Lofoten Islands in Summer: The Ultimate Guide + 14 Best Things To Do
Are you considering a trip to the Lofoten Islands but wondering if the long journey to the Arctic is truly worth it? After spending a week exploring this remote Norwegian archipelago, I can truthfully answer the question many ask: Yes, Lofoten is absolutely worth visiting in the summer.
While often famous as a winter destination for the Northern Lights, the Lofoten Islands in summer offer something even more rare—the Midnight Sun, turquoise Arctic waters, and mountain peaks perfect for hiking. Located in the far northwest of Norway, above the Arctic Circle, these islands are a world-class destination for spectacular road trips, white-sand beaches, and traditional red fishing villages such as Reine and Å.
Lofoten holidays are gaining popularity among travellers as an emerging summer destination for those who love discovering remote, wild locations and enjoy spectacular road trips. In this guide, I’ll share my first-hand experience and 14 reasons why you should add this remote destination in Norway to your summer bucket list.
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2026 Lofoten Summer Trip - Quick Guide
| Best Time To Visit | June to August (for 24-hour daylight) |
| Midnight Sun Dates | Approx. May 28th – July 14th |
| Must-See Spots | Reine, Hamnøy, Nusfjord, and Henningsvær |
| Top Activity | Hiking Reinebringen & Kayaking Reinefjorden |
| Transport Tip | Book the Bodø-Moskenes ferry 2+ months in advance |
Is Lofoten worth visiting in summer?
When I first told people I was planning a holiday to the Lofoten Islands, the response was almost always the same: "Where is Lofoten, and what on earth is there to do there?"
While this Arctic archipelago is world-renowned as a winter wonderland for chasing the Northern Lights, I quickly discovered that the summer months are when the islands truly come alive. Imagine jagged mountain peaks reflecting in crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches that look like the Caribbean (until you touch the water!), and a sun that quite literally never sets.
My July trip was fabulous. I traded the Aurora Borealis for the Midnight Sun, experiencing everything from peaceful coastal walks to a staggering heatwave where temperatures soared to a "blistering" 30°C—a rare and sobering reminder of our changing climate.
Whether you are looking to hike iconic ridges or soak in the charm of red fishing villages like Reine of Nusfjord, it will become clear by the end of this post that summer isn't just a good time to visit Lofoten—it’s the absolute best time.
How to Get to the Lofoten Islands: Your Travel Options
The Lofoten Islands are remote, which is part of their appeal, but getting there requires some planning. Depending on your budget and how much time you have, here are the three best ways to reach the archipelago this summer.
1. The Most Popular Route: Fly to Bodø & Take the Ferry
Most travellers fly from Oslo (OSL) to Bodø (BOO). From Bodø, you have two main options to cross the water:
The Car Ferry (Bodø to Moskenes): This is the classic way to arrive. The crossing takes about 3.5 hours and offers incredible views as the "Lofoten Wall" of mountains grows larger on the horizon.
| Angie's Top Tip: If you are bringing a rental car, book your ferry spot well in advance for summer travel. If you are a foot passenger, the ferry is actually free (as of 2026)! |
The Express Boat (Bodø to Svolvær): A faster, passenger-only boat that takes you directly into the heart of Svolvær.
2. The Fastest Route: Fly Directly into Lofoten
If you want to maximise your time, you can skip the ferry and fly directly to the islands.
Svolvær (SVJ) or Leknes (LKN): These are small, regional airports. You’ll usually take a short, scenic flight with Widerøe from Bodø.
Harstad/Narvik (EVE): This is a larger airport on the mainland. It’s often cheaper to fly here, but keep in mind it’s a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Evenes to Svolvær.
3. The Scenic Road Trip: Drive the E10, One of the World's Most Beautiful Road Trips
If you are already exploring Northern Norway (perhaps coming from Tromsø or Senja), you can rent a car and drive directly to the islands via the E10, also known as the 'Lofast' road. This route uses a series of bridges and tunnels, so no ferry is required to reach the main islands from the north.
This was the option that I took. I started in Tromso, drove to Senja Island for one night and then continued to Lofoten.
At the end of my Lofoten trip, I took a flight from Harstad/Narvik Airport to Oslo. Finishing my trip in Norway's capital city was a good decision, as there are many great things to do in Oslo, from island-hopping to exploring the bohemian parts of the city and visiting museums.
| You can read exactly how to plan a road trip in my post, Tromso to Lofoten Road Trip Itinerary Guide. |
Best Accommodation in the Lofoten Islands
Accommodations in Lofoten can range from the popular traditional rorbuer (fishing cabin) to luxury hotels and privately run guest houses.
In summer, the most popular places to stay in Lofoten get booked quickly, so book your accommodation in advance and don't leave it to chance, especially if you want to stay in a particular area.
Nusfjord Arctic Resort is the premier place to stay in Lofoten. It is the most historic fishing village in the Lofoten archipelago and is stunning. I stayed here for three nights in July, but had to book up months in advance to secure my cabin. I am glad I did, as it was excellent.
| You can read about my experience staying at a rorbuer at Nusfjord Arctic Resort. |
Reine is another popular fishing village, probably the one you are most familiar with. Images of the red-and-white rorbuers in the summer months are used in promotional materials for the islands.
The fishing village of Å is the last place to stay at the foot of the Lofoten islands. Book a stay in a stilted rorbuer by the harbour.
Lofoten Summer Packing List: The “Midnight Sun” Essentials
Packing for Northern Norway in the summer is all about preparing for variable weather and constant light. Here is what you shouldn’t leave home without:
Premium Eye Mask: This is non-negotiable! Even with blackout curtains, the 24-hour Arctic light is persistent. A high-quality, contoured eye mask will ensure you actually get some sleep.
Sturdy Hiking Boots: If you plan on hiking the famous Reinebringen Trail, you’ll need good ankle support for the rocky terrain.
Sunscreen & Polarised Sunglasses: The sun is up 24/7, and the reflection off the fjords can be intense. Protect your eyes and skin, even if it feels cool.
Portable Power Bank: Between GPS for road trips and taking hundreds of photos of the fishermen's cabins, your battery will drain faster than usual.
Swimwear: For that “exhilarating” dip at Haukland Beach (if you are experienced in cold water swimming!)
Witness the Iconic Landscapes of the Lofoten Archipelago
One of the main reasons we wanted to experience a Lofoten road trip in summer was to see the stunning views of the snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes and traditional fishing villages scattered throughout the islands. And of course, we just had to experience a stay in a traditional fisherman's rorbu on stilts!
Our trip to the Lofoten islands ticked all the boxes and exceeded our expectations - there really is nowhere quite like this magnificent Norwegian peninsula.
As you drive through the Lofoten Islands, there are photo opportunities at every turn. With plenty of official viewpoints to stop at, you will soon be capturing many images (like the one below) on your camera or phone!
Discover the charming fishing villages
One of the most popular reasons to visit Lofoten in summer is to see the traditional fishing villages. Undoubtedly, these villages will feature heavily on any Lofoten Islands itinerary.
The Lofoten fishing huts are easily recognisable by their red or yellow wooden facades, many on stilts, and offer unique accommodation in the Lofoten Islands.
These charming Lofoten fishing villages attract many tourists and give a snapshot of life in this remote part of the world.
The most visited fishing villages in the Lofoten islands are:
Å - the fisherman's village with one initial, and the last place to stop on Lofoten
Reine - Norway's most photographed fishing village.
Henningsvaer - The "Venice of the North" and its famous football field.
Nusfjord - Norway's best preserved historic fishing village with traditional rorbuers.
We loved wandering around these traditional Norwegian coastal destinations, each with its own unique charm and identity.
Make sure to visit the cute artisan village stores to shop local for unique Norwegian souvenirs. The cafes and restaurants in each location serve great coffee and local Norwegian dishes; you won't be disappointed.
Experience the Midnight Sun
Nothing quite prepares you for the midnight sun, which occurs in Arctic locations.
The sun never sets between the middle of May and the end of July. This means you will experience 24 hours of daylight. The advantage of the sky never going dark is that you can enjoy outdoor activities well into the early hours.
We went for a midnight hike and saw people out and about well after that time!
It's an extraordinary phenomenon that we also experienced in Tromso. The only disadvantage is that if you stay somewhere without blackout curtains, it may be hard to sleep, but then again, who wants to sleep in this fantastic location?
| Angie's Top Tip: Make sure you bring an eye mask to sleep in summer in the Lofoten islands! |
Stay in a Traditional Rorbu: Historic Fisherman Cabins
One of our favourite things to do in Lofoten was to stay in a traditional fishing rorbu.
We stayed at Nusfjord Arctic Resort for four nights. We enjoyed village activities (including an outdoor hot tub and sauna) while using Nusfjord to visit the surrounding Lofoten attractions.
A rorbu is a wooden fisherman's hut, usually painted in red or yellow, found in small fishing settlements around the Lofoten Islands. Many of the original rorbuer are built on stilts above the water, while newer replacements are on solid ground.
When planning where to stay in Lofoten, rorbuer accommodation is the perfect way to experience a traditional fishing village with modern, luxurious comforts.
Rorbuers are usually situated in the remotest coastal locations in Lofoten and are amongst the world's most unique places to stay.
Relax on Arctic Beaches: Haukland, Ramberg, and Beyond
You are in for one mighty shock when you set eyes on the beautiful Lofoten beaches and would be forgiven for thinking you were in the Caribbean!
I must admit that even in summer, the water temperatures are cold, but with golden sand and mighty mountains surrounding them, they are among the most beautiful places in Lofoten to spend the day.
In summer, the Lofoten beaches come alive, with visitors enjoying beach games, sunbathing, BBQs, and camping. In Norway, wild camping is allowed, so you can pitch up and wake to the sound and sight of the turquoise water gently lapping the sandy beach just metres from your tent or camper van!
And don't forget that in summer, the midnight sun means enjoying yourself on the beach all day and all night if you wish, as the sun never sets!
If you still can't believe there are such stunning beaches in Lofoten, look at these beaches that we visited.
| Angie's Top Tip: Surfers wanting to experience surfing in the Arctic Circle should head to Unstad Beach in Lofoten for some of the best breaks in Norway. |
Hike the Wild Lofoten Landscape: Scenic Trails for Every Level
Get back to Mother Nature by hiking in Lofoten. Many trails wind through the islands.
While our trip focused on exploring villages and driving through the landscape, no guide to the Lofoten Islands is complete without mentioning the two most famous peaks. While I didn't tackle these myself this time around, they are the "Big Two" for a reason. If you have the fitness and the weather on your side, here is what you need to know:
1. Reinebringen: The "Stairway to Heaven"
The most iconic hike in Lofoten is the 1km uphill Reinebringen Trail, starting at the road outside the Ramsvik tunnel.
If you’ve seen a photo of Lofoten on Instagram, it was likely taken from the top of Reinebringen. This hike offers the quintessential view of the red rorbuer cabins of Reine and the jagged peaks of the Reinefjord.
- The Challenge: Don't let the short distance (approx. 2km round trip) fool you. This is essentially a giant outdoor "Stairmaster." Between 2016 and 2021, Nepalese Sherpas built nearly 2,000 stone steps to improve safety and prevent erosion.
- The Reward: A panoramic view that feels like looking down at a toy village set against the Arctic Ocean.
- Need to Know: It is incredibly steep. Even with the stairs, it can be demanding on the knees. Most hikers recommend avoiding it in the rain as the summit ridge remains a muddy, narrow dirt path that can be very slippery.
2. Ryten: For the "Mini-Trolltunga" Photo
While Reinebringen looks down on villages, Ryten looks down on the wild, turquoise waters of Kvalvika Beach. This hike is often considered more "scenic" throughout the walk rather than just at the top.
- The Challenge: This is a more gradual, moderate climb compared to the vertical stairs of Reinebringen (approx. 7–8km round trip). It can be quite boggy, so waterproof hiking boots are a must even in summer.
- The Reward: You’ll find the famous "photographer’s ledge" here—a rock that juts out over the beach. If you angle the camera right, it looks like you’re hanging over a massive drop (though there is actually a safe ledge just below it!).
- Need to Know: This area is part of a National Park, so drones are strictly prohibited. It’s a favourite for midnight sun hikers because the summit faces west, catching the golden light perfectly.
Haukland to Uttakleiv: The scenic coastal ridge
A bonus hike to do is the Haukland to Uttakleiv coastal ridge. Here's what you need to know:
If you prefer sweeping ocean vistas over vertical climbs, this is arguably the most beautiful coastal walk in the archipelago. It connects two of Lofoten's most famous beaches via the Mannen Ridge, offering a perfect mix of white sands and rugged mountain backdrops.
- The Challenge: This is a more accessible, relaxing route than the previous two hikes, taking around 2 hours to complete. It is the perfect choice for a day when you want to soak in the scenery without the "thigh-burn" of thousands of stone steps.
- The Reward: You get a "two-for-one" beach experience. Haukland Beach consistently tops the list of Norway's most beautiful beaches, while Uttakleiv is widely considered the most romantic—keep an eye out for the giant heart made of stones on the grass!
- Need to Know: This walk isn't just about the views; it's an educational experience. At Uttakleiv Beach, you’ll find interactive QR codes you can scan to learn more about the area's fascinating local history and landscape.
Explore Svolvaer - the Vibrant Capital of the Lofoten Islands
Svolvaer is the capital of Lofoten and a busy port with hotels, restaurants, and numerous boat tours departing from its harbour.
I'm not going to sugarcoat the fact that Svolvaer was my least favourite place in Lofoten. After driving through some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet to get here, it was a bit of a letdown, with its grey commercial buildings and run-down vibe.
This gateway to the Lofoten Islands appears to be more of a commercial hub for the many boat trips and cruise liners that use it as a base than the picturesque Lofoten location we were expecting.
That said, the hotel we stayed at for one night, Thon Hotel Lofoten, was modern, with lovely rooms and a popular restaurant, Paleo Arctic, which seemed to draw many guests for its Nordic delicacies.
A wander around Svolvaer didn't uncover anything exceptional; however, we found good coffee and light bites at BRENT. Of course, many exciting trips leave from Svolvaer, including sea eagle spotting, evening kayaking, photography cruises and Lofoten fjord trips.
Explore the historic Nusfjord Arctic Resort
Whether or not you stay at Nusfjord Arctic Resort, you can still experience it as a day visitor.
Nestled in a small cove, this historic fishing village is Lofoten's oldest and best preserved. It is the epitome of everything you could imagine a Norwegian fishing village to be like.
Wander the boardwalk past the red stilted rorbuer and explore the historic buildings. They detail the history of Nusfjord and its role as a central production hub for cod liver oil.
Climb the small rock in the centre of Nusfjord and gaze out to the horizon. After that, visit the bakery or village shop for coffee and waffles.
The resort's fine-dining restaurant, Karolina, serves delicious local dishes, and Oriana Pizza Cafe is a cosy place to grab a quick bite.
Visit the Lofotr Viking Museum
No trip to northern Norway would be complete without learning more about the Vikings. Therefore, the Lofotr Viking Museum is a must-visit attraction in Lofoten.
Don't miss the star of the show at the museum. It's a reconstruction of the 272-foot-long chieftain's longhouse, the largest Viking building ever found.
Visitors can also participate in an interactive exhibition and see artefacts discovered during excavations. For a fun experience, sail around the fjord on a reconstructed Viking longship and try some free Viking activities. I have to say I was pretty good at axe-throwing!
| Angie's Top Tip: Try the traditional Viking stew and a glass of mead, served in the longhouse; they are delicious! |
Experience Lofoten's Outdoor Activities
Lofoten is the top destination for fantastic Norwegian outdoor experiences. You can cruise the crystal clear waters, kayak, surf, and explore the numerous hiking trails.
There are so many summer activities in Lofoten that you certainly won't run out of options.
Play Golf in Lofoten
If you want to play a round of golf in a spectacular location, the Lofoten Links Golf Course is perfect. With ocean views, this is one of Norway's best golf courses and attracts both Norwegians and international golfers.
Lofoten Links Lodges offers reasonable accommodation for both golfers and road-trippers. I stayed one night as a tourist rather than a golfer and loved the rugged vibe of the area. Hof Beach is nearby with its white sand and shallow waters.
Lofoten Links is glorious in summer, and in winter, it is one of the best places to stay to see the Aurora Borealis. It's even classed as a Northern Lights Base Camp. They even offer alerts to wake you up if the lights appear at some ungodly time of night!
Taste the Arctic: Fresh Stockfish and Traditional Seasonal Cuisine
One thing you can be sure of in the Lofoten islands is that seafood will be very fresh and tasty.
With fishing villages around every corner, the Norwegian cuisine is based mainly on fish. The Lofoten Islands have been among the world's top cod exporters for over 1,000 years.
Try Lofoten stockfish, a dried cod delicacy available throughout the islands.
Lamb dishes also appear on many menus, although I only saw a few sheep during my stay, so I am unsure where they are farmed in Lofoten.
One of the must-visit seafood spots in Lofoten is Anita's Seafood Shop and Bar in Sakrisoy. Fish burgers and soup are popular among tourists, with fresh salmon, prawn, and lobster dishes on the menu.
Anita also sells local goodies from seaweed chocolate (don't judge!) to cod and reindeer jerky and other Norwegian specialities.
Find Anita's Seafood at Sakrisøya, 8390 Reine, Norway
See Norwegian wildflowers
It was a pleasant surprise to see an abundance of beautiful wildflowers growing in a country blanketed in snow for most of the year,
My favourites were the pink and purple lupins. They grow everywhere and provide a striking contrast to the black granite mountains and the vivid green landscape.
The fluffy cotton plants are a variety I hadn't seen before and are quite charming.
Wild Camping in Norway: Waking Up to Turquoise Waters
Imagine driving through breathtaking scenery on a Lofoten road trip and pulling up in the shadow of one of the mighty Lofoten mountains. Or how about camping for the night on the sunny shores of a Lofoten beach?
You can do just that because wild camping is permitted in Norway! This gives you the freedom of the road and is ideal if you have a camper van (most visitors bring one) or a tent to pitch.
Make sure to camp only in public areas, not on private land. Respect the environment by taking home rubbish, etc, then sit back and enjoy the scenery - you will be the envy of many other travellers!
Follow the rules for wild camping
Wild camping in Norway is permitted. However, over the past few years, a few areas have been removed from the wild camping map due to overcrowding and campers' lack of respect for the land and local people.
Please refer to the advice and restrictions given on the Visit Lofoten website.
Lofoten Summer FAQ
Is Lofoten expensive to visit in summer?
Yes, Norway is famously expensive, and Lofoten is no exception—especially in peak summer. You can expect to pay around 1,500–2,000 NOK ($140–$185) per day for a mid-range budget.
- Angie's Tip to Save Money: Book your Lofoten accommodation (especially the traditional rorbuer) at least 4-6 months in advance. You can also significantly cut costs by shopping at local supermarkets like Rema 1000 or Coop and making use of Norway’s "Allemannsretten" (the right to roam) for wild camping.
Can you swim in the Lofoten Islands?
You certainly can, but be prepared for a "refreshing" experience! Despite the Caribbean-like turquoise waters and white sands, the sea temperature in summer typically ranges from 11°C to 15°C (52°F–59°F). While locals and brave tourists often take a quick "Arctic dip" at beaches like Haukland or Ramberg, most people prefer a short swim followed by a warm fire or a sauna session. If you plan on staying in the water for a long time, a wetsuit is highly recommended.
Do I need a car for Lofoten?
While there is a public bus system (the Reis app is a must-download), I highly recommend renting a car to see the best of the islands. Public transport is designed around local school and work schedules, making many of the best trailheads for hikes like Ryten or remote beaches like Uttakleiv difficult to reach without your own wheels.
| Angie's Top Tip: If you want to save on rental costs, consider flying into Bodø and renting a car there before taking the ferry across to Moskenes. Just remember to book your ferry spot in advance! |
Final Thoughts: Is a Summer Trip to Lofoten for You?
The Lofoten Islands are more than just a destination; they are a sensory experience that stays with you long after the Midnight Sun has set. Whether you are standing on top of a mountain ridge, kayaking through a silent fjord, or sharing a cinnamon bun in a red fishing village, summer in Lofoten is truly an Arctic fairy tale come to life.
If you love wild landscapes, unpredictable adventures, and the freedom of the open road, then yes—Lofoten is worth the journey.
Plan Your Northern Norway Adventure
Don't stop at Lofoten! If you're planning a larger Norwegian road trip, be sure to check out my other guides to the region:
The Ultimate Guide to Tromsø: Perfect for combining with your Lofoten trip.
Senja: Norway’s Fairy Tale Island: A quieter, equally stunning alternative just north of the archipelago.
Need help planning your next holiday?
Please check out my curated Travel Resources Guide for the exact booking platforms, transport tools, and eSIMs I use on my travels.
Please Pin for Future Travel to Norway
HEADING TO NORWAY? PLEASE CHECK OUT MY TRAVEL GUIDES ↓
Lofoten Travel Guides
Tromso To Lofoten 12-Day Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary
16 Great Reasons Why Tromso in Summer Is Worth Visiting
What To See In Tromso’s Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden in Summer
Nusfjord Arctic Resort: My Unique Stay in a Norwegian Rorbu in Lofoten
Most Beautiful Lofoten Beaches In Northern Norway
Visiting Norway’s Senja Island In Summer: Best Things To Do
What To Do In Å: Lofoten’s Most Remote Preserved Fishing Village
Lofoten Links: Lodges and Golf in the Arctic Circle
Oslo Travel Guides
Is Oslo Worth Visiting? 16 Great Things To Do In Norway’s Capital
How to Visit the Oslo Fjord Islands in Norway: the Perfect Island Hopping Guide
Damstredet: Prettiest Street in The Heart of Oslo
Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo: Norway’s Most Unusual Tourist Attraction
10 Best Things to Do in Grünerløkka: Oslo’s Quirky Neighbourhood
8 Best Things to See in Tjuvholmen: Oslo’s Modern Art Neighbourhood
Angela Price: is an accomplished travel writer bringing extensive expertise and passion to the world of travel.
With over 40 years of globetrotting adventures under her belt and with a keen eye for unique experiences, she has established herself as an authoritative voice in travel, offering invaluable insights for fellow adventurers seeking to uncover the delights of worldwide destinations.
Her motto is “live life wandering not wondering”. Read more about Angie.
This was a great post and I am convinced to go! What is the absolute minimum number of days you recommend to visit? I am also trying to visit other parts of norway as well. Thanks so much!
Hi Melina I spent 12 days and could have spend a lot longer. Have a read of this and it will help you plan https://whereangiewanders.com/tromso-to-lofoten-the-ultimate-bucket-list-road-trip-itinerary/ would you be coming from the north (tromso) or the South (bodo) - that will make a difference to how much you can do if you are short on time - Bodo is in the Lofoten Islands so you could just do the lower areas / Tromso is higher up. However long you spend you will have a great time.
Hi, we've enjoyed reading your articles about Lofoten. As someone who lives here, we hope you wouldn't mind if we provide you with a local perspective on wild camping in Lofoten.
Until 2020, wild camping was allowed anywhere on the Lofoten islands, within the framework of "allemannsretten," just like in the rest of Norway.
However, in 2020, the six municipalities in Lofoten came together to establish new regional regulations prohibiting camping in certain areas.
Moreover, finding a good place to pitch a tent can be difficult due to the terrain, especially in the western part of Lofoten. The E10 road runs along the shoreline, with the ocean on one side and a mountain face on the other, making it challenging to find a suitable camping spot along the road. And when you do find a suitable spot - where do you go when nature calls?
This is a very pressing issue during the main summer season that runs from June to September. Lofoten is not one of Europe’s hidden gems, as someone mentioned in the comment. The number of tourists coming in the summer is huge, and the islands cannot sustain this amount of people wanting to wild camp.
Thanks for you update on the wild camping situation. I have amended my post accordingly. It is interesting that even though we visited last year and spoke to many of the hoteliers we were staying with that none of them mentioned the new rules that were implemented in 2021 with regards to areas that had been put on the red and orange list. It is sad to read of the mess that some irresponsible people leave behind in this beautiful place. To live in Lofoten seems like a dream however I can understand the frustration you and local people must have when dealing with such an influx of tourists. I can't say I experienced the masses during my visit in July and from the response I received from my readers not many had heard of the Lofoten islands which is why the word hidden gem is used a lot. I guess a time will come when Norway puts a limit on how many tourists are allowed in as some other European countries have done. Let's hope with the right set of rules in place that Lofoten remains a place that future generations can enjoy in all its pristine glory.
I am with you! This Norwegian destination definitely has to be one of Europe’s hidden gems! I followed your trip with keen interest, as Scandinavian countries are high on my bucket list. But I have not heard of the beautiful Lofoten islands until now. The stunning landscape definitely appeals to me. The fact that it's located close to the Arctic Circle intrigues me, especially to experience the amazing midnight sun. Saving this for later and fingers crossed I get to go one day!
I hope you do get to visit the Loftens one day, you will no doubt fall in love with them as I did. They really offer the visitor something quite special and not found anywhere else in the world.
I have discovered a new place to visit, thanks to this post. What a beautiful place! I would love to go there one day.
Northern Norway and especiall the Lofoten Islands have been on my travel wishlist for years. Your post and the pictures reminded me why - because of the spectacular scenic landscapes. Visiting the Viking museum would be a priority for me. And staying in a traditional fishing hut would be nice too.
I hope you make it there one day Natascha, the Viking museum is incredible, as is a stay in a rorbu.
I would have been like all the others, asking where are the Lofoten Islands and what do you do there? But of course, you did a great job of telling us! Norway has been on my bucket list for quite a while, mostly because I would like to see the Northern lights. But it would also seem that there are many benefits to visiting in the summer months. Apparently there are many incredibly beautiful places to see and to explore!!
I am glad I could highlight to you other places to visit in Norway. Most travellers know it for the Northern Lights but in summer it has so much to offer.
Wow, staying in a fishing rorbu seems like such a serene escape, and something I would have never thought of! Thank you so much for sharing, this sounds like an amazing trip 🙂
It was an awesome trip, and a highlight was my rorbu stay - absolutely amazing.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this detailed post, and it fuelled my desire to return to Norway, which I haven't visited since the 70s.
I am glad you found inspiration in this Lofoten post for a return visit to Norway
Just like you had I also have Lofoten in my bucket list and hope to visit this year if possible! I'm sure it's even more beautiful there in real life and I loved all your tips of things to do, super complete, I'll book mark it for a futute trip!
I do hope you get there, it is a very special place and quite unlike anywhere else I have visited.
We always spend our summers in Finland and the last 5 years my plan has been to visit Norway too. Something else always comes up.. ha ha. Lofoten looks stunning and it was THE destination to Finns right before the pandemic. It got so crowded at that point that we decided not to go. But we definitely want to visit there. When I was a kid we did a road trip to Norway every summer but we never went to Lofoten.
I was really interested to hear that it was a very busy place pre-pandemic, I am not sure I would have enjoyed it as much if there had been so many visitors.
I think the first activity on my list would be kayaking in these beautiful waters.
I am impressed by the striking beauty of the picture in this post. I have visited Norther Europe in the Summer and Winter time but never the Lofoten islands. Those fishing villages with mountains so close the coast and the playful clouds formations are a gift for the eyes. These islands must be "The Destination" for Summer Solstice. I would like to visit them sometime soon.
These photos honestly look like something out of a fairy tale. Very magical!
Lofoten islands and indeed all of Norway are on my list. So many opportunities for photography, and I am especially interested in some good hikes. Thanks for the lovely post. Very useful, I am saving it for future reference.
Ohh you made me miss Norway so much!! Beautiful photos and great article. I still havent seen Lofoten but I save this for the next trip!
I would definitely enjoy visiting this region and seeing all the open and raw landscape, trying some of the delicious soup, lobster and cod specialities and being outdoors. I'm in awe of places that stay true to their environment and have amazing wildlife, nature and beautiful landscape to explore, and the Lofoten islands sound just like that.
Hi Noel, Yes, you are right, the Lofotens really are unspoilt and let us hope they remain that way for future generations to enjoy.
The Lofoten Islands in Norway are on my bucket list priority. Watching the midnight sun at 1 am or catching a glimpse of the Aurora borealis in winter is an experience of a lifetime. And I can imagine how exciting it must be staying in one of those fishing rorbuers,and enjoying the stunning views of snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, beaches and wildflowers all while camping on a road trip to Lofoten with a platter of Norwegian seafood. It would be a dream come true for me.
Oh dear, you almost completely missed what would be the most important reason for me to go there - seabirds! Atlantic Puffin are the most numerous but there are also Razorbill, Common Guillemot, Brunnich's Guillemot and Black Guillemot. Other breeding seabirds include Arctic Skua, gulls, Common Tern and Arctic Tern and there are also Common Eider and various waders.
On the other hand, you've mentioned all sorts of things that I wouldn't even think about. It hadn't even occurred to me there would be a golf course - you might guess that I don't play golf.
So when I do get there, it will be with a much broader view of the place than I had before. Thank you.
The birds you mentioned can be found on the Rost islands, which I didn't visit and is why they weren't included in this post dedicated to the Lofoten islands. I have seen puffins in Wales and would have loved to see them here but the Rost islands are a separate remote island from the Lofoten archipelago and very remote only reached on a dedicated cruise. I had hoped to see more seabirds than I saw on my trip as I had heard about the sea eagles that frequented Lofoten but I was told it wasn't the right time of year to spot them. The only seabirds we saw were black guillemot which could be seen and heard nesting in abundance on window ledges, rooftops in fact anywhere possible that was free!
A photo opportunity at every corner! The Lofoten Islands have been on my bucket list for years. One day, I'll get there. And when I do, your article will be my go-to guide. Thanks for the great advice
Glad you enjoyed the Lofoten post
We were sad we missed the Loften Islands in Norway when we visited in the summer. I know this is a place with so many attractions that we need to go back and visit. A road trip is the perfect way to see stunning views and explore the small villages. Even if I am too wimpy to enjoy the cold waters. It would be fun to book accommodation in a traditional fishing rorbuer. We definitely need to get this on a travel plan.
If you can make it back there, I would 100% recommend a visit - it is quite unlike anything else you can imagine.
The landscape is simply stunning! Lofoten Islands is so different to our usual island destinations but one that I would love to explore. Norway has been on my bucket list for ages.
It was my second visit to Norway, the first being on a fjord cruise in the South of Norway, this was even more magical and I feel a third visit might be on the cards in the future to see the Northern Lights!
Hi Angie, Just received your latest news letter, and I must say, you have some great reads on it since the last one. Your latest Norway (Lofoten) post was really nice, the scenery looks amazing (and I do like scenery). How was it coping with 24 hour day light?
It was really exciting to experience light for 24 hours a day and most places we stayed had blackout blinds in the rooms so that guests could get to sleep. It was nice to be able to go for a walk at midnight with the glow of the sunlight!