The Arctic Train - Ofoten Line

Arctic Train travels through a desolate, wild and beautiful landscape on Norway’s most northerly railway. The 43-kilometer long Ofot line stretches from Narvik in Nordland towards the Swedish border.
From the ice-blue fjord in Narvik to the high mountains, there are several historical events that form a dramatic backdrop for the experience.

Note:This trip only covers the journey between Narvik and the Swedish bordertown Bjørnefjell.

An unforgettable journey

With towering mountains, dramatic waterfalls and fantastic views of the fjord, this journey goes through a beautiful and wild Arctic landscape. The train makes several stops along the way to ensure you get the most out of the trip, and with the help of the "Voice of Norway" app you can listen to the history of the places you pass on the journey.

Ofotbanen

The construction of the Ofotbanen started at the end of the 19th century and stretched a couple of years into the next century. The railway was built to ensure access to an ice-free export port for the huge iron ore deposits from northern Sweden. Itinerant workers, so-called "rallers" sought their fortune in what was referred to as Europe's "Klondyke", and at most over 5,000 people were involved in the construction of the track.

A rich and dramatic history

As an export route for Europe's largest and most important iron ore deposits, the route was particularly important to control during the Second World War. Therefore, the myth of warfare during the Battle of Narvik took place in the immediate vicinity of the railway. The history connected with the development of the railway, together with the acts of war in 1940, forms a dramatic backdrop for the train journey.

Facts Ofoten Line

• The total length of the Ofoten Line: From Narvik harbour to Riksgränsen: 43 (42.66) km
• The Arctic Train Journey: From Narvik harbour to Bjørnefjell: 36.72 km
• Number of stops for passengers during this route:  5
• Number of tunnels on this route: 20
• Official opening of the Ofoten Line: 14 July 1903
• Total tonnage of goods transported on the Ofoten Line annually: 23 million tons

Timetable Arctic Train