An Introduction to Norway's Lofoten Islands

An arctic archipelago situated off the northwest coast of Norway, the Lofoten Islands are like something out of a dream. By day, rugged, snowcapped mountaintops reach for a cloud-dotted sky while by night, that same sky transforms into a canvas painted with the dreamy glow of the fantastic aurora borealis reflecting pastel hues of blue, green and purple. Creatures like elk, arctic foxes and polar bears roam the land while majestic eagles and Northeast Arctic cod rule the sky and the sea respectively. To many, the Lofoten Islands provide the perfect balance of vast and beautiful wilderness paired with the perks of modern civilization, a backdrop of stilted-red fisheries and colorful homes present a picture-perfect scene for the adventurous jet setter.

Where to Stay     

From cabins and campsites to hotels and apartments, travelers have plenty of choices as to where to lay their heads on the Lofoten Islands. Throughout the destination, visitors will notice brightly colored buildings along the water’s edge. Referred to as “the rorbu”, travelers might be surprised to find that these unique structures are refurbished authentic fishermen’s cabins where they can spend the night.

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Or, for something more traditional, vacationers will find a variety of hotels and hostels to choose from throughout the islands. Many of which are in prime locations with incredible scenery and food, fun and entertainment in close proximity.  

What to Do

Whether they visit in the winter or the summer, visitors can enjoy a variety of exciting activities on the Lofoten Islands.

Outdoor and Animal Adventures

For active travelers, the Lofoten Islands are a popular spot for kayaking, surfing, fishing and skiing. Or, for those looking to get in touch with their wild side, the islands offer an abundance of wildlife tours where vacationers might encounter birds, whales, seals and more. The region also boasts several once-in-a-lifetime experiences like dog sledding and sea safaris.

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Of course, rolling hills and ice-covered mountains make the Lofoten Islands a picturesque escape for any outdoor enthusiast. Natural phenomena like the midnight sun and the aurora borealis are two incredible experiences that travelers can have on the islands depending on the time of their visit. For year-round fun, vacationers won’t want to miss a voyage to Trollfjord, an area only accessible by boat with impressive glacier-covered peaks reaching up to 3,600 ft and stunning waterfalls. Also on the islands is Lofotodden National Park, Norway’s newest national park that’s famous for its varying landscapes and ecosystems. 

Arts and Culture

Dating back to the beginning of the Viking Age, the Lofoten Islands have a fascinating history and rich culture. Travelers hoping to experience a taste of ancient Nordic life won’t want to miss a visit to the Lofotr Viking Museum which includes a unique reconstruction of the largest Viking longhouse to date. Inside, visitors can explore fully furnished replicas of several rooms including living quarters, a feasting hall and the former animal stable.

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Other museums of note include The Lofoten Museum where visitors will learn about the history of the Lofoten fisheries, Vestvågøy Museum for a look at life and farming in the 19th century and The Blacksmith of Sund where travelers can watch modern-day Blacksmiths forge new creations.

On the art scene, the Lofoten Islands have a variety of galleries and locally made crafts for travelers to peruse. Vacationers can watch glassblowers work their magic at Loften Glass, enjoy hand-crafted pottery at Engelskmannsbrygga and explore several different art galleries such as Kaviar Factory, Gallery 2, Gallery Espolin, Gallery Eva Harr, Gallery Lofoten and more.   

Food and Drink

While it might not be the first place that comes to mind when travelers picture a foodie destination, Visit Lofoten, the Lofoten Islands’ tourism website, says that it should be. “Between our waves and peaks, flavors of another world are being produced. The tastes of Lofoten” reads the Visit Lofoten website. From fresh fish and mountainside lamb to creamy cheeses and hand-crafted ice creams, the food in Lofoten boasts robust flavors and a sense of pride.

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Visit Lofoten recommends travelers check out restaurants like Holmen Lofoten, Børsen Spiseri, Lofoten Seafood Restaurant and Paleo Arctic for a bite to eat. Alternatively, those looking for something a bit more immersive might opt for a tour where they can make their own cheese at a local goat farm or explore a live stockfish fish farm.

Speaking of goat farms, the Lofoten Islands are home to a variety of farms, some of which travelers can visit to interact with the animals or purchase farm-made goods like cheeses, meats, sausages, herbal products and more. A few farms for visitors to consider are Lofoten Gårdsysteri Farmshop and Farmcafe and Livland Farm. 

Planning Their Trip

Travel advisors looking for resources to help their travelers experience this island getaway might consider working with Up Norway, a luxury travel curator that works with advisors to help plan clients’ perfect trips.

For 2023, Up Norway created a Steigen and Lofoten Islands itinerary designed to immerse travelers in this unique destination and to teach them about important topics like history, architecture, art and design.

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“From Bodø to Manshausen, and then on to the northern Lofoten Islands, Up Norway’s seamless journeys inspire and enrich travelers by showcasing Nordic living through encounters with Norwegian nature and epic adventures. Whether travelers are looking for adrenaline-pumping activities such as arctic surfing or exploring international art collections in Norway’s creative region, the journey has options for all specialties,” wrote Up Norway in a February 2023 press release.

Here are a few trip highlights according to the press release:

• Seaside cabin base in Manshausen where travelers can enjoy unobstructed views and explore the frontier where the sea and mountains meet.
• Professional guided exploration of the surrounding mountains or kayaking in crystal clear waters.
• Fishing trip with MS Symra, a traditional 49-foot fishing cutter with a history dating back to 1917.
• Private driver and guide to travel through the Scenic Route Lofoten to the village of Ballstad.
• Exploration of Lofoten on foot with a professional mountain guide.
• Opportunity to work with a professional photographer to scout the best locations for capturing the Northern Lights.
• An arctic surfing lesson with a surf instructor.
• Opportunity to explore handicrafts such as glassworks, wool coloring and knitting, sausage and cheese-making, ceramics or getting immersed in impressive local and international art collections.
• Capability to extend stay for another 48 hours on HMS Gåsstein, a lush vessel with all amenities needed for a relaxed sea voyage at the spectacular coast of Lofoten.
• Six nights accommodations; two in a Manshausen sea cabin with full board, one in an ocean-facing room at Thon Hotel Svolvær with breakfast, three in a Hillside Lodge or Seaside Rorbu at Hattvika Lodge incl. breakfasts, lunches and two dinners (three- and five-course tasting menus).

Pricing for the trip starts at $4,271, and advisors can learn more by visiting Up Norway’s website.