Do you want to visit the hourglass of the universe?
Massive forces are in play between the two fjords Saltenfjorden and Skjerstadfjorden, outside the city of Bodø in Northern Norway.
When the tide turns and flows in and out between the fjords, spectacular maelstroms are created in Saltstraumen.
Take your time and listen. You can hear the sound of the extreme forces of nature, as 400 million cubic meters of water cross the narrow strait.
There’s a lot of cool (and safe) ways to experience the maelstrom.
Here’s what not to miss while visiting the world’s strongest tidal current.
Incredible forces of nature
Four times a day, a huge volume of water forces its way through the 150-metre narrow strait in Saltstraumen, making enormous whirlpools that dance between the fjords. We are talking 400 million cubic metres of seawater moving at an impressive 13 kilometres per hour on average – far more when the current is at its strongest. No wonder why people from all around the world travel to Northern Norway to experience the world-famous nature phenomena.
The ideal time to visit is around new moon or full moon, and up to three days after, when the tidal current is at its strongest. The difference between high and low tide can then be as much as three metres – a really impressive sight worth seeing.
The current has fascinated people for many years, and still does! In 2016, Norwegian broadcaster NRK showed a live-stream of the maelstrom, minute-by-minute, which enchanted a million Norwegians sitting in front of their TVs.
How to get the best view
Go for a walk on Saltstraumen bridge, which passes right above the watery chaos. There are footpaths on both sides of the bridge, making it easy to look straight down into the massive currents pressing underneath. Visiting in winter? Remember to wear warm clothes! It can get windy on the bridge.
If you want to get a real close up of the stream, check out one of the many viewpoints along the shoreline. Some paths along the stream are also accessible by wheelchair. You can feel (and hear) the incredible powers, as the water splashes against the coastline nearby. Just remember to keep safe, and don’t get too close to the water – the current is no joke.
Also, keep in mind that the maelstrom shifts directions. When the tide comes in from the west, you can get the best views from the east side of the bridge, while you should be on the west side when the tide recedes.
(Article attributed: VisitNorway.com)
