Encompassing the island of Magerøya and several mainland villages, Nordkapp lies at the most northerly point of continental Europe. It’s famed for the cliff-fringed plateau of North Cape, which was rounded by the English explorer Richard Chancellor in 1553 during his attempts to find a route through the Northeast Passage.

Things to do

Soak up the views across the Barents Sea from the North Cape, a dramatic plateau that plunges more than 300 metres to the water below. It’s the most northeasterly point in Europe that’s accessible by car and is dominated by a globe-topped stone hall that houses a cinema, an exhibition gallery and the Kompasset restaurant.

Want to access the northernmost point on the European continent? Follow the nine-kilometre-long trail that leads to Knivskjellodden, which is marked by a pyramid-like structure. The trail leads past several small lakes and through a forested valley before descending to the beach at Knivskjelbukta. On arrival at the Knivskjelodden headland, there are sweeping views across the Barents Sea towards the steep cliffs of the North Cape.

Perched atop the northeast coast of Magerøya island is the Helnes Lighthouse, an early 20th-century landmark rebuilt following its destruction during World War II. Its 10-metre-high whitewashed tower is topped with a light that emits two flashes every 30 seconds and can be accessed along a scenic walking trail from the fishing village of Nordvågen.

Getting around

Honningsvåg Airport is the main aviation gateway to Nordkapp and has flights to Hammerfest, Kirkenes and Tromsø. The North Cape Tunnel connects the mainland to the island of Magerøya and the Hurtigruten cruise ship stops at Honningsvåg. Buses travel throughout the region, although having your own vehicle gives you greater freedom to explore.