Hamn i Senja 

- from trading post and fishing village to one of Norway’s most exciting destinations for holidays and conferences

Hamn i Senja has carried the name “Hamn” or “Havn” (also “harbor”) since the early 1600s. In 1881, Hamn became a trading post and fishing village, when merchant Adolf Lund built the buildings considered essential for a recognized Northern Norwegian trading station — including a fishing pier, a store with warehouse, a bakery, a barn, and a courthouse with guest rooms.
A founder of such a business was considered almost a local “king” at the time, and his pets in the 1880s were nothing less than two tame eagles. In the summer of 1869, Eilert Brox discovered nickel ore on his farm in Hamn. The Englishman Henry Hussey Vivian then developed the Senja nickel mine at Hellandsnesset, just beyond Hamn. The operation continued until 1886. During that period, around 650 people lived in Hamn — compared to fewer than 10 today. In 1882, one of the world’s first two hydroelectric power plants was built in Hamn — using technology from none other than Thomas Alva Edison. From 1925 to 1935, Hamn was also one of the largest fish landing stations in Northern Norway.

In 1994, the old buildings were renovated and transformed into an intimate holiday destination with 12 apartments and a small restaurant. Times had changed, and suddenly people came from all over the country — and even the world — to visit the new Hamn. After just one year in the tourism industry, Hamn was named Norway’s Travel Product of the Year for its well-organized activity and experience packages. Later, in September 2005, a fire destroyed the buildings.

The family business, led by Ivar Fredriksen, decided to rebuild — and after nearly three years, Hamn was finally able to reopen its doors to guests with a warm, informal, and maritime atmosphere.

There aren’t many places that can compete with Hamn when it comes to breathtaking natural surroundings — whether for meetings and events or holiday experiences.
We hope you’ll be tempted to visit – Senja is truly worth the trip!
You are most welcome!