Ersfjordstranda

Ersfjordstranda is a broad crescent of pale golden sand at the head of a fjord on Senja's Atlantic side, enclosed by granite peaks that rise steeply on three sides, and it is the most photographed beach on the island. It is part of the Senja national scenic route, and the rest area built there has become almost as well known as the beach itself: a set of concrete and timber structures by the architects Code, including a much-published toilet building with a full-height window facing the sea, which won design awards and a certain amount of ridicule. There is a car park, tables and a path onto the sand. The water is Arctic and the beach exposed to weather off the open sea.

The landscape

• The golden crescent - a wide sand beach at the head of the fjord.
• The granite ring - steep peaks enclosing the bay on three sides.
• The scenic route rest stop - award-winning concrete and timber structures.
• The sea-facing window - the much-photographed toilet building.

When to go

June to August for the midnight sun and warmest conditions; September to March for aurora, with easy road access. The beach is exposed and can be unpleasant in wind at any time of year.

What to expect

The water is genuinely Arctic and swimming is a brief plunge. Facilities are the rest stop only, with no shop or cafe. Parking fills in summer and camper vans crowd the area, which has led to restrictions.

Nearby

Segla and Fjordgard are along the coast; Tungeneset and the Senja scenic route continue north.