North Cape
At 71°10'21'', North Cape is the northernmost point of the European mainland
Imagine going on a journey, northbound, passing rough waters or snow covered soil, and suddenly ahead of you, a mountain cliff rises 307 meters above the Arctic Ocean. While the travellers in earlier years had to climb up, today it is accessible by bus from Honningsvåg.
Discovered in 1553
The feeling of walking on to the cliff is extraordinary and is like being at the end of the world. The first explorers reached this majestic cliff in 1553, in search of the North-eastern Passage. Two of the three British ships never returned home, the third survived to name it North Cape.
Sparked by the King
More than 100 years later Italian priest Francesco Negri arrived at the same place, at what is described as purely a tourist trip. But it was not until 1873 when King Oscar climbed these steep cliffs that North Cape really became a tourist attraction, as the king´s effort sparked great interest all over the world.
Look up to the skies
Today there is a combined museum and restaurant at the plateau, where you can learn more on the early expeditions to North Cape and watch a panoramic film that takes you through four seasons in a landscape full of contrasts, light and breath taking scenery. North Cape is a spectacular place for experiencing both The Northern Lights in the winter and the summer Midnight Sun.
And do not forget – the symbolic Globe monument marking that you have come to the end point of Europe is obligatory for pictures.
