Pæskatun

At Pæskatun, we believe the best way to experience the Arctic is through the stories, traditions, and landscapes that have shaped Alta for generations. As a family-run company, we welcome guests throughout the year to experience the Northern Lights, discover Alta’s world-famous slate heritage, and take part in authentic Arctic adventures. By combining local knowledge, genuine hospitality, and a passion for sharing our home, we create memorable experiences in every season.

From Stone to Tradition – The Story of Alta Slate

Since 1993, we have welcomed tourists, school groups, companies, and visitors to experience how skilled slate workers transform raw Alta slate into the iconic roof tiles using traditional craftsmanship.

For nearly 170 years, the slate industry has been an important part of Alta’s history and identity. What began as small family-run quarries high in the slate mountains has grown into a modern industry recognised around the world. Yet the craftsmanship, traditions, and pride remain the same. Generations of local families have worked in the quarries, and many people in Alta still have roots in the slate mountains. At Pæskatun, we are proud to preserve and share this unique cultural heritage.

Today, Pæskatun welcomes visitors throughout the year to discover Alta’s slate heritage through guided experiences, live demonstrations, and the Alta Slate History Museum. We invite you to experience the history, craftsmanship, and traditions that have shaped Alta for generations.

From Slate Mountains to Arctic Skies – Our Northern Lights Story

For generations, the slate workers of Pæska Mountain have looked up at the Arctic sky while living and working among the mountains. As the working day came to an end and the last tasks were completed, many experienced the spectacular colours and movements of the Northern Lights above the slate quarries. This connection between Alta’s slate heritage and the Arctic sky became part of the inspiration behind Pæskatun’s Northern Lights experiences. Since 2009, we have welcomed guests to experience the Aurora through different Northern Lights adventures.

Today, Pæskatun offers several ways to experience the Northern Lights. Our Northern Lights Safari takes guests out into the Arctic landscape in search of the Aurora, following weather conditions and travelling to areas with the best chances of clear skies. We also

work together with other local tourism operators as experienced Northern Lights guides, sharing our knowledge of the Arctic night and the Aurora.

For groups and private arrangements, we offer Camp Pæska – our Northern Lights camp located at Pæskatun. Here, guests can experience the magic of the Northern Lights from the historic slate mountains, with warm cabins, a heated slate workshop, a traditional Lavvu with a bonfire, Northern Lights presentations, and warm drinks and snacks. The camp can also be tailored with additional Arctic experiences such as Northern Lights dinners, Sami and reindeer experiences, snowshoeing, sledging, and other activities depending on the season.

Try Cross-Country Skiing in Alta – A Beginner-Friendly Arctic Experience

Cross-country skiing is one of Norway’s most beloved winter traditions and a natural part of life in the Arctic. For generations, skis have been used to explore the winter landscape, travel through snow-covered forests, and enjoy the outdoors during the long winter season. Today, we invite you to experience this Norwegian tradition in a relaxed and beginner-friendly way.

No previous skiing experience is required. We provide all the necessary equipment, and our guides will help you find the right size, show you how to put everything on, teach you the basics, and support you throughout the experience. Once you feel comfortable on your skis, we follow easy prepared trails through peaceful forests, surrounded by the Arctic winter landscape.

Along the way, we take a break by the bonfire where you can warm up with hot drinks and snacks while enjoying the calm atmosphere of the outdoors. Whether it is your first time on cross-country skis or you are returning to a beloved winter activity from earlier in life, this experience is a wonderful way to discover one of Norway’s most iconic outdoor traditions.