LOFOTEN

Wild and wonderful

Discover the incredible islands of Lofoten – world famous for their wild and breathtaking nature.

But it's the people, food, art, and culture that will make you want to stay longer (and even much longer, for many!).

Enjoy some of the most stunning surroundings in the world, but please do so with care. These Arctic landscapes are vulnerable, and your visit has an impact. Thankfully, there is a strong focus on making sure that tourism is as sustainable as possible, for locals and visitors alike.

The Lofoten Islands are spread across the turbulent waters of the Norwegian Sea, above the Arctic Circle. This rare wilderness outpost offers a landscape of majestic mountains, deep fjords, long windswept beaches, and quaint fishing villages.

Lofoten has a strong connection to the Viking Age. Excellent fishing is a key reason why people have been living here for millennia.

Thanks to the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, Lofoten has a much milder climate than other parts of the world at the same latitude.

Find inspiration below, or go directly to:

Travel back in time at the Lofotr Viking Museum where you can learn about the first skilled craftsmen to settle in Lofoten. You can also row a Viking ship!

The Vikings started a tradition that is carried out in much the same way today …

… what is that scent? It’s the smell of stockfish (and money)!

Archeological findings indicate that stockfish, made mostly of dried skrei (the Atlantic cod that migrates to Lofoten to spawn every winter) was first traded by the Vikings some 1,000 years ago.

It's still one of the most important exports of the region.

13 fun facts about stockfish

Is it your lucky day?

A visit to Lofoten isn't complete without a fishing trip! Who will end up catching today’s dinner?

Go fishing

Join a fun fishing trip!

Skrei is the fish that Norway was built on! It led to the settlement of numerous small, cosy fishing villages, including Reine, Ballstad, Stamsund, Kabelvåg and Nusfjord, where you can learn all about the fish.

You'll find local fishermen alongside hipsters, climbers, foodies, and art lovers in the buzzing fishing village of Henningsvær.

Local guide to Henningsvær

For an adventure in truly pristine surroundings, take the ferry to fishing villages and dramatic landscapes in Værøy (pictured) or the 'opera island', Røst.

More fishing villages

… and small islands, all worth a visit!

During the summer, beaches like Hauklandstranden, Rørvika, Rambergstranden, Bunesstranden, and Uttakleiv attract many visitors.

Learn to surf at Unstad Arctic Surf (pictured) or Lofoten Beach Camp in Flakstad.

Or join a wildlife safari to watch other creatures play in the waves!

In the summertime, you can go kayaking with a local guide, or have fun with your friends all day under the midnight sun.

Find new ways to ride through the waves on horseback at Hov Hestegård!

You can even play golf there, all night long, on one of the world's most unique and acclaimed golf courses.

Fun activities

Surfing, kayaking, horse riding, golfing, eagle safaris, and much more!

See all the things you can do in Lofoten

Climb the famous Svolværgeita mountain with a local guide, or try one of the many recommended hikes in the area.

Remember to stay on the trails – don't make new ones!

Remember: the view from less strenuous coastal trails and wild valleys can be equally rewarding!

Go hiking or climbing

… along the sea, or up the mountains. 24 hours a day.

Svolvær, the biggest town in Lofoten, is the perfect base for exploration. It's home to great galleries, hotels, restaurants, shops, and hiking.

From here, you can take a day cruise or a sea eagle safari to the famous Trollfjord (pictured).

Or take the ferry to the 'sunshine island', Skrova.

Explore Svolvær

Combine nature experiences with urban vibes and great food.

Lofoten has a vibrant art scene. In almost every village you'll find a gallery or an artisan, experimenting with …

… colours and shapes inspired by Lofoten.

You can view works by some of the world’s most renowned contemporary artists at the KaviarFactory, and visit many other interesting museums.

Museums and art venues

Explore Lofoten for art and culture lovers!

Go shopping

… shop locally and support small businesses.

Are you a foodie? Then you'll love this!

Enjoy stockfish from Lofoten grilled, baked, cooked, or as a dried snack! And don’t forget to try Lofotlam, traditional lamb from Lofoten.

Both are labelled European protected geographical indication (PGI) for their unique quality.

Ask for cloudberries for dessert!

Stockfish is a favourite ingredient of award-winning local chef Mymint. Check out her guide to the best flavours in Lofoten!

Culinary guide to Lofoten

Where to eat

Here are some of the best restaurants and local food producers.

See all restaurants in Lofoten

Another must is to stay in a rorbu, a fisherman’s cabin by the sea.

Enjoy a relaxing spa or hot sauna. You can find them all over Lofoten!

Unique places to stay

Check in at some of the best hotels and rorbus around the islands.

Get the best offers from our partners Scandic Hotels, Thon Hotels, Classic Norway and De Historiske.

See all hotels in Lofoten See all saunas in Lofoten

A good way to avoid the summer crowds is to travel to Lofoten in the spring or autumn. Or try winter, when magical colours and the aurora borealis can be seen.

From September on, the nights finally get darker again, and the northern lights return!

The Green Diva can be visible until the end of March.

Winter in Lofoten

Lofoten has achieved the certification Sustainable Destination. Although this does not mean that the destination is completely sustainable, it has made a commitment to work systematically to reduce the negative effects of tourism, while strengthening its positive ripple effects.

Visit Lofoten

Camping in Lofoten

Lofoten has become very popular with campers, but there are several places where you are not allowed to pitch a tent or park a camper. Aim for a place with facilities for camping, or one of Lofoten’s many official campsites. Booking in advance is recommended during the high season!

Rules for camping in Lofoten

Vulnerable nature

Arctic nature is extremely vulnerable. Always stick to marked trails, and don't blaze new ones. Use public toilets when possible, and bring any rubbish with you.

In Norway, there is a general ban on open fires, known as bålforbud, from 15 April to 15 September. The lighting of bonfires, campfires, the use of disposable grills and other open flames – in or near forests and uncultivated areas – is then prohibited in order to prevent wildfires.

Read more about the right to roam

Please respect the locals

Lofoten is wonderful, but remember that is is also home to many locals. Don't take photos of people without asking permission, and try to buy local products and services to support the local community. Some roads are narrow and have pockets so cars can pass. Be aware when driving, and don't use the pockets for parking.

In order to fly a drone in Norway, your drone must be registered and you must abide by strict rules as to where you can fly. Flying a drone in a prohibited area can lead to your arrest.

Read the drone flying rules