Prestvannet Nature Reserve - Image 1
1 / 3

Prestvannet Nature Reserve

4.7
·1k reviews·, Norway

A tranquil nature reserve near Tromsø, perfect for aurora viewing, scenic walks, and experiencing seasonal beauty year-round.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter evenings

Best for aurora viewing

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Prestvannet Nature Reserve - Image 1

Prestvannet Nature Reserve

Best Time

Winter evenings

Best for aurora viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil nature reserve near Tromsø, perfect for aurora viewing, scenic walks, and experiencing seasonal beauty year-round.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"An excellent place to see the aurora if there are no clouds. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

Aurora Viewing Tip

Prime spot for Northern Lights, easily accessible from Tromsø city center.

Navigation Aid

Use a trail app like AllTrails to explore the many paths and avoid getting lost.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 1,425 reviews

Type

Hiking Area

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Northern Lights Spectacle

Northern Lights Spectacle

Witness the magical aurora borealis dance across the night sky in this accessible, dark viewing location.

Reddit
Lakeside Stroll

Lakeside Stroll

Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake, taking in the scenic views and diverse birdlife.

Reddit
Autumn Foliage

Autumn Foliage

Experience vibrant autumn colors amidst the trees and scrublands, a beautiful alternative to city views.

Reddit
Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland

Explore the snow-covered trails for walking, skiing, or cycling in a fairytale-like setting.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Aurora Viewing Spot

Prestvannet is a prime spot for Northern Lights viewing due to its relative darkness compared to the city center. It's easily accessible, making it a great option if you can't venture far from Tromsø. Reddit

Year-Round Nature Escape

Beyond aurora, this reserve offers beautiful walks in autumn colors, snowy landscapes in winter for skiing or cycling, and birdwatching opportunities. Reddit

Best Times

When
Winter evenings
Why
Best for aurora viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Vibrant fall colors
Crowd
Low
When
Spring mornings
Why
Birdwatching opportunities
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Bro really did know a spot. #tromsø #brosaidheknewaspot #norway🇳🇴 #travel #traveltiktok #view #snow #highestintheroom
@lbboys18
6M likes • 33.6M views

Aurora Viewing Tip

Prime spot for Northern Lights, easily accessible from Tromsø city center. Reddit

Navigation Aid

Use a trail app like AllTrails to explore the many paths and avoid getting lost. Reddit

Norway is pure magic 🥺✨💙🌚 #tromso #norway
@mariztravels
189.7K likes • 1.3M views
playing eskimo ☃️ #tromsø #norway #fypage #skiseason
@foundinkwt
178.8K likes • 2.2M views

Winter Activities

Perfect for walking, skiing, or cycling in the snow-covered landscape. Reddit

Birdwatching

Visit in spring for a chance to spot diverse bird species around the lake. Reddit

A complete Tromsø travel guide This is my second time in Tromsø, so I’ve used bits we did in each trip to make this travel guide for you! ❤️ ☕️ Cosy cafes Risø Kaffebar Smørtorget Svermeri Kafé og Redesign 🍲 Places to eat lunch/dinner Art Café Bistro Størhus McDonald’s (this is silly but it’s the northernmost in the world and they do sweet potato fries lol) 💫 Tours Tromsø Arctic Reindeer Wha...
@thechaosdiaries
149.7K likes • 1.4M views

Tips

from all over the internet

Aurora Viewing Tip

Prime spot for Northern Lights, easily accessible from Tromsø city center. Reddit

Navigation Aid

Use a trail app like AllTrails to explore the many paths and avoid getting lost. Reddit

Winter Activities

Perfect for walking, skiing, or cycling in the snow-covered landscape. Reddit

Birdwatching

Visit in spring for a chance to spot diverse bird species around the lake. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Prestvannet Nature Reserve as an excellent, accessible spot for viewing the Northern Lights, praising its relative darkness compared to the city center. It's also highly regarded for its beautiful walking trails, especially during autumn for foliage and winter for snowy landscapes, offering a peaceful natural escape.

"An excellent place to see the aurora if there are no clouds. A nice place to walk and also see birds."

Rosemary Bernfeld

"I mean we saw the Aurora here, so it has to be 5 stars! The park was dark so I can't comment on much but as a location to view the northern lights, it's very good. It is still very much a city location so light levels will never be low but as it is only a short drive, taxi trip or bus ride from the centre, it's a great option for those unable to travel into open countryside."

Nick Day

"We stayed in an airbnb near the park and it was a very good decision. We were able to see the northern lights directly from the park. It’s a beautiful place and I would totally recommend at least walking around the lake and enjoying the view."

Alina Marina

What People Like

Excellent aurora viewing
Accessible nature walks
Beautiful seasonal scenery

What People Dislike

Can still have some light pollution

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Prestvannet Nature Reserve is a short drive, taxi trip, or bus ride from Tromsø city center, making it a convenient option for aurora viewing and nature walks. Reddit

Yes, it is accessible by bus from Tromsø city center, offering an easy way to reach the reserve without a car. Reddit

For exploring the numerous paths, it's recommended to have a good walking trail app installed, such as AllTrails, to help you navigate and discover different routes. Reddit

While specific parking details aren't widely mentioned, its accessibility by public transport suggests it's not solely reliant on car access. Check local transport information for the most up-to-date details. Reddit

Yes, cycling is mentioned as an activity within the reserve, and it's likely accessible by bike from Tromsø, especially during snow-free months. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Prestvannet Nature Reserve is a public nature area, and there are no entrance fees mentioned. It's a free-to-access natural space for everyone to enjoy. Reddit

As a nature reserve, Prestvannet is generally open 24/7, allowing visitors to experience it at any time, though aurora viewing is best at night. Reddit

No booking is required as it's a natural reserve. You can visit spontaneously, but checking weather conditions, especially for aurora, is advised. Reddit

General nature reserve guidelines apply, such as respecting wildlife and not littering. Specific restrictions are not widely noted, but always be mindful of the natural environment. Reddit

Absolutely! It's an excellent destination for a day trip, offering various activities like walking, birdwatching, and enjoying the scenery, with options for longer exploration via its trails. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking, birdwatching, photography, and in winter, skiing or cycling. It's also a popular spot for aurora borealis viewing. Reddit+1

Yes, it's considered an excellent place to see the aurora due to its relative darkness compared to the city center, making it a great accessible option. Reddit

The reserve is known for its birdlife, especially in spring. You might also encounter various flora, including mushrooms and trees with beautiful autumn colors. Reddit+1

Yes, there are many paths and tracks stretching across the area. Using a trail app like AllTrails is recommended for navigation. Reddit

The terrain varies, with lakeside paths and trails extending up hills. In winter, it can be covered in snow, suitable for skiing and cycling. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lake offers beautiful reflections, especially during sunrise or sunset. For aurora photography, find an open area away from direct light sources. Reddit

Absolutely. Its location offers darker skies than the city center, providing a good backdrop for capturing the Northern Lights. Reddit

Nature photography is very popular, capturing the changing seasons, birdlife, and the aurora borealis. Reddit+1

Consider visiting during the golden hours for landscapes and be patient for aurora shots. A tripod is essential for low-light photography. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in nature reserves before flying. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2
Prestvannet Nature Reserve (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide