Discover the incredible islands of Lofoten – world famous for its wild and breathtaking nature. But it is the people, food and the art and culture that make people want to stay longer – and longer.
The Lofoten Islands are draped across the turbulent waters of the Norwegian Sea, far above the Arctic Circle. This rare wilderness outpost offers an untrammelled landscape of majestic mountains, deep fjords, squawking seabirds, long, surf-swept beaches and small, interesting fishing villages.
“The beauty of this place is simply staggering.”
Lonely Planet
Lofoten has achieved the certification Sustainable Destination. Although this does not mean that the destination is sustainable, it does mean that it has made a commitment to work systematically to reduce the negative effects of tourism, while strengthening its positive ripple effects.
If you are seeking unforgettable nature experiences, Lofoten will definitely not let you down. Due to the area’s diverse landscape, you can go hiking, skiing, fishing, ocean rafting, riding or scuba diving. Lofoten is also one of the world’s northernmost sites for surfing.
Lofoten has a strong connection to the Viking Age, and at Lofotr Viking Museum in Borg you can explore how the Vikings used to live in a reconstruction of the largest Viking longhouse ever found from this era. The building is 83 meters long.
Due to the warm Gulf Stream, Lofoten has a much milder climate than other parts of the world at the same latitude. Between late May and mid July you can experience the midnight sun, whilst the northern lights can be viewed from September to mid April.
Fishing has been, and still is, the reason why people have lived here, and the region is known for its many small fishing villages. Stay in a Rorbu – an old fishermen’s cabin – and try eating skrei, the Arctic cod, and stockfish, dried cod.
The rapidly changing weather and magnificent light conditions have inspired artists and drawn them to this area for several decades, which is evident in the many art galleries and photo exhibitions.
Find more inspiration on Lofoten’s official website.
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Things to do | Where to stay | Food and drink | Getting here and around
Attractions in Lofoten
Top outdoor activities in Lofoten
Head out and enjoy Lofoten!
Popular hikes
Check out some of the most beautiful hikes in Lofoten.
Where to stay
From comfy hotels to cosy cabins. Find your home away from home in Lofoten.
Food and drink
From local food gems to high-end restaurants. Get a taste of what Lofoten offers.
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Towards sustainability
The certification Sustainable Destination is a label given to destinations that work systematically to reduce the negative impacts of tourism. In addition to providing visitors with enjoyable experiences, the destination must strive to minimise its impact on local nature, culture and the environment, and support the local community and economy. The municipality and the travel industry shall cooperate closely to assure that the destination is a great place in which to live as well as visit.
Learn more about the Sustainable Destination label
Seasons and climate
Due to the temperate waters of the Gulf Stream, Lofoten has a much milder climate than other parts of the world at the same latitude, such as Alaska and Greenland.
The coastal climate in Lofoten makes the winters mild and the summers relatively cool.
January and February are the coldest months, with an average temperature of -1°C. July and August are warmest with an average temperature of 12°C.
May and June are the driest months, with an average 40 milimetre of rainfall. October is the wettest month. Strong winds can occur in late autumn and winter.
Get the latest weather forecast on yr.no.
Find more information about northern lights in the Lofoten Islands.
In the interest of the environment
Please be considerate of your surroundings by following these simple guidelines. This way, you can be sure that your visit doesn’t diminish other people’s experience.
- Only camp in designated areas.
- Leave no traces.
- Do not create new paths.
- Use the waste bins.
- Use public toilets.
- Respect private property.
- Be considerate in traffic.
- Respect the ban on fires.
- Respect the wildlife.
- Use tour operators.
Read the complete Lofoten code of conduct.
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