Alta, Norway
Alta, Norway
Description
View cruises with Alta, NorwayAlta is known as the "City of the Northern Lights" and people from around the world come here to watch the spectacular phenomenon known as the Aurora Borealis. In 1899, the world's first Northern Lights observatory was built on Halddetoppen just outside of Alta. But Finnmark's largest city has more to offer than bright dancing lights. Alta's the gateway to unspoiled beauties such as the Finnmarksvidda plateau and the Sautso, often called Northern Europe's Grand Canyon. From the UNESCO-protected rock carvings at the Alta Museum to the fascinating Sami culture, Alta is a tantalizing treasure just waiting to be discovered.
Points of Interest
- Alta Museum
- Sami Siidan
- Alta Dam
- Sautso Power Plant
- Sami Camp
- Alta Canyon
- Maze Sami Village
More about Alta, Norway Points of Interest
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Alta Museum -
Among the exhibitions detailing Sami culture and history is the mile-long outdoor footpath containing 85 petroglyphs. This spectacular rock art, placed on UNESCO'S World Heritage Site list, dates back thousands of years.
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Sami Siidan -
A siida is a seasonal community inhabited by the Sami, Scandinavia's indigenous, semi-nomadic people, and is used as a foraging area for their reindeer.
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Alta Dam -
Measuring seven miles long and 1,200 feet deep, the Alta River meanders through Sautso's high cliffs. In 1982, a dam was built upstream from the canyon but the surroundings remain a breathtaking and vital area.
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Sautso Power Plant -
Located in Northern Europe's largest canyon, this hydroelectric station was the scene of protests 35 years ago. Today, it not only supplies power to the region but offers spectacular views from the 360-foot high dam.
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Sami Camp -
Authentic Sami homesteads include a tent called a lavvu, which is usually filled with reindeer pelts. Visits include a traditional Sami meal made of reindeer meat and potatoes, and served with home baked bread.
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Alta Canyon -
Carved out by the Alta River, this stunning natural wonder, known as the "Grand Canyon" of Northern Europe, boasts rugged cliffs that soar 1,300 feet high and phenomenal scenery.
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Maze Sami Village -
Declared a heritage area in 1972, this tiny town of 350 people is known for its hospitality. Visits include a chance to learn about their way of life and be entertained by stories and songs.
