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  >  Fjords   >  11.Unveiling Arctic Wildlife: A Drive To Polar Park In Bardu

24th April – An Arctic Expedition to Polar Park

Embarking on a thrilling journey, I set my sights on Polar Park, a wildlife sanctuary nestled in Bardu, Troms County. The anticipation of encountering Nordic fauna, including formidable predators like the brown bear, lynx, wolf, and wolverine, fueled my excitement for this 180-kilometer drive from Tromso. The scenic highway, adorned with snow-capped mountains, promised a picturesque journey of approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Prelude in Tromso: REMA 1000 Pit Stop

Before hitting the road, a brief stop at Tromso’s REMA 1000 supermarket became a prelude to the Arctic adventure. A selection of chocolates, snacks, and a quick restroom break set the stage for the road trip ahead. The on-site café, offering hot dogs, pastries, and grilled sausages, provided a taste of local flavors, preparing me for the culinary surprises that lay ahead.

Enchanting Scenery: Highway Highlights

As I navigated through the Arctic highways, the breathtaking scenery unfolded, showcasing the pristine beauty of snow-clad peaks. The journey itself became an integral part of the Arctic experience, each kilometer immersing me deeper into the enchanting wilderness.

Polar Park Intrigue: A Glimpse of Arctic Predators

Arriving at Polar Park, the air buzzed with anticipation. The offseason visit limited my wildlife encounters, but a brief stop allowed me to catch a glimpse of the majestic wolves. The bears, enveloped in their seasonal slumber, remained elusive, leaving me yearning for a more robust Arctic wildlife encounter.

Exploring Polar Park: A Nordic Fauna Haven

Polar Park stands as a haven for Nordic fauna, featuring not only the renowned predators but also reindeer, moose, red deer, and muskox. For those seeking an extended Arctic retreat, the park offers dedicated parking for campers and caravans, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the Arctic wonders for several days.

Arctic Culture Immersion: Winter Wonderland Experience

While my visit coincided with the offseason, I gleaned insights into the park’s winter wonderland allure. The park, adorned in a blanket of snow and embraced by sub-zero temperatures, beckons winter enthusiasts to experience the Arctic culture. Winter visits heighten the chances of encountering wolves and lynx, creating a magical ambiance under the northern lights.

Culinary Delights and Log Cabin Retreats

Polar Park doesn’t just offer wildlife encounters; it extends an opportunity to savor traditional Norwegian dinners and beverages. The park’s restaurant beckons visitors to relish Nordic flavors amidst the Arctic wilderness. For a more immersive experience, log cabins, adorned with stylish wooden tables and reindeer skin-covered benches, can be booked. A central bonfire enhances the ambiance, creating an unforgettable Arctic retreat for up to 45 people.

Arctic Expeditions from Narvik and Tromso: Tour Bus Adventures

For those seeking guided Arctic expeditions, daily tour buses operate between Narvik and Tromso, offering a seamless journey to Polar Park. The tours, available from December to March, provide an enriching experience, bringing the Arctic wonders closer to every adventurer.

As the day unfolded at Polar Park, the Arctic mysteries left an indelible mark, fueling my eagerness to delve even deeper into the Arctic realms. The road ahead promised more Arctic adventures, each kilometer holding the potential for new encounters and awe-inspiring moments in this frozen wilderness.

To be continued as I continue my Arctic road trip, venturing towards Nordkapp.

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