Introducing Vadsø
The administrative centre of Finnmark, Vadsø was the site of large-scale immigration from Finland; in the mid-19th century the town’s population was 50% Kven, as the Fins were known. A monument at the north end of Tollbugata commemorates this cultural heritage. Vadsø is also renowned as a site for polar exploration, with several expeditions having started or ended here. Like other Finnmark towns, it was badly mauled, by both Russian bombers and retreating Nazi troops, in WWII.
Advertisement
In the cemetery on Vadsø island, across a short bridge from the mainland, rest the remains of several Pomors, Russian traders and fisherfolk from the White Sea area, who prospered here in the 17th century. There are also traces of several protected prehistoric turf huts. If visiting in early summer, watch for the rare Steller’s eider, a duck that nests here.
The tourist office (78 94 04 44; www.varanger.com; 10am-6pm Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm Sat & Sun mid-Jun–mid-Aug, 9am-3pm Mon-Fri rest-of-year) is at Kierkegate 15.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
-
RE: Hurtigruten is VIDEO STREAMING LIVE Bergen-Kirkenes voyage June 16-21
by DelmarWilliams 17 June 2011
Here is the NORTHBOUND SUMMER SCHEDULE. Norway uses Central European time which is 6 hours ahead of east coast USA time. Subtract 6…
-
RE: Pasvikdalen and Grense Jakobselv
by netts09 04 June 2009
haha, "bushland". that's funny! there is abseloutly NO bushes from Vadsø and out to Vardø. about if it's any sense to go to pasvik before…
-
Vardø to Hamningberg by bike?
by regina 01 August 2007
Just back from Vardø and Hamningberg, after a ten day driving/tenting stint in my birthplace.
There might be a chance for renting…
In our shop
Bags feeling light?
Coffee table looking bare?
Get your guidebooks, travel goods, even individual chapters, right here.
Hotels & Hostels
-
Book now
Rica Hotel Vadsø
Vadsø -
Book now
Vadsø Apartments
Vadsø -
Book now
Vestre Jakobselv Camping
Vadsø
Advertisement






