The Lofoten Islands are an Arctic archipelago in Northern Norway. Venture here for breathtaking natural beauty, unique light conditions, and idyllic villages with rustic fishermen's huts. With all of this and more, it should come as no surprise that the Lofoten archipelago is an inspiration to photographers and artists.
In winter, when daylight hours are short, it's an excellent place for chasing the northern lights. Imagine seeing the aurora from the deck of a coastal cruise or while enjoying a fine dinner of local seafood. Meanwhile, in summer, the midnight sun brings almost endless daylight – perfect for exploring at your leisure.
In this Q&A, find out what Petra and Sindre, two of our Reykjavík-based travel experts, experienced in the Lofoten Islands. Read on to discover their trip highlights and get recommendations for your own adventure.
- Uncover the region's highlights on a Lofoten Islands tour or Norway coastal cruise
What a trip you had! How would you describe Lofoten?
Petra: Beautiful islands with a history that revolves around fish. I would also describe it as having a dramatic landscape, laid back atmosphere, and small villages with mostly red "rorbuer" or fisherman cabins that really take you back in time.
What were some highlights of your recent trip?
Petra: I enjoyed relaxing in a fisherman's cabin with a cup of coffee, and the drive from Svolvær to Reine. I also loved a local café in Henningsvær called Lysstøperiet, where you can get the best Norwegian cinnamon buns that I have ever tried. You can also buy candles that are made on the spot.
Another highlight for me was visiting Nusfjord, Lofoten's oldest fishing village. It's now a living museum.
Sindre: I was impressed by the white sand beaches and dramatic mountain peaks. I've seen more mountains than I can count in my life, but I couldn't get enough! And the local fish was delicious.
Is Lofoten a good destination for the northern lights?
Petra: Yes, if the conditions are right. To see the aurora borealis you'll need darkness, clear skies, solar activity and extreme northern latitude. During the winter months, Lofoten has two of these elements – darkness and a northern latitude. Then we need to cross our fingers for clear skies and solar activity on a northern lights tour.
The northern lights season in Lofoten is from October to mid-April. Even if you don't see the aurora while you're there I'm sure you'll leave with a smile and good memories. Being there is enough – the northern lights are just a big plus to this adventure.
Even if you don't see the aurora while you're there I'm sure you'll leave with a smile and good memories. Being there is enough – the northern lights are just a big plus to this adventure.
What are some outdoor activities to do in Lofoten?
Petra: RIB boat safari, hiking, kayaking, bird watching, horseback riding, biking, skiing, museums, fishing and much more.
Which activity or sight did you like best?
Petra: I love food so I really enjoyed trying local dishes like stockfish. It was also an adventure to spend the night in an old fisherman's cabin. There is a lot of history in these cabins.
What tips would you give to Lofoten visitors?
Petra: I highly recommend renting a car – it's possible to drive here year-round – to visit some small villages on a self-drive tour. Lofoten is a great destination for both action and relaxation so everyone should find something they love. Plus, each season has something special to offer like the northern lights in winter. Or the midnight sun, hiking, and birdwatching in summer.
For stops along the way, I recommend spending the night in places like Svolvær, Henningvær, Nyvågar, Reine or Nusfjord. There are fishermen's cabins and hotels to stay in. And don't leave without trying the local food or soaking up as much nature as you can!
Thanks for the chat, Petra and Sindre!
There’s far more to see and do in the Lofoten Islands and Northern Norway than we can fit into one blog.
The best thing to do is experience it in person! Luckily, Nordic Visitor has plenty of tours in Norway that include time in this jaw-dropping region. Get inspired by these self-drive, cruise, and partially guided tours of the Lofoten Islands.
Have something particular in mind? Get in touch with our Scandinavia-based travel experts at Nordic Visitor for your own personalised itinerary.
