Above the Arctic Circle, picturesque Harstad, the cultural capital of Northern Norway, is located on the country’s largest island. A major commercial and shipping hub, the port city mixes modern architecture with old, and is alive with festivals in the summer. Historic trading posts, such as Røkenes Farm and Sandtorgholmen Hotel take guests back in time with their centuries old buildings, fantastic culinary experiences and genuine hospitality. Favorite day trips include the 13th-century Trondenes Church and the nearby Heritage Center; or exploring the Grytøy – Bjarkøy – Krøttøy archipelago by bicycle. And for those looking to get away from it all, the surrounding areas offer mountain trails, both gentle and challenging, amid pristine forests and lakes overlooking majestic fjords.