From the dramatic strait of Raftsundet in the north to the remote fishing village of Å in the south, the Norwegian Scenic Route Lofoten is one of Norway's most breathtaking roads.
Scenic Route Lofoten
A drive along one of the world's most dramatic coastlines
Norwegian Scenic Route Lofoten runs between Å and Raftsundet, with detours to Nusfjord, Vikten, Utakleiv, Unstad, Eggum, Henningsvær and Grunnfør. The route winds along fjords, across narrow headlands and between crashing Atlantic surf and near-vertical mountain walls, with rest stops and art installations carefully designed to give you the best possible experience of this unique coastal landscape.
The full route covers around 230 kilometres, though detours and stops probably will make you spend at least two days, or even a full week, exploring the area.
Driving from Oslo takes 18-20 hours with no stops. We recommend planning 2-3 days for this trip to make the most out of it.
Driving from Trondheim takes approximately 13-14 hours.
The journey begins at the wil Raftsundet strait.
Take off from the mail E10 road, and follow the outer, and less traveles coastal road about 20 kilometres before you stop at the cyclists' shelter at Grunnfør, which offers a full 360-degree panorama view.
Cross the bridge over the shallow Grunnførfjord and take a coffee break at the local roastery in Laukvik, before you head back to the E10.
Here, a wooden boardwalk floats across the headland south of Sildpollen, leading up to a sweeping view over the dramatic Austnesfjord and the quietly beautiful Sildpollneset chapel.
Continue further to the Svolvær, Kabelvåg and Henningsvær. All deserve more than a quick stop!
Between them you will find great restaurants, galleries, the excellent Skrei Museum, and you can go kayaking, climbing, great hikes, on fishing trips and boat trips to the Trollfjord.
Spend a night or three and explore before heading south.
Top to things to do
See some of the top attractions and things to in Svolvær, Kabelvåg and Henningsvær.
Book nowSvolværMagic Ice Lofoten
Discover Lofoten and its tradition – crystal clear in the ice gallery Magic Ice Magic Ice, in the capital of Lofoten, offers you the pleasure of browsing ice art and coastal culture while enjoying a variety of refreshments. Sculptures and installations made of ice, dramatically lit and presented together with sound, music and images, tell the story of nature, traditions and the life of the fisherman in this abundant island realm.
About 25 km on from Svolvær you will reach Gimsøystraumen. The tidal current runs powerfully between the islands. There are toilet facilities here, and a very nice rest area.
Next up along the Scenic Route are three 6.5-metre-tall birdwatching towers at Gårdsvatnet, Skjærpvatnet, and Storeidvatnet give access to some of Norway's finest wetland birdlife, without disturbing them. Bring binoculars, the spring and autumn migration periods are especially spectacular.
The ridge and rest stop at Torvdalshalsen gives the finest overview of Vestvågøya, looking out across farmland towards the very interesting Lofotr Viking Museum at Borg. A long windbreak wall with benches makes this one of the best lunch stops on the route.
About 12 kilometres from Torvdalshalsen, a detour west brings you to Eggum, that faces the open ocean with a rest stop shaped like an amphitheatre.
And don' miss the iconic optical illusion sculpture "The "Head" by Swiss artist Markus Raetz. It changes shape when you move around it!
Speaking of toilets...
Lofoten receives hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, putting pressure on the landscape. The rest stops along this route have toilets to help keep nature unspoiled. Please use them!
Continue your detour for another 15 kilometres to stop by Unstad, Lofoten's surfing capital, where waves roll in from the Atlantic year-round beneath snow-covered peaks.
10 kilometres from Unstad, back on the main route, Hauklandstranda is one of Norway's finest beaches, with white sand and turquoise water framed by steep mountains.
There's also a splendid, modern café and toilet facilities here. Perfect for indoor days!
Back on the main route, the rest stop Skreda, close to Leknes, sits at the water's edge, roughly half way along the full route. The view across the fjord towards Nappstraumen is magnificent.
Note that you are not allowed to camp on the rest stops. Many tourists, like yourself, want to enjoy the nice view, so make quick stops and use the official campings for overnight stays, normal
Things to do
... at Vestvågøy, in the middle of Lofoten.
Book nowGravdalPrivate exclusive boat sightseeing and mountain hike
The trip starts and ends in Lilleeidet Marina. The route can be adapted to the individual group's wishes within the duration of the trip. How much time you want to spend by boat, sightseeing in Nusfjord and hiking is flexible. You decide!
Book nowBallstadHalf-Day Kayak Tour Ballstad
<strong>Sea Kayaking in Ballstad – Paddle Through Arctic Paradise!</strong> Lofoten’s wild beauty isn’t just something to be seen—it’s something to be experienced! Sea kayaking in Ballstad is the ultimate way to connect with this Arctic wonderland, letting you glide through crystal-clear waters, beneath towering fjords, and along rugged coastlines teeming with life. Whether you’re a first-time paddler or a seasoned adventurer, this beginner-friendly journey is a must-do experience that belongs on your bucket list!
Book nowGravdalPrivate exclusive car sightseeing - 6 hours
These trips can be completely customized according to the customer's wishes within the duration of the activity. We have two products available with four and six hours duration for online booking. If you want a different duration, or combination with other activities (boating, mountain hiking or other things), send us an email and we will make a plan together with you!
Book nowGravdalPrivate exclusive boat sightseeing - 6 hours
The boat trip starts and ends in Lilleeidet Marina. The route can be adapted to the individual group's wishes within the duration of the trip. For example, you can choose to go to a place and use the time there for SUP and swimming. You decide!
Book nowGravdalPrivate exclusive boat sightseeing - 3 hours
The boat trip starts and ends in Lilleeidet Marina. The route can be adapted to the individual group's wishes within the duration of the trip. For example, you can choose to go to a place and use the time there for SUP and swimming. You decide!
Book nowGravdalPrivate exclusive car sightseeing - 4 hours
These trips can be completely customized according to the customer's wishes within the duration of the activity. We have two products available with four and six hours duration for online booking. If you want a different duration, or combination with other activities (boating, mountain hiking or other things), send us an email and we will make a plan together with you!
Book nowGravdalPrivate exclusive midnight sun cruise by boat - 2 hours
The boat trip starts and ends in Lilleeidet Marina. The route can be adapted to the individual group's wishes within the duration of the trip. The planned route is illustrated in one of the attached pictures. The trip goes out from Lilleeidet and north in Nappstraumen towards the outer side of Lofoten and Haukland. We are looking for the areas that are best suited for experiencing the magical midnight sun. Welcome to a comfortable and adventurous trip!
Book nowGravdalPrivate Exclusive Boat Sightseeing
Private exclusive sightseeing by boat in the famous Nappstraumen. We visit Strømøya, Ballstad, Nusfjord and the world-famous Haukland beach on the trip. Experience a specially adapted comfortable boat trip to idyllic fishing villages, spectacular nature and bird life in peace and quiet without queues. Pick-up by car is included in the price.
Book nowBøstadLofotr Vikingmuseum
An Impressive Reconstruction of the Largest Longhouse Found from the Viking Age. During the Iron Age, there were 10-15 chieftain seats in Northern Norway, and one of these was located at Borg in Lofoten. This is the only place where the actual chieftain’s farm has been confirmed. Today, you can experience a living Viking Age environment at the museum in Borg, offering wonderful experiences for the whole family. Learn about the Viking Age and test your Viking skills through games and activities. An impressive reconstruction of the largest longhouse ever found from the Viking Age stands tall at Borg, where the original discovery was made. The chieftain and his wife at Borg were wealthy and powerful, and their house was a staggering 83 meters long! Step inside—smell the tar and the fire, hear the sounds of craftsmen at work, and admire the beautiful decorations and architecture. Step inside—and join us on a journey back in time, more than 1,000 years into the past.
Book nowBøstadMidnight Sun kayak tour
Experience the magic of the Arctic summer with our Midnight Sun Kayaking tour in Lofoten. Paddle through calm, crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic mountains and golden light as the sun never sets. Located in the northern part of Lofoten, our tours offer uninterrupted midnight sun views, peaceful evening conditions, and unforgettable scenery. Perfect for beginners and nature lovers, this guided kayaking experience lets you explore sheltered bays, white-sand beaches, small islands and remote coastline while enjoying one of the most unique summer activities in Northern Norway.
Continuing on from Skreda for another 15 kilometres, through the Nappstraumen tunnel (no cycling), Vikten's traditional glassblowing studio is worth the detour. Here, you can see one of Lofoten's many skilled craftsmen at work and take home something handmade.
A few kilometres further, Nusfjord is one of Norway's best-preserved fishing villages, with rorbu cabins, and a great restaurant, spa, galleries and a very cosy café and restaurant.
Back on the main route south, the Brunstranda rest stop offers parking and toilet facilities while you stroll along the white sands of Skagastranda below Flakstad's dramatic ridges.
Check out the cool Lofoten Beach Bar, with great food, camping, (wheelchair-friendly) saunas and surfing lessons!
Just 5 kilometres further, Rambergstranda is equally beautiful, with a narrow path of wooden sleepers that leads down to the white sand.
There´s an excellent camping nearby too, with midnight sun view!
The road sweeps southwest across the wild Moskenesøya for about 19 kilometres before reaching the Akkarvikodden rest stop.
A little further along the route, few viewpoints match Reinehalsen, wih panoramic views over the fishing village of Reine.
Parking is limited at both locations, so please limit the time of your stay.
The fishing village of Reine offers a lot of activities, galleries, and a Visitor Centre for the Lofotodden National Park. Stay in a traditional rorbu and buy local food and healthy "fast food" from the sea at Anitas Seafood.
In nearby Moskenes you find the ferry terminal, linking Lofoten with Bodø several times a day. Remember to reserve space at the ferry during high season, where long queues can be a problem.
Finally, Å marks the end of the scenic route, but not necessarily the end of your journey. The Norwegian Fishing Village Museum brings the history of generations of fishermen to life through original buildings and interiors.
And there are delicious homemade buns in the café!
Things to do
...Flakstad, Moskenes, Reine and Å.
Book nowSørvågenLofoten Planet Boutique Hotel
Discover Lofoten Planet Boutique Hotel – Your Home Away from Home Nestled at the entrance of Lofotodden National Park, you’ll find the perfect place to connect with like-minded travelers, immerse yourself in breathtaking nature, and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Lofoten’s hiking paradise.
Book nowSørvågenKitchen On The Edge Of The World
An exceptional culinary adventure. We invite you to a four-day stay encompassing everything from foraging, fishing, and hiking in a truly unique landscape, to cooking, cocktail, and craft workshops, each evening culminating in world-class banquet meals.
Book nowSørvågenRIB -Safari in the Maelstrom
We set off towards one of the world’s most perilous stretches of sea, infamous and feared by seafarers for thousands of years. Mentioned by Pytheas the Greek over 2000 years ago, and by world famous authors like Jules Verne, Herman Melville and Edgar Allan Poe. They write about the Great Maelstrom, a vortex that dragged anything that came too close down to the bottom of the darkest depths. Boats were smashed to smithereens, huge whales howled in fear as they met a terrible and violent end in the swirling waters of the Maelstrom. There were no limits to people’s imaginations in those days – yet, no smoke without fire, you might ask? We will take you out there so you can see for yourself!
Book nowReineWedding & Couple Photoshoot in Lofoten Norway
Lofoten Weddings is a local wedding and elopement photographer based in the Lofoten Islands, Northern Norway. Kamila specialises in destination weddings, intimate elopements, surprise proposals, couple photoshoots and family photography in scenic outdoor locations across Lofoten. Photography sessions take place in iconic mountain viewpoints, coastal fishing villages and hidden beaches throughout the Lofoten Islands, including Reine, Hamnøy and Sakrisøy.
Book nowReineReine Rorbuer - Classic Norway Hotels
Reine Rorbuer offers a unique experience of staying in traditional, historic fishermen's cabins in one of the most beautiful villages in the world- Reine. The hotel's restaurant Gammelbua serves delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Reine Rorbuer offers activities (sea kayaking and excursions). The hotel and restaurant are open from February to October.
Book nowReineKayaking in beautiful surroundings around Reine
Depending on the weather conditions and level of participants we'll cruise around nearby islands (Reine, Sakrisøy, Hamnøy) or inside the Reinefjord. You will see the Reine harbour, small islands with birds colonies, wild shores and beaches surrounded by majestic mountains.
Book nowReineAnita’s Seafood
Anita's Seafood is a delightful seafood bar and delicacy shop on Sakrisøy, Lofoten. Known for its grab-and-eat concept, the restaurant offers a variety of local seafood dishes, including their famous fish burgers. With a focus on local flavors and ingredients, Anita's Seafood provides a unique culinary experience in the beautiful setting of Lofoten.
Some of the roads can be very narrow. Use the passing places when necessary, and remember that parking in them is prohibited.
Free camping put considerable pressure on Lofoten during the busy summer months. For your comfort and safety, and out of consideration for local communities, please stay overnight at one of the many beautiful campings across the islands
Campings in Lofoten
There are several stunning campings in Lofoten. It's advisable to book beforehand in July and August.
Book nowBallstadReineholmen Motorhome Camp - Ballstad
Park your motorhome on an island built especially for you. You can't get any closer to the sea. And all this within walking distance to beautiful Ballstad with easy access to chalk-white beaches, fishing spots, sherpa stairs, museums, and exciting restaurants.
Nice to know before you go
The 230 km route along the E10 experience heavy car and motorhome traffic during the peak summer season, from July to August 15th.
April, May, June, September and October are excellent months for a road trip, when there's less traffic. Snow and icy roads may occur.
If you plan to drive along the Scenic Route in winter, be aware that conditions can be challenging. The route is recommended only for drivers with experience of winter conditions.
Some of the roads are very narrow. Please use the passing places when necessary, drive considerately, and allow local traffic to pass.
Be aware that the Nappstraum Tunnel is closed at night for maintenance in 2026, so it is necessary to check live traffic updates before setting out.
Camping rules
If you are traveling by motorhome, emptying chemical toilets at standard scenic rest areas is strictly prohibited. You must use the official, designated dump stations located in areas such as Reine, Leknes, and Svolvær.
Rest stops along the Norwegian Scenic Routes are intended for short breaks, not overnight camping.
Lofoten offers many beautiful campsites for overnight stays, and we encourage visitors to use them, both when you travel with a tent and a motorhome.
If you travel with a motorhome, it's advisable to book camping stays ahead during peak season, especially in the areas around Reine, Moskenes, Sørvågen and Å, as parking space is limited.
Help us maintain good relations between visitors and local communities by using designated camping areas, public toilets and public parking whenever possible. Note that free camping is prohibited in many areas.
During the busy season, please allow local traffic to pass.
Rest stops are for short breaks
Also, please help fellow travellers enjoy the same views and make use of the facilities by limiting the length of your stay at popular rest stops. Take your rubbish with you and leave the area clean and undisturbed for those who come after you.
Cycling
The main E10 can be challenging due to heavy summer traffic, and cycling here this time of year is not recommended. County Roads 888 and 815 are quieter alternatives. Bicycles are not permitted inside the Nappstraumen Tunnel, so cyclists must use the local bike ferry between Nusfjord and Ballstad.
Source: Norwegian Scenic Routes and Visit Norway
Getting hungry?
There are plenty of spots to grab a bite!
- Book nowReine
Anita’s Seafood
Anita's Seafood is a delightful seafood bar and delicacy shop on Sakrisøy, Lofoten. Known for its grab-and-eat concept, the restaurant offers a variety of local seafood dishes, including their famous fish burgers. With a focus on local flavors and ingredients, Anita's Seafood provides a unique culinary experience in the beautiful setting of Lofoten.
