The famous mountain dominated

Have you heard of the famous mountain dome? On the way to Vardø, you drive over the mountain Dom, known for harsh weather conditions in winter, and on a good spring day a lookout point where you can observe hundreds of thousands of seabirds.

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Above Domen in winter

In winter, the Dome can create challenges, especially for locals who depend on being able to commute by car. Here it is the weather that decides and not us humans. It is not unusual for the road to be closed and the buses canceled due to yet another winter storm. But that's what it's like to live so close to nature, you sort of become more at one with the surroundings around you. Vardø is right next to the sea and is therefore extra exposed to harsh weather conditions and lots of wind. This is part of the everyday life of the locals and an exotic experience for those who are travelling. So when the weather is bad, it can be nice to find woolen blankets, cocoa and a good book.

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The verdict in the spring is something else entirely

On a good spring day, the Dome is a lookout point where you can observe hundreds of thousands of seabirds. Here, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration has established a very special rest and viewing building, which allows you to enjoy nature in shelter from the elements. It is not only famous birds that you can experience, but you also have a good view of Norway's widest fjord, the sea, the wildlife and the small town that lies right out in the sea gap - Vardø. The sea area around Vardø, which is world-renowned for its Arctic birdlife. This area attracts bird watchers from far and near who want to experience the unique birds up close and take the perfect photo for the collection.

Legends and folktales

It is not only nature that rules the roost. People have also made the mountain known through good old-fashioned folklore. Vardø is known for witch burnings that took place in the 18th century. A brutal story that you can read more about at the Steilneset memorial site in Vardø. In old folklore, the mountain is also known as the place where witches met Satan.