A winter visit to Northern Norway is a must for anglers and gourmets alike. The Lofoten fishery is known as the largest cod fishery in the world.
The Arctic cod is one of Norway’s best and most sustainable commodities. Between January and April, the fish migrate from the Barents Sea to the Norwegian coast from Haugesund in the south to Finnmark in the north, to spawn.
Historically, up to half of the cod have returned to the areas around Lofoten, where their parents spawned at least three or four years ago. It has made the Lofoten fishery – “lofotfisket” – the world’s largest seasonal cod fishery. In recent years, however, much of the Arctic cod have migrated even further north, to places like Vesterålen and Senja.
Winter is usually the high season for fishing in the rest of Northern Norway as well. Join a guided fishing trip, or rent your own boat with a local captain.
In winter, you can also go skiing, join a guided ski tour, and visit some of the many museums and charming fishing villages. Maybe you even get to see the northern lights!
You can enjoy freshly caught cod at the many excellent fish restaurants in the north. But don't worry if you can't make it to this part of the country, as chefs in big cities like Oslo, Trondheim, Bergen, Stavanger, and Ålesund also prepare cod in creative and delicate ways.
For the rest of the year, you can enjoy countless varieties of stockfish (dried cod) – a must when you’re visiting the north.
Take part in lofotfisket
If you’re into fishing, you should visit Northern Norway between January and April. This time of year, you’re almost guaranteed to reel in a tasty treat for dinner.
Learn more about the skrei
Northern Norway has several museums and cultural centres where you can learn more about the Lofoten fishery and Norwegian fishing history.
Stay in a rorbu
Staying in a charming “rorbu”, a traditional fisherman’s shack, is an ideal way to get to know the coastal culture of the north.
RambergNusfjord Village & Resort
At the end of a secluded valley stretching toward the sea, the heritage of our historic fishing village blends with every desire of modern adventurers. Here, the spirit of exploration fills the air, inviting you to uncover and enjoy extraordinary moments. In the wild landscapes of Lofoten, Nusfjord offers a refuge of warmth and hospitality.
Book nowSvolværAnker Brygge Rorbu Suites
Anker Brygge Rorbu Suites offers spacious and well-equipped traditional fishermen’s cabins (rorbuer) right on the quay in the heart of Svolvær harbor, just 200 meters from the Svolvær town square. In addition to accommodation, we offer meeting facilities as well as food and drinks at the well-known Restaurant Kjøkkenet & Bryggebaren. We warmly welcome you!
TrænaTræna Rorbuferie
The Træna archipelago is surrounded by the open sea. Træna Rorbuferie is situated on Husøya, the most populated of these islands. Here, amidst magnificent scenic surroundings, you have a golden opportunity to experience the thriving coastal culture of a vibrant island community.
BallstadHemmingodden Lofoten Fishing Lodge - accommodation rorbuer
Hemmingodden is centrally located on Ballstadøy, 200 m from the local grocery store. The lodge gets plenty of sun hours. We focus on fishing with good boats for renting, in addition to charter tours on request. Ballstad is a perfect place for a vacation, with good fishing areas right outside the harbour. You will be able to experience fishing, a fantastic scenery and several other activities.
Top skrei restaurants
You’ll find skrei, stockfish, clipfish and many other varieties of tasty fish year-round at Northern Norway’s best restaurants.
Book nowUtskarpen“To Elise from Marius” – from farm to table
In the village of Utskarpen, between Mo i Rana and Nesna, Elise and Marius established a culinary attraction that is drawing a steady stream of foodies. They offer a dining experience where every dish is made from ingredients fresh from the farm and pasture. They also offer accommodation – charming rooms in a countryside setting.
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.
![images[1]](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/jlrwvnbf/commercial/36b414ab708c5d948c7ac16d3b467bd526dee90b-800x695.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=max&auto=format)
Experience it for yourself!
Cod fishing in Norway
The tail of The Codfather
Plan your skrei adventure
Get inspired
Best holiday offers in Lofoten
Book your next adventure from our partners.
2 Days ・ October - MarchBook nowPhoto tour of Lofoten
Explore Lofoten with a pro photographerVisit Gimsøya, Torvdalshalsen, Haukland, Eggum, Unstad, Henningsvær, the Lofoten Cathedral, Napp, Nusfjord, Flakstad Beach, Hamnøy, Reine, Sakrisøya, and more. Accommodation not included. / Booknordics.comPrice From 2 650 NOK
3 Hours ・ January - OctoberBook nowSilent Trollfjord cruise
Enjoy Lofoten's most stunning fjord!A classic Lofoten adventure with a modern twist, experience Lofoten’s majestic Trollfjord and its white-tailed eagles in silence and comfort on board a panoramic & hybrid-electric boat. / Brim ExplorerPrice From 1 490 NOK
12 Days ・ April - OctoberBook nowThe Arctic circle region
Myths and Marvels in HelgelandOn this journey, you will immerse yourself in the mythical fairy tales of Norway, and become a part of the story of the eternally immortalised trolls in the peculiar mountains around you. / Up NorwayPrice From 53 100 NOK
4 Days ・ November - MarchBook nowLofoten & northern lights
Lofoten archipelago experienceTrip with an aurora-chase guided tour, RIB boat tour, and accommodation in a traditional fisherman's cabin. / 50 Degrees North NordicPrice From 9 498 NOK
8 Days ・ June - SeptemberBook nowBike the Lofoten Islands
Stunning nature and picturesque villagesSelf-guided tour from Svolvær to Reine. Includes accommodation, meals, luggage transfer, a boat transfer, and more. A cycling vacation in Lofoten is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! / Discover NorwayPrice From 19 550 NOK
12 Days ・ April - SeptemberBook nowLofoten Islands, Helgeland & Sognefjord
Extensive Train & Cruise round trip in NorwayEnjoy spectacular scenery as you head south along the Norwegian coast from Lofoten to Bergen. Highlights include the Lofoten archipelago, a fjord cruise on the Sognefjord, and a journey on the world famous Flåm Railway. / Fjord Travel NorwayPrice From 54 360 NOK
11 Days ・ April - SeptemberBook nowNorwegian Havila voyage
Bergen to Tromsø with an overnight stay in LofotenThis Norwegian Coastal Voyage from Bergen stops in at Ålesund, Geirangerfjord, Trondheim, and Saltstraumen, then disembarks for an overnight stay in Lofoten before continuing to Tromsø. / 50 Degrees North NordicPrice From 26 215 NOK
7 Days ・ September - AprilBook nowLofoten Islands and Manshausen
The perfect autumn or spring adventureSteigen and the Lofoten Islands make up the perfect autumn or spring travel adventure for those seeking an authentic immersion in Norwegian culture, nature, architecture, art and design. / Up NorwayPrice From 47 850 NOK
8 Days ・ June - SeptemberBook nowThe best of Lofoten
The land of the midnight sunWe've selected the best hikes and the most iconic viewpoints, as well as some hidden gems on our tour of Norway's most beautiful archipelago. Dramatic mountains, long white beaches, wild seas, and rich wildlife let you experience Norwegian nature at its very best! / Norrøna AdventurePrice From 33 500 NOK
8 Days ・ June - AugustBook nowSenja and Lofoten combined
Independent bus journey on the Arctic RouteAn independent tailor-made tour that takes you to Reine, Svolvær, and Hamn i Senja, with all accommodation, activities, and transport included. Kayaking on Reine Fjord, a Sea Eagle safari, and wildlife adventures are included! / 50 Degrees North NordicPrice From 20 550 NOK
8 Days ・ May - JulyBook nowMidnight sun tour
Group experience in Lofoten and SenjaIncludes sea eagle RIB safari, dining at award-winning Kvitnes Gård, visit to the Viking Museum, coastal cruise with Hurtigruten or Havila, tour to Hamn i Senja, and more. / 50 Degrees North NordicPrice From 49 652 NOK
