Discover Balsfjord: Fjord Nature and Cultural History

Balsfjord is a threshold fjord with its own stock of Pacific herring, its own capelin stock and a resident cod stock. Malangsfjorden, also called Malangen, is one of the two fjords that make up Balsfjord. The waterscape and nature are therefore just as much a part of your stay as the destination’s cultural sites.

When looking for a hotel in Balsfjord, it helps to first consider what you want from your trip: would you like to spend time outdoors, learn about the area’s history, or combine the two? The places and activities below offer different ways to do so.

Fjord, wetlands and activities

The Balsfjord wetland system consists of the Sørkjosleira and Kobbevågen nature reserves, which are protected as Ramsar sites. In summer, mountain hikes, fishing and paddling are especially enjoyable. If you are planning a different activity, Balsfjord also has a varied network of cross-country ski trails across diverse terrain. Grooming and conditions vary by season.

Since January 2026, the Stikk UT hiking trail marking and registration system has replaced the former “Ti på topp” competition in Balsfjord. When planning, bear in mind that the local system has changed. Parts of Balsfjord can be explored on foot or by bicycle along village roads and trails; route conditions may vary.

Rock carvings and cultural history

At Tennes, the rock carvings include more than 55 figures carved into stone over 6,000 years ago. The Gråbergan rock carving field is one of the fields mapped in the Tennes area. The rock carving sites have footpaths, signs and lighting. Check current conditions before your visit.

Another special place to visit is Aursfjordsaga, the only preserved sash sawmill in Northern Norway. Ingebregt Eliassen originally built it in 1796. From May to September, Aursfjordsaga is open to groups and school classes by request. The season and booking requirement are therefore important to keep in mind when planning your visit.

Balsfjord Church also connects history with present-day life: built in 1856, it is a protected cultural monument, has 400 seats and is known for its good acoustics. In Storsteinnes, the Balsfjord Fjord Museum/Wetland Centre presents natural and cultural history through exhibitions and visitor activities. The natural history exhibitions cover birds, predators, insects, plants and the geology of the surrounding area; exhibition content may change.

The fishing vessel MS “Terje” was built at Tennes in 1922 and brought ashore in 2002. After extensive work, it was opened to the public in 2022. These dates tell the story of the vessel’s construction, changes and later presentation to the public.

Getting around and planning your trip

The E6 runs through Balsfjord; the E6 and E8 meet at Nordkjosbotn. Bus services connect Balsfjord with Tromsø and several other places in Troms. Routes and timetables vary, so check them before travelling. This transport information gives you a starting point for planning your journey and excursions together.

Selnes Gård, near Laksvatn, offers horseback rides on Icelandic horses. Booking arrangements may vary, so confirm the details in advance. Seasonal farm products may also be available there, including eggs, carrots, strawberries, sheepskins and more; the selection changes throughout the year. You can therefore consider activities and farm products as separate aspects of your trip planning.

Discover more destinations: Balsfjord, Nordkjosbotn, Mortenhals, Meistervik, Storsteinnes, Laksvatn, Karlsøy, Torsken.

For the main travel guide: Troms.