Tromsø winter experience that offers both fun and a unique perspective of the natural landscape. Beyond ice skating, the frozen lake and its snowy surroundings provide a serene environment for leisurely walks or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of a Tromsø winter. The crisp air and the stark, beautiful landscape create a peaceful atmosphere.
Even if you don't skate, walking around the lake or finding a spot to sit and admire the view is a rewarding experience.
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