Cities
Norway Tromsø Troms Lake

Prestvannet Lake

About

Prestvannet Lake sits at the highest point of Tromsøya, offering a calm, reflective escape shaped by both nature and city life. Once a reservoir, it is now a protected wildlife area where seasonal rhythms define the atmosphere: in summer, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and alive with birdlife, while winter transforms it into a popular spot for skating and quiet walks under the polar night. The circular path around the water is a favourite for locals, providing views of the sky that make it an ideal place to experience the midnight sun or the northern lights. Despite its central location, Prestvannet feels peaceful and close to nature, a place where Tromsø’s urban energy gives way to stillness and open Arctic light.

Tromsø Norway
Prestvannet Lake
Location

Prestvannet Lake is situated west of Tromsø's city center on Tromsøya island, at the highest point amid wooded recreational parks, accessible via the Prestvannet parking area. This man-made gem features a 1.7 km loop trail with bridges and benches, drawing locals for jogging, birdwatching, blueberry picking in autumn, and winter skating under northern lights. Trails lead north 1.5 km through Charlottenlund Recreational Park to Tromsøhallen sports complex with its pool, ice rink, and Nordic center—ideal for active days. Southward, a 3 km path climbs to Mountain Viewpoint for elevated fjord panoramas. The nearby Geophysical Observatory screens real-time aurora activity, enhancing night visits amid minimal light pollution. A 30-50 minute downhill walk or quick bus reaches the vibrant harborfront: Northern Norwegian Art Museum dazzles at Sjøgata 1 with contemporary exhibits in its yellow facade. Tromsø Cathedral's yellow spire graces Kirkegata nearby, paired with Storgata's Mathallen seafood hall and Risø cafés. Polar Museum immerses 1.3 km east by the pier with explorer tales aboard MS Polstjerna, steps from Full Steam Seafarers' Museum.

Arctic University Museum of Norway Arctic University Museum of Norway Museum The Polar Museum The Polar Museum Museum Polaria Polaria Aquarium Northern Norwegian Art Museum Northern Norwegian Art Museum Museum Perspective Museum Perspective Museum Museum Northern Norwegian Science Center Northern Norwegian Science Center Museum Troll Museum Troll Museum Museum MS Polstjerna MS Polstjerna Museum Full Steam Seafarers Museum Full Steam Seafarers Museum Museum Tromsø Center for Contemporary Art Tromsø Center for Contemporary Art Museum Friluftsmuseet i Folkeparken Friluftsmuseet i Folkeparken Museum Hålogaland Teater Hålogaland Teater Theatre Tromsø Cathedral Tromsø Cathedral Cathedral Elverhøy Church Elverhøy Church Church Catholic Church of Our Lady Catholic Church of Our Lady Church Tromsø Bridge Tromsø Bridge Bridge Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden Botanical Garden Kvaløya Kvaløya Island