Prestvannet Lake
Tromso, Norway, 9011
One of the highest points on the island of Tromso (Tromsoya) happens to be this small lake, a former reservoir near the center of Tromso town. Locals walk their dogs around the track and nature trails ringing the body of water, where travelers sometimes stop to view the northern lights. In the winter, the frozen-over pond becomes an ice-skating rink.
The basics
The lake lies just over one mile (1.6 kilometers) from the center of Tromso and has minimal light pollution—so it’s not only easy to reach, but a hot spot for northern lights tours aiming to stay within city limits. A scenic area with protected bird-nesting areas, it's also a hiking and e-bike tour destination when the weather is dry enough for getting outdoors. The roughly 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) loop trail around the lake takes about 30 minutes to complete.
Things to know before you go
The lake is free and open to the public.
Bird-watchers rejoice! Bring binoculars to spot red-throated divers.
The trails around the lake turn into skiing paths in the winter.
Leashed dogs allowed on the trails.
How to get there
Prestvannet lies about 10 minutes by car from the center of Tromso—when you’ve reached the outskirts of town, take the Th Øiens gate and Haakon VIIs gate to the end of Forhapningen. Parking is available on the north and west side of the lake. If you’re taking the bus, lines #28 and #40 stop on Langnesvegen Street on the west side of the lake.
When to get there
The lake is a year-round destination, but the seasons should be top of mind when planning a visit. For birding, visit after the ice thaws from May onward. You have the greatest chances of spotting the northern lights between September and April. Spring, summer, and fall are best for hiking, while in the winter you’ll find skiing and ice skating.
Ice skating on Prestvannet Lake
Prestvannet Lake (which has more the feel of a pond) usually freezes over completely in the heart of winter, making it an ideal skating destination a stone’s throw from central Tromso. Keep in mind that there’s no rental shop, so your best bet is to rent skates in town, take a bus to the lake, and glide around the ice for free before bussing back.
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