Time free zone.

 Sommarøy, also known as “Summer Island” in northern Norway—an enchanting fishing village embraced by pristine white beaches, turquoise waters, and the surreal beauty of Arctic light.

Sommarøy, Norway 

Sommarøy is a small fishing village situated approximately 36 km west of Tromsø in Troms County, Northern Norway. It spans the island of Store Sommarøya and parts of the neighboring Hillesøya and nearby islets, connected to Kvaløya and Hillesøya via scenic bridges .

Covering just 0.41 km², Sommarøy is home to around 304 residents as of 2023, making it a tightly-knit community surrounded by dramatic landscapes . Its charm lies in its ocean-moderated subarctic climate—with mild temperatures even above the Arctic Circle—pristine beaches, and a striking view of islands like Håja rising sharply from the sea .

Fishing remains Sommarøy’s backbone, with a vibrant local fleet and associated fish-processing operations . Tourism has blossomed alongside, with offerings including a local hotel, cozy cabins, a small museum, and a church whose design echoes the silhouette of Håja .

Daylight Extremes & the "Time-Free" Myth

From May 18 to July 26, Sommarøy experiences 69 consecutive days of midnight sun—unbroken daylight—followed by long polar nights from November to January . In 2019, a publicity campaign famously claimed that the residents wished to eliminate clocks and civil time altogether—declaring Sommarøy the world’s first "time-free zone." Though earnest in tone, it was later revealed to be a clever PR effort by Innovation Norway aimed at drawing global attention to the island’s extraordinary conditions 

Sommarøy offers immersive Arctic experiences—kayaking under the midnight sun, wildlife and RIB boat tours, hiking (like the trail up Ørnfløya), and breathtaking beach strolls on coral-sand shores . Travelers can also unwind in saunas and hot tubs with sweeping ocean views . Reviewers share that even in high season, the island retains a tranquil, almost otherworldly calm .

Why Sommarøy Stands Out

1. Ethereal Light: The interplay of midnight sun and polar night gives your sense of time a brand-new meaning.

2. Raw Beauty in Solitude: Untouched beaches and crystal-clear water envelop a peaceful, nature-first lifestyle.

3. Authentic Community: A resilient fishing community with thoughtful tourism—less commercial, more character.

4. A Symbol of Time No More: The "time-free island" myth—though orchestrated—reflects a deeper truth about Sommarøy’s surreal relationship with time and light.

Whether as a poetic metaphor or a literal campaign gambit, Sommarøy has captured imaginations worldwide—and invites travelers to experience a place where time itself seems to lose its grip.