Saltstraumen is one of the world's strongest tidal currents. Every six hours, enormous volumes of water force through a narrow strait at high speed, creating massive whirlpools. The bridge over the strait gives you a direct view down into the chaos.
The intensity depends on two things: direction and moon phase. It is most spectacular when the tide flows inward and during full and new moon. The strongest current happens halfway between low and high tide. The peak time shifts by about one hour each day, so you need to check a tide table to know when to go. The tourist office in Bodø publishes one.
The bridge itself is nothing special. What is underneath it is. On a strong tide day, the power of the water is genuinely impressive. On a weak day, you might wonder what the fuss is about. Timing is everything.
Saltstraumen is about 30 minutes south of Bodø, right where Road 17 ends. It is the last major sight on the Kystriksveien before you reach the town.
The intensity depends on two things: direction and moon phase. It is most spectacular when the tide flows inward and during full and new moon. The strongest current happens halfway between low and high tide. The peak time shifts by about one hour each day, so you need to check a tide table to know when to go. The tourist office in Bodø publishes one.
The bridge itself is nothing special. What is underneath it is. On a strong tide day, the power of the water is genuinely impressive. On a weak day, you might wonder what the fuss is about. Timing is everything.
Saltstraumen is about 30 minutes south of Bodø, right where Road 17 ends. It is the last major sight on the Kystriksveien before you reach the town.